DZWatch Exclusive: Accusations of cultural and sporting appropriation continue to plague relations in the Maghreb, with Algeria alleging a pattern of systematic theft by Morocco. What started as claims of pilfered heritage has now, according to Algerian officials, extended to attempts to manipulate African sporting competitions.
Algeria’s Minister of Communication, Dr. Zouheir Bouamama, recently condemned what he described as “despicable” attempts to steal football victories, stating that such actions violate shared global values. His comments highlight the growing tension surrounding these accusations.
A History of Alleged Appropriation: This isn’t the first time Morocco has been accused of cultural theft. Algeria has long claimed that its traditional clothing, particularly styles from western Algeria, have been misrepresented as Moroccan heritage in international campaigns. Similarly, popular Algerian cuisine has allegedly been falsely claimed as Moroccan.
These accusations extend beyond tangible items. Algerian folk art, dances, naming conventions, and even social customs have reportedly been branded as “Moroccan heritage” at international events. While cultural exchange and shared traditions exist, Algeria insists that Morocco is actively erasing the true origins of these elements and fabricating alternative narratives.
A Policy, Not an Error: The core issue, according to critics, isn’t mere cultural similarity but rather official endorsement. These alleged acts of appropriation are said to be carried out by institutions, supported by media coverage, and promoted through external strategies, transforming individual instances into a systematic policy.
The accusations now extend to the realm of sports, with allegations of biased refereeing and controversial decisions aimed at influencing the outcome of African football tournaments. This, critics say, represents a continuation of the same logic applied to culture and heritage – an attempt to build identity through appropriation. The implications of these allegations are far-reaching, potentially undermining trust and fair play within African sports.
