HIBAPRESS – Rabat
A group of Moroccan citizens residing in Senegal are now barred from leaving their homes due to the escalation of racist and hostile rhetoric against them, this is because of the repercussions of the events that followed the final of the African Cup of Nations, which brought together the "Atlas Lions" and the "Lions of Teranga".
In this context, the gathering of Moroccan doctors in Senegal and the Association of Moroccan Students in Senegal called on members of the Moroccan community to be extremely vigilant, against the backdrop of escalating hostile messages and threats that were circulated on social media networks after the African Cup of Nations final that brought together Morocco and Senegal. The statement, which HIBAPRESS reviewed, explained that these incitement calls targeted Moroccans residing in Senegal, which necessitated drawing attention to the seriousness of the situation and the need to take precautionary measures to avoid any escalation or incidents that may affect the physical safety of individuals. In this context, the two bodies called on Moroccans residing in Senegal, especially students, doctoral students, and doctors, to restrict their movements as much as possible and stay in their homes until the situation stabilizes, within the framework of a preventive approach aimed at avoiding any potential risks. The same statement announced an exceptional suspension of studies on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, with the suspension of activities of Moroccan students and doctors in Senegal, given the sensitivity of the circumstances and the keenness to ensure the safety of community members. The gathering and the association affirmed that this decision comes in the context of avoiding the circulation or promotion of content that incites hatred and violence, which is promoted by some digital platforms, while at the same time emphasizing adherence to the fraternal and historical relations that unite Morocco and Senegal. The statement concluded with a call for calm, self-control, and responsibility from everyone, while emphasizing the commitment to the values of coexistence and social peace. A student source revealed to HIBAPRESS that Moroccans have been suffering in Senegal since the African Cup of Nations final, pointing out that they are no longer able to leave the places where they live due to the hostile actions that have occurred since last Sunday, and in light of the escalating hostile rhetoric. The same source explained that Moroccan students, in particular, are unable to leave the places where they live to purchase daily necessities, including food, which is purchased by Senegalese citizens who work as guards in the residential institutions of students, and then brought to the Moroccans. According to what was stated by one of the students who contacted HIBAPRESS, a Lebanese student studying in Dakar was stabbed and had his belongings stolen by Senegalese citizens, who believed he was Moroccan.
