The caftan, traditional clothing which constitutes a living expression of Moroccan identity and the most eloquent demonstration of the dexterity and ancestral know-how of Moroccan maâllem, amazed a large audience made up of diplomats including the ambassador, permanent representative of the Kingdom to UNESCO, Samir Addahre, artists, designers, international personalities and journalists.
After the Mali parade, which opened the event, the Moroccan caftan in its different expressions took over to the applause and ululations of a completely enthusiastic audience.
The models, dressed by Moroccan designer Nissrine Zaki, took the audience on a journey through time, of traditional clothing which constitutes a national living heritage, transcending eras while preserving its authentic character.
In a statement to MAP, Nissrine Zaki said she was honored to represent Morocco at this UNESCO event. “It’s a very important parade because we are here to defend our heritage and our heritage which is the Moroccan caftan,” she said.
Her collection offers a sublime marriage between modern and ancient caftans, some of which are almost 100 years old, said the stylist, adding that one of the caftans presented to the public during this fashion show is completely woven in gold, and is inherited from generation to generation.
The parade also represents the different regions of the Kingdom with their most beautiful authentic jewelry, continued Nissrine Zaki, adding that this colorful spectacle is a story that is told from start to finish.
“We started from the time of the Merinids, which constitutes the apogee of the Moroccan caftan, to arrive at today, in order to show how Moroccans knew how to protect their heritage and preserve this authentic and traditional beauty which has evolved over time while maintaining its authenticity,” she explained.
For his part, Abderrahim Zemzami, president of the Chamber of Crafts of the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra region, underlined in a statement to MAP that this parade at the Unesco House constitutes the crowning of a series events and meetings organized by the Chamber, particularly among artisans, to raise their awareness of the importance of their role in the preservation of Moroccan heritage.
Today’s parade aims in particular to raise awareness of this heritage and reaffirm that the Moroccan caftan or even the Zellij, Slaoui pottery or the Zemmouri carpet belong to Moroccan heritage and are protected by a certain number of UNESCO conventions. and that Moroccans are mobilized to preserve them in the face of attempts at appropriation by certain States.
Organized from 22 to 24 March, the 2024 edition of UNESCO Africa Week is marked by an eclectic program including exhibitions, workshops for young learners, conferences and debates, artistic events and food tastings. typical Africans.
The opening ceremony of this Week was punctuated by Moroccan music daqqa marrakchia and Reggada in the presence of Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, guest of honor at this event, the Ambassador, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom to UNESCO, Samir Addahre, and HM the King’s Ambassador to Paris, Samira Sitaïl, alongside African ministers, ambassadors and senior officials of the UN organization.