Marrakech (May 22, 2025) – The High Atlas Foundation would like to wish the National Initiative for Human Development a very happy 20th year anniversary. It is our most sincere hope that NIHD remains its great national guide and support for community action for generations to come.

The term sustainable development was first coined in 1987 by a United Nations report that defined it as not consuming the natural resources of today to the extent that it compromises humanity’s future. When His Majesty King Mohammed VI announced the NIHD on the 18th of May 2005, he explained that sustainable development can only be achieved through “a strong mobilization in all directions,” including “social, economic, educational, cultural, and ecological aspects,” as well as “political dimensions.” The king brought forward that it must rest upon integrated public policies and public participation.

His Majesty’s explanation of sustainable development is visionary and operational. Not only has it informed the NIHD program and its enabling of countless community projects across the kingdom, but it also has–through its progressive conceptual foundation–informed the national strategic plans across ministries and has provided the central framework for the sustainable development of the nation.

We must also remind ourselves that for years prior to the King of Morocco launching NIHD and for years following, he travelled the kingdom constantly, being with its people in all parts, and understanding needs in all places. We too must internalize his example to implement and achieve sustainable development based on public participation. It requires constant engagement with the people we intend to serve.

The most distant municipalities from provincial capitals, the furthest villages from municipal centers–these places are where we need to be, as well as along locations to these points. The realisation of the NIHD potential comes when community participation is inclusive, in all areas, and for time to come.

Congratulations, NIHD.

الله يبارك فعمر سيدي