Salima Ziani

Salima Ziani (سليمة الزياني) also known as Silya is a Moroccan singer specialized in Rifi folk culture. She was born and grew up in the Afzar neighborhood of Al Hoceima. She later moved to Imzouren; she has roots in a tribe there. She is the youngest of six siblings: four sisters and two brothers.

Studies

She enrolled at Mohammed First University in Oujda, majoring in Amazigh studies.

Music

Ziani specializes in izran, a traditional form of poetry performed by women, popular throughout the Rif.

Political activism

Ziani is quoted in an article by Ali Jaouate in al-Aoual saying: "I try, despite the difficulties in this patriarchal society, to constantly establish myself as well as my presence in the Hirak, so that the Rifi woman is present."

At 23 years old, she was arrested after the February 20 Al Hoceima protests, part of the Hirak of the Rif. On the July 23, 2017—the 18th anniversary of King Muhammad VI's ascension to the throne—the Moroccan monarch announced the royal pardon of Salima Ziani. She was released on July 29, 2017.