asSwat alMaghrib

Public discourse on things that matter to Moroccans is hindered by the fact that formal communication is usually done in Modern Standard Arabic or in French, neither of which is typically a Moroccan's mother tongue. When most Moroccans discuss things that matter to them, it is more often than not in Darija, the Moroccan Arabic dialect. Barely a majority of Moroccans are able to read and write in the official language of Modern Standard Arabic.  Even fewer are entirely comfortable in French, the colonial language used by many of the elites of commerce and government.   

The internet unquestionably represents an underutilized tool of communication for Moroccans to exchange information.  Though most Moroccan web work is in French, the Moroccan use of MSA in written blogs is increasing. A real opportunity exists, however, for real communication in Darija or Amazigh via audio formats such as real time streaming ("webcasts"), stored streaming audio files, or mp3 downloads delivered directly or through RSS feeds ("podcasts"). Moroccans have a lot to say. The tools and links in this lens are intended to help facilitate the conversation.