The trip began with a meeting between ADI and Moroccan member, Association Maroc Alzheimer (AMA). Paola and Laura met with AMA’s leadership and board members to exchange perspectives on ADI’s global mission and AMA’s national work supporting people living with dementia and their families. Discussions focused on key priorities ahead and exploration of shared challenges and opportunities. The visit also included a tour of an Alzheimer Centre in Rabat, meetings with staff and neuropsychology doctoral students, and informal exchanges over lunch and dinner, helping to reinforce collaboration and strengthen ties between ADI and its Moroccan member association.
Building on the initial bilateral meetings, the second day focused on the need for a Moroccan National Alzheimer Plan. Roundtable discussions were attended by representatives from other local Alzheimer associations, the World Health Organization and delegates from the Moroccan Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the Ministry of Solidarity, Social Inclusion and Family, who underscored the importance of collaboration between civil society, national and international policy makers. Discussions centred on building unified support for those living with dementia and carers, improving awareness, reducing stigma, and strengthening access to diagnosis, culminating in agreement to develop a clear roadmap towards a National Alzheimer Plan for Morocco.
On the trip, Paola said:
This visit to Morocco was a powerful reminder of the strength and commitment of the Alzheimer movement at national and local level. Meeting with Association Maroc Alzheimer, local associations, and government and World Health Organization colleagues reinforced the importance of working together to build a coordinated response to dementia. ADI stands ready to support Morocco in advancing towards a national dementia plan that reflects international best practice while responding to local realities.
ADI thanks our member in Morocco for their continued engagement and work towards improving the lives of those living with dementia within the country, and looks forward to supporting national stakeholder towards the development of a National Dementia Plan.