Agadir

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Morocco).

The city of Agadir is a well-known Moroccan seaside resort of roughly 950,000 inhabitants, located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The city is growing quickly as many people move here in search of a job in the tourism sector or in fishing. However, they are often disappointed. Families sometimes struggle to care for their children, and in some cases, children are at risk, especially of commercial sexual exploitation or violence on the streets.

Since 2008, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Agadir.

19%
Of Morocco’s population lives on less than $4 a day

Poverty and sex tourism

Although Morocco is clearly not one of Africa's most disadvantaged spots, the beauty of Agadir's beaches is contrasted by the crippling poverty that continues to affect thousands in the city itself and in the suburbs. Nearly 19% of Morocco’s population lives on less than $4 a day. Tourism - generally associated with economic growth - sometimes poses a threat to a country's most vulnerable groups of population. As tourism has increased, commercial sexual exploitation has been on the rise in Agadir. Children need support so that they can continue to live with their families, go to school and be safe from exploitation.

62%
Of the girls in domestic service are 13-15 years old

Child labour and exploitation

The number of young female domestic workers (‘petite bonnes’) amounts to roughly 70,000 all over Morocco. Domestic labour remains predominantly an urban phenomenon. A study showed that 62% of the girls in domestic service were aged between 13 and 15 years old and that 38% were between 8 and 12 years old. This is one example of the way that the fundamental rights of children are violated. Many children who engage in child labour do not go to school. Investing in girls' education, however, reduces inequalities and strengthens the economy. Reducing the gender gap is also crucial in the fight against poverty.

Your support makes a difference for children in Agadir

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
90
Adults and children
Are supported in the community
120
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
70
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Children in our care are having fun at a garden celebration (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Morocco).

How your support helps in Agadir

Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.