"Sand of Merzouga" ignites debate on customary ownership and local development

The area known as "Sand of Merzouga" has become the focal point of a heated debate concerning customary land ownership and its implications for local development in Morocco. The dispute pits residents asserting centuries-old claims against public sector entities asserting ownership.

Dust rises from the ground, and the phrase "leave" mixes with women's cheers. In the distance, the dunes of "Erg Chebbi" stand tall, witnessing a new battle. This is not a fight with weapons, but one of papers and records, a conflict between a community stating "this is our land since centuries" and a public sector entity claiming "most of it is ours."

Since the Wednesday before last, the movements of the local population have not ceased. The core of the conflict lies in the differing claims over land use and ownership, highlighting a tension between traditional community rights and modern administrative claims. This situation raises critical questions about how such disputes are resolved and their impact on the socio-economic fabric of the region.