Africa-Press. People are used to seeing jet skis cutting through the sea under the blazing summer sun as a source of fun and entertainment. But young Moroccan Sofiane Akhizoun broke that stereotype, turning his jet ski into an effective rescue tool amid the raging floods that swept parts of northern Morocco.
In a scene embodying Morocco’s spirit of “fazaa” (spontaneous solidarity), the Kenitra native set off on his jet ski, traveling long distances to the city of Ksar El Kebir and nearby areas in response to distress calls from residents trapped by floodwaters inside their homes and in isolated villages.
Sofiane moved on his jet ski between several hotspots, including Ksar El Kebir, the “Dar El Kdari” area, “Tghari,” “El Maqran,” and “Souk El Ahad.”
He said the spark for his initiative came from the online world: “I was following videos circulating on social media and saw the extent of the suffering of people trapped by the floods. I couldn’t remain a bystander, so I immediately decided to head to the affected areas on my jet ski.”
His decision was not a reckless adventure, but driven by an urgent desire to use his skill to save lives in places that traditional rescue vehicles could not reach, because of high water levels and narrow routes in flooded villages.
Moving stories
At every stop, Sofiane faced difficult conditions on the ground, but one experience left a deep mark on him.
He recalls with emotion the moments he spent in the village of “Dar El Kdari” in the north, where he confronted one of the hardest situations during his volunteer operations.
He tells a moving story of a blind man trapped amid the flood. Reaching him was dangerous, and fear mixed with hope—but he managed, “by God’s grace,” to bring him to safety.
Experience in service of humanity
Sofiane says his long experience with jet skiing was the decisive factor in making his mission successful: “That’s why I considered it a very effective way to maneuver through floodwaters and reach stranded people.”
Although it was an individual effort, Sofiane’s initiative was not random. He made sure his movements were lawful and fully coordinated with local authorities.
He said his interventions were carried out in close cooperation with civil protection teams and the Royal Gendarmerie, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of evacuation operations.
Broad public solidarity
Sofiane’s bravery was met with widespread praise and a warm استقبال from residents of Ksar El Kebir and surrounding areas. He expressed pride in the solidarity he felt among Moroccans, who supported and encouraged him as soon as he arrived.
He concluded his remarks with an open message, saying his jet ski is now “in the service of Moroccans” and available for any humanitarian call.
He also urged young people who want to volunteer during such disasters to coordinate with the relevant authorities to avoid putting their own lives—or others’ lives—at risk, so their intervention can truly support official rescue teams.
