During the 2025 edition of the Rabat International Book and Publishing Fair, the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication paid tribute to Mohamed Benaissa, Morocco’s former Minister of Culture and a pioneering figure in the cultural landscape of the country. This special recognition came as part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to honor individuals who have played a transformative role in shaping Morocco’s cultural identity.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication M. Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, the Secretary General of the Department of Culture Mr. Salah-eddine Abkari paid heartfelt tribute to Mohamed Benaissa. He expressed deep appreciation for Benaissa’s lasting contributions, stating: “With his passing, Morocco has lost a shining light in the field of diplomacy. Mohamed Benaissa was a prominent figure in international media organizations and had earned the trust of His Majesty through the excellence of his work, both nationally and on the international stage.”

Mr. Abkari also highlighted Benaissa’s seriousness and unwavering dedication to promoting culture in Morocco, noting that “he remained fully committed to the cultural influence of our country until his very last days.” He further emphasized that Benaissa’s legacy in governance continues to inspire today. “He carried out his duties with remarkable devotion, notably through the creation of the International Cultural Moussem of Asilah; an influential forum that brought together key figures from across the world.”

The event also brought together prominent cultural figures, including former Minister of Culture Mohamed Achaari, who reflected on Benaissa’s boldness and foresight. “We owe him the very foundation of this book fair,” Achaari remarked. “At a time when Morocco was producing fewer than ten novels and books a year, Benaissa dared to envision an international book fair. He was always looking ahead, never back.” Achaari emphasized that Benaissa was not only a visionary but also a man of action, driven by the conviction that books should be present everywhere in Moroccan society. In addition to his role in the national book fair, Benaissa is widely known for his groundbreaking work in the city of Asilah, specifically the visual arts development, including a recent exhibition of artistic prints with rich stories behind them.

Hatem Battioui, Secretary General of the Asilah Forum and a longtime companion of Benaissa, spoke of the human side of the man being honored. “Before anything else, Benaissa is a deeply humane individual. What he did for Asilah over the last 40 years was, above all, an act of service to people. His cultural and humanitarian values have always gone hand in hand.” Benaissa also placed a strong emphasis on children, believing that they are the cornerstone of the future. He insisted on creating an environment where children could grow up in a nurturing and culturally rich space. One of the creative initiatives born from this vision was the decoration of Asilah with vibrant murals, turning the town into a living gallery.

Throughout his journey, Benaissa served his hometown of Asilah with unwavering dedication and consistent royal support, becoming a model of how local development rooted in culture can leave a lasting impact.

The tribute to Mohamed Benaissa at the Rabat Book Fair was more than a ceremonial gesture it was a celebration of a lifetime devoted to culture, literature, and humanity. His work continues to inspire future generations, reminding us that with vision and perseverance, it is possible to transform communities and elevate a nation’s cultural standing on the world stage.