On August 14, 1979, Morocco took a significant step in the consolidation of its territorial integrity by formally integrating the province of Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab, located in the southern part of the country. This date is commemorated annually as a national milestone, reflecting the completion of Morocco's recovery of its southern provinces after the end of Spanish colonial presence in the region.
The integration followed the Green March of 1975 and the subsequent Madrid Accords, which led to the transfer of the Sahara territory to Moroccan and Mauritanian administration. In 1979, Mauritania relinquished its claims to the Tiris al-Gharbia region, and Morocco assumed full control, solidifying its presence in the area. The province of Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab, with its capital Dakhla, became a key administrative unit.
Today, the anniversary is marked by official ceremonies and cultural events, highlighting the development and investment in the region. The Moroccan government emphasizes the economic growth and infrastructure projects in Dakhla, including the Dakhla Atlantic Port, which is part of a broader strategy to boost the region's economy and integrate it fully into the national fabric.
The international community's stance on the Western Sahara issue remains divided, with the United Nations continuing to seek a political solution. However, for Morocco, August 14, 1979, remains a cornerstone of its national narrative, symbolizing the unity and territorial integrity of the kingdom.
