Morocco's social inclusion model sets it apart in Africa with 87% health coverage
via Le Matin5 min read
Morocco stands out in Africa for its high rate of formal social protection, with 87% of its population benefiting from health coverage in 2024. This figure is significantly higher than the African average of 19% and comparable to Eastern European countries. This achievement is attributed to two decades of deliberate reforms, initiated under the leadership of King Mohammed VI and supported by Finactu consulting firm. The firm's report highlights Morocco as a "laboratory" for social protection, offering lessons for the entire continent. The journey began in 2005 with the implementation of mandatory health insurance for private sector employees and civil servants. A key paradigm shift occurred in 2012 with the extension of the Medical Assistance Scheme to disadvantaged populations. A major acceleration came with the Royal Speech of July 29, 2020, leading to 3.7 million beneficiaries of the Medical Assistance Scheme transitioning to mandatory health insurance by December 2022, joined by self-employed workers. Including dependents, nearly 10 million people were integrated into the contributory system, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 25 million by 2024. Morocco's model employs a two-tiered architecture: a classic contributory mechanism for those who can afford it, and AMO Tadamon, a solidarity-based financing system fully covered by the state for low-income individuals. This latter mechanism marks a departure from historical African approaches that often excluded the
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Moroccan talent Brahim Rabbaj, 17, has participated in recent first-team training sessions at Chelsea under the direction of Xabi Alonso. Images shared on social media show Rabbaj training alongside senior players. While this integration does not guarantee a permanent promotion, it signals strong confidence from the club's technical staff and sporting management. Born in January 2009, Rabbaj is considered one of Chelsea's most promising academy players, having joined from Crystal Palace in 2021. He can play as an attacking midfielder or on the wings. Rabbaj was also a key player for the Moroccan national team, contributing to the Atlas Cubs' victory in the U17 Africa Cup of Nations in 2025, where his performances solidified his status as a major talent in Moroccan football. His progress at Chelsea is being closely watched by both the English club and other European teams.
FC Barcelona has reached an agreement with 17-year-old Moroccan midfielder Mahdi El Maimouni for his integration into the club's youth category. According to a statement released by Bar莽a on its social networks, El Maimouni will initially join the Catalan club's youth teams. The move is part of FC Barcelona's strategy to identify and attract young talents with high potential internationally to strengthen its training center. Depending on his development and performance, there is a prospect for him to join Bar莽a Atl猫tic, the reserve team.
Galatasaray is intensifying its efforts to sign Brahim D铆az, making him a priority to strengthen their offensive line. Coach Okan Buruk seeks a creative player for multiple attacking positions, a role D铆az, currently with Real Madrid until June 2027 and valued at 35 million euros, fits well. D铆az, 26, is reportedly looking for a more significant role and increased playing time due to intense competition at Real Madrid. Galatasaray aims to offer him a key technical leadership position and a guaranteed starting spot. A meeting between the clubs' managements is anticipated soon. Meanwhile, Liverpool is reportedly interested in another Moroccan international, Neil El Aynaoui. The 25-year-old midfielder, who joined AS Roma in 2025 from RC Lens, had a strong season in Serie A and performed well at the 2026 World Cup. His ball-winning ability, passing quality, and high work rate have made him a sought-after player. Liverpool's Arne Slot sees El Aynaoui as an ideal fit to add intensity and control to the Reds' midfield. The English club has reportedly initiated contact with the player's representatives to explore a potential transfer. Valued at over 30 million euros by Roma, El Aynaoui is also being monitored by Manchester United, setting up a potential rivalry between the two Premier League giants for his signature.