Moroccan NGO Empowers Single Mothers with Radio Tech Training Amid Pandemic Struggles

"Being a single mother in Morocco is hard because we are really marginalized and discriminated against," says Aïcha*, 30, to DW Akademie. "It’s even worse since the pandemic and many of us have lost our low-paying jobs." Thanks to a training program offered by "100% Moms" - a Moroccan non-profit organization (NGO) that promotes the legal rights of single women and single mothers - many women living in the same situation as Aïcha are regaining hope.

The thirtysomething joined the NGO last year. She was introduced to audio and video editing and also received journalism training. "We know that technicians are usually men, so I wondered why I shouldn’t become a technician myself," she says. Fatima* also benefited from the training program. Long involved in the "Mothers on Air" community radio project, she was eager to acquire more skills. "The program helped me become financially independent and work in a field I really love," she says.

Fatima was afraid of still being marginalized, weak and stigmatized because in Morocco, sex outside of marriage is illegal and can result in severe penalties. Single mothers often lose their family ties and jobs. "I was afraid of still being marginalized, weak and stigmatized. But I’ve become stronger since joining ’100% Moms’ and I’ve gained a new perspective," she said. She says she now looks to the future and thinks about her child’s future. "I want to make sure he leads a dignified and independent life and that I can shape my own future," she added.

*Pseudonyms