History of M'Goun Geopark
From the founding idea in 2000 to the UNESCO label in 2014, trace the remarkable history of the first African geopark.
Creation Idea
Emergence of the idea of creating M'Goun Geopark, driven by local actors and researchers aware of the exceptional geological richness of the Central High Atlas.
Framework Convention
Signing of the framework convention between the Regional Council, the Provincial Council of Azilal, the Grouping of Municipalities and the Association for the Protection of Geological Heritage.
Creation of AGM
Creation of the M'Goun Geopark Association (AGM), the project's lead organization and central actor in its implementation and management.
GGN Expert Evaluation
Evaluation of the Geopark's constitution project by experts from the Global Geoparks Network (GGN). Field expertise mission to validate the application file.
GGN Admission / UNESCO Label
Admission of M'Goun Geopark to the Global Geoparks Network (GGN) supported by UNESCO at the 6th international conference. First geopark in Africa and the Arab world.
1st Revalidation
1st positive revalidation of M'Goun Geopark by UNESCO. Maintenance of the UNESCO Global Geopark label for the period 2019–2022. Recognition of progress made.
2nd Revalidation
2nd positive revalidation of M'Goun Geopark by UNESCO. Confirmation of the excellence of the geopark's management, conservation and sustainable development.
10th International UNESCO Geoparks Conference
Organisation of the 10th International UNESCO Global Geoparks Conference in September 2023. A major event that brought together experts, researchers and geopark managers from around the world, strengthening the international influence of M'Goun Geopark.
Next Revalidation
3rd UNESCO revalidation scheduled for summer 2026. M'Goun Geopark is actively preparing for this milestone with a comprehensive review of its activities and achievements.
UNESCO Certificates & Attestations
The official labelling and revalidation certificates of M'Goun Geopark by UNESCO.
Labelling Certificate 2014
Certificate of Membership to the Global Geoparks Network – Paris, September 2014
Key Achievements
3 UNESCO Revalidations
Continuous maintenance of the UNESCO label since 2014, with positive evaluations in 2018 and 2022.
22 Protected Geosites
Inventory, protection and promotion of 22 geosites of international importance.
11 Visitor Centers
Creation of 11 visitor centers and museums to welcome visitors and promote geological education.
19 International Partnerships
Establishment of 19 partnerships with UNESCO geoparks worldwide for knowledge sharing.
Wide Educational Programs
Development of wide educational programs for local schools and universities, with regular workshops.
Geotourism Promotion
Creation of geotourism circuits, training of local guides and development of reception infrastructure.