Two new structures aimed at youth are being planning for the Sidi Moumen and Nassim districts of Casablanca for the end of 2006 according to the Moroccan economics newspaper, <i>L’Economiste</i>.
The objective is to reduce delinquency in these disadvantages areas by half, according to Mohamed M’jid, President of the Moroccan Foundation for Youth Initiative and Development. The center is planned to have facilities for sports, counselling and early learning.
The total investment is estimated at 1.2 million Moroccan dinars and is largely funded by the double Olympic medallist Hicham El Guerrouj. The program was officially launched 26 November to mark the occasion of the international day for the elimination of poverty.
Moroccan minister of social development, Abderrahim Harouchi, said poverty is not necessarily lack of money, but lack of facilities and the opportunity for self-help. He said these centers will do a tremendous amount to reduce all types of poverty in Casablanca.
