Moroccan children will be part of the scheme ©IJF

The Moroccan Royal Federation of Judo and Assimilated Martial Arts has launched plans to increase the popularity of judo in the country's child welfare institutions.

An open day was held in Casablanca with this plan in mind, which was attended by senior officials and other guests.

Aspiring judoka were enrolled and 200 judogis were donated by the Federation.

These will be used by children both at the Casablanca institution and in the surrounding neighbourhood.

Young Moroccan girls taking part in the programme ©IJF
Young Moroccan girls taking part in the programme ©IJF

Similar projects will now take place in other cities across Morocco, including Marrakesh, Meknes, Rabat, Oujda and Laayoune.

The scheme has been highlighted on the website of the world governing body, the International Judo Federation.

Morocco sent three judoka to compete at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

Between November 11 and 12,  the Federation will also organise the Open World Championship in Marrakesh.