Imzouren

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Morocco).

Imzouren is located in northern Morocco in the province of Al Hoceima. The province has a population of approximately 400,000. Families in the region make a living from fishing, farming or working in tourism. However, this northern region has historically been one of the poorest in the country, with up to 60% of inhabitants deprived of basic needs such as adequate housing.

Since 1988, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Imzouren.

1,7 Million
Young people are not in education or employment

Young people need opportunities

The unemployment rate among young people aged 15 to 24 is relatively high. Of the 6 million young people aged 15 to 24, the number of those who neither are in education, nor in employment, nor in vocational training – commonly known as NEETs – has increased to 1.7 million in 2019. Young people are key players in economic and social development, so promoting their participation is crucial. To reduce gender inequality, it is important to ensure that young women in particular have access to training and employment. Currently, the unemployment rate of those who have completed vocational education and training is higher for women (36.5%) than for men (19.3%).

27,000
Single mothers in 2018

Single mothers need support

Although Morocco has recently improved access to contraception and reduced maternal and infant mortality, women still have difficulties asserting their rights over their bodies. Single mothers continue to face difficulties in some parts of society. In 2018, the World Health Organisation recorded 27,000 single mothers who had become pregnant unintentionally in Morocco. These mothers and children need additional support to stay together.

Your support makes a difference for children in Imzouren

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
40
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
10
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Children participating in a training to improve their digital skills. SOS Children’s Villages cooperates with education authorities, schools and community organizations. Together they ensure free and equitable access to quality education that equips children with values and skills (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Morocco).

How your support helps in Imzouren

Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.