In an unprecedented initiative highlighting the strengthening of human and economic ties between Morocco and Canada, Aya Gold & Silver Inc. (TSX: AYA; OTCQX: AYASF) announced its support for the “Karibous du Sahara” team, composed of sisters Asmaa and Zineb Hammoudi, for the 35th edition of the Rallye Aïcha des Gazelles du Maroc, taking place from April 1 to 11, 2026, with the finish line on Essaouira beach.
In collaboration with the Canadian Embassy in Morocco, this initiative marks a historic first: the participation of a Canada-Morocco team in this world-unique, all-female competition, which celebrates courage, perseverance, and traditional navigation—without GPS, relying solely on maps and a compass.
A Bridge Between Two Continents
The Hammoudi sisters, originally from Morocco but living on two continents—Asmaa in Canada and Zineb in Morocco—will proudly carry the colors of both their homelands. Through their participation, they exemplify the strength of the Canada-Morocco bond, founded on cooperation, diversity, and boldness.
“The name ‘Karibous du Sahara’ perfectly reflects their dual identity: a Moroccan foundation paired with a North American spirit, combining resilience and solidarity,” said Benoit La Salle, President and CEO of Aya Gold & Silver Inc.
“We are proud to support this human adventure, which mirrors our company philosophy: building bridges between cultures, sharing expertise, and promoting sustainable development based on responsibility and performance,” he added.
A Strong Symbol of Female and Economic Diplomacy
Present at the event, Her Excellency Ms. Isabelle Valois, Canadian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco, praised this meaningful initiative: “The Karibous du Sahara embody fraternity, cooperation, and equal opportunity. Their journey illustrates the sincere friendship and complementarity between our two nations, united by shared values of innovation, openness, and respect.”
Ms. Valois also highlighted Canada’s growing role in Morocco, particularly in the mining, energy, aerospace, and education sectors, where the two countries are developing promising synergies.
A Human and Inspiring Adventure
By supporting this team, Aya Gold & Silver Inc. goes beyond traditional sports sponsorship. Already deeply established in Morocco through its mining operations, the company reaffirms its commitment to human values, inclusion, and the empowerment of women in traditionally male-dominated sectors.
Alongside Aya Gold & Silver, Mx2 Mining and Falcon Energy Materials will also support the Karibous du Sahara throughout their journey as associate partners.
Their progress will be shared in real time on the social media platforms of Aya Gold & Silver Inc. as well as those of the Canadian Embassy in Morocco and Mauritania, allowing the public to follow this solidarity-driven adventure through the Moroccan desert.
An Adventure Beyond Sport
More than a mechanical or geographic challenge, this participation symbolizes the coming together of two cultures, the promotion of women in leadership, and the spirit of cooperation between Morocco and Canada, based on innovation, sustainability, and mutual trust.
By supporting the Karibous du Sahara, Aya Gold & Silver Inc. and the Canadian Embassy jointly celebrate the power of self-surpassing, the strength of bilateral partnership, and the beauty of the Moroccan desert as a space of unity and discovery.
Editorial team/le7tv