Geological data has become strategic infrastructure for resource assessment, investment negotiation, and economic sovereignty. Remotely hosted big data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms are increasingly promoted for geoscience in the Global South, particularly Africa. Whether such platforms are genuinely geopolitically unaligned, and how this can be verified, has direct implications for scientific autonomy and data sovereignty. Using Deep-time Digital Earth (DDE) and GeoGPT as a critical case, this paper examines whether claims of geopolitical non-alignment can be independently verified. DDE was suspended by its founding body, the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS), in early 2025, yet its non-alignment claims have continued. Drawing on UNESCO Open Science and AI Ethics frameworks, the paper assesses three criteria: governance independence, data and software openness, and AI transparency. The analysis reveals a distinction between user-interface accessibility and core technical verifiability. Core DDE/GeoGPT software remains proprietary, and the platform and models diverge from definitions of ‘openness’ and ‘digital public goods’ established by UN-backed frameworks, and the AI Ethics Recommendations from UNESCO. The documentary record also shows governance and funding concentrated in a single national jurisdiction, including links between DDE collaboration targets and China’s Belt and Road Initiative, a 2026 agreement with the mining investment department of the China-Africa Development Fund, and advisory structures that include individuals with documented affiliations to the national resource-extraction sector. Combined, their significance lies in the gap they create between the platform's claims and what can be independently verified. AI governance documentation discloses filtering of content deemed politically sensitive; in one documented instance, a response citing peer-reviewed research on state censorship was replaced by a refusal. The criteria and scope of this filtering are not fully disclosed, leaving it un-auditable. The paper concludes that it is currently not possible to verify claims of non-alignment using this framework; DDE/GeoGPT is best characterised as what we term a state-anchored international platform: globally participatory, but dependent on a single national jurisdiction. The criteria provide a transferable test for comparable claims and highlight the importance of calibrated engagement with external platforms, and use of open-source and sovereign alternatives where privacy or geological data sovereignty is at stake.

The Central Part of the Saghro massif (CPSM), located in the Eastern Anti-Atlas, is characterized by a significant dyke swarm. These dykes remain insufficiently characterized from a geophysical perspective. The aim of this study is to apply a geophysical approach based on the ground magnetic method in order to better understanding the CPSM dyke swarm, as well as their host rocks. To achieve this objective, the magnetic data were subjected to a series of processing operations, including various filters and transformations. The qualitative analysis of the pole-reduced data reveals a strong correlation between the observed magnetic anomalies and the distribution of outcropping dykes in the metasedimentary basement of the Saghro Group and the volcano-sedimentary series of the Ouarzazate Supergroup. These anomalies are manifested by variations in magnetic intensity that follow the orientation of the dyke swarm mapped on surface, confirming their distinct magnetic signature. Complementary analysis of the magnetic data identified magnetic lineaments consistent with the surface mapped dykes. These lineaments appear as elongated anomalies reflecting the presence of continuous magnetic structures in the subsurface. In addition, the estimated depths of anomalous sources, obtained by Euler deconvolution from ground magnetic data, reveal values of up to 1000 m. Complementing the qualitative data analysis, a quantitative interpretation using 2D and 3D modeling was applied to the high-amplitude anomalies associated with the dyke's zones. The results obtained indicate that dykes correspond to sub-vertical structures, deeply rooted beyond 3 km.

The study of dyke swarms is crucial for understanding the processes of magma intrusion and the tectonic environments that influence volcanic activity. Dyke swarms are essential records of tectonic and magmatic events, offering insights into magma ascent, chamber dynamics, and stress conditions during emplacement. In this context, the dyke swarm of the central part of the Saghro Massif (Eastern Anti-Atlas) is investigated for the first time, using structural aspects of the dykes and paleo stress inversion to constrain magma overpressure, the depth of magma reservoir, the state of stress during emplacement, and the tectonic regime responsible for emplacement. We selected seventy-eight mafic and intermediate dykes in the swarm of the Central Part of the Saghro Massif (CPSM), characterized by different orientations N-S to NNE-SSW, NE-SW, E-W and NW-SE. In addition, the size distribution of thicknesses and lengths follows a power-law and a log-normal distribution respectively. We calculate magmatic overpressure using selected dyke aspect ratios to estimate the depth of the magma reservoir. This study suggests that the CPSM dykes form mainly due to the injection of magma from a deep magma reservoir at depths >31 km, hence close to the Moho crust-mantle boundary (31-33 km). Paleo stress reconstruction shows that the CPSM dyke swarm was emplaced when the minimum principal compressive stress (63) was oriented WNW-ESE, and the maximum principal compressive stress (61) was vertical. The reconstruction also shows that the emplacement of the CPSM swarm occurred during a transtensional tectonic regime, associated with the WACadomian orogeny.

Within the Bou Azzer El Graara inlier, Morocco, the analysis of hydrothermal alteration along the N120 and N040 composite faults hosting Co-Ni mineralization is of major importance in evaluation of petrogenesis and exploration potential. This research aims to address this through the use remote sensing data followed up with fieldwork linked with detailed sampling with follow-up petrographic and geochemical analyses. The combination of these approaches reveals a strong relationship between brittle deformation and hydrothermal alteration and mineralization, with zonation from core to fault margin; these variably mineralized faults cross-cut the synto late-collisional Cryogenian A & iuml;t Ahmane and Ousdrat plutons. The mineralization and alteration is also visible at the nodes between the N120 and N040 faults. The Chlorite-Carbonate-Pyrite Index (CCPI) is used to generally geochemically characterize the alteration associated with the Co-Ni mineralization in Bou Azzer. The moderately low CCPI and high Alteration Index (AI) support the observations that sericite, propylitic, and chlorite alteration types are spatially associated with these mineralized veins. As a mineral exploration tool, we have adopted appropriate methods by calculating the Molar Element Ratios (MER) (precisely: PER and GER diagrams) and mass changes. These MER diagrams show that the samples from faulted zones in two quartz diorite plutons are the traps of K-Mg-Ca-Si metasomatism linked to gains of these elements with the probable release of others elements, such as Fe and Mg. Closer to the vein core, this metasomatism intensifies and can be correlated with some base and strategic metals (Co-Ni-As-Cu-Pb-Zn-Ag) forming an ore assemblage with rammelsbergite, skutterudite, nickeline, cobaltite, loellingite, and other sulfide species, etc. This ore assemblage is probably formed during the cycling of the ductile-brittle transition during epidodic faulting and fluid flow. The examination of the distribution and abundance of propylitic, chloritic, sericitic, and carbonate alteration and the analysis of mass change exhibit a gain of K, Ca, and Mg and significant loss of Si and Fe linked to those alteration types; these alteration features are regionally extensive, possibly considered as a geochemical 6. In addition, the intermediate plutons that host alteration-mineralization have changed from Mg-Ca-Fe to K-Mg-Si alteration assemblages; these are linked to the cogenetic mineralization episode (along the NE-veins), and triggered by the reactivation of NWSE contact zones, with remobilization, and the generation of NE-SW faults. Following these findings, we propose that these faults, which were generated during the late Pan-African and the early Cadomian orogenies, respectively, are a good structural and geochemical metallotect. As such, they deserve in-depth study within a framework of regional exploration in the Bou-Azzer El Graara inlier and throughout the Anti Atlas.

Mafic Microgranular Enclaves (MMEs) within granitoids are commonly interpreted as indicators of coexisting mafic magma that were derived from the mantle, which can offer valuable insights into the origins and evolution of primary mafic magmas. In this article, we investigate the petrography and bulk-rock major and trace elements geochemistry of quartz monzonite, the hosted MMEs, and the associated pink granite, from the Bougaffer pluton in the eastern Saghro Inlier. This study aims to clarify the petrogenetic processes that formed the MMEs and their granitoid host rocks. The MMEs are characterized by a microgranular texture and occur as ellipsoidal, angular and rounded shape, ranging in size from 2 to 80 cm, with sharp boundaries. They share the same mineral content as their host rocks though in distinct proportions, and are classified as monzonite and monzodiorite with high-K calc-alkaline to shoshonitic composition. The MMEs show lower SiO2 contents and higher TiO2, CaO, MgO, Fe2O3t, and Al2O3 contents compared to their host granitoids. The MMEs and their host granitoid display several similarities, including the same mineralogy and similar total-rock compositions, suggesting a genetic relationship. The MMEs are most likely cumulates formed during the initial phase of the same magmatic system that produced the Bougaffer quartz monzonite. A two stages model is proposed, involving rapid solidification within the cogenetic host granitoid magma at the chamber boundaries, leading to the formation of crystal accumulations at the bottom of the magma chamber as cumulates. These cumulates were later fragmented and disturbed due to subsequent magma recharge and the convection induced within the magma chamber.

The study is based on a bibliometric analysis of scientific knowledge on geoheritage, geotourism, geoconservation and geoparks in Africa, using data from the Scopus database for the period 1999-2022. The results reveal an exponential growth in research in these fields, characterised by two distinct phases, while highlighting the remarkable productivity of certain African countries, such as Morocco, South Africa, Egypt and Ethiopia. These results provide an overview of the trend in research on geoheritage, geoconservation, geotourism and geoparks in Africa, and make it possible to monitor the evolution of scientific research and identify research priorities across the continent. This approach is proving extremely useful in providing crucial information to the research community, practitioners and decision-makers who are seeking to understand the dynamics of development.

The Ediacaran-Cambrian transition represents a pivotal geological marker, denoting the decline of the Ediacaran biota and the emergence of most modern phyla in an interval marked by perturbations to the carbon cycle (as evidence by carbonate carbon isotopes, delta 13Ccarb), biotic turnover, dynamic paleoredox regimes, and magnetic field instability. Following initial international expeditions to the Anti-Atlas belt in Morocco, numerous attempts have sought to pinpoint the exact stratigraphic level of the Ediacaran-Cambrian boundary (E-C) in this important succession, where ca. 3 km of continuous carbonate rocks provide one of the most complete successions for the establishment of a global delta 13Ccarb chemostratigraphic reference curve. Subsequently, a growing number of publications have explored the stratigraphy, paleontology, and geochronology of the Ediacaran-Cambrian transition in the Anti-Atlas. Despite extensive efforts, the precise position of the E-C boundary in the AntiAtlas remains ambiguous, with multiple proposed positions ranging from within the Ouarzazate Group to the lower part of the Tifnout Member (Adoudou Formation, Taroudant Group). Here, we conduct a comprehensive review of the available chemostratigraphic, paleontological, and geochronological data associated with the late Ediacaran-Cambrian Ouarzazate Group and Adoudou Formation within the Anti-Atlas belt. The objective is to refine our understanding of the regional expression of the E-C boundary and offer clarity on the inconsistencies observed among biostratigraphy, chemostratigraphy, and geochronology. This review underscores that the currently proposed boundary relies primarily on the delta 13Ccarb excursion, lacking corroboration from other independent markers such as geochronology and globally significant ichnofossil assemblage constituents. Additionally, through the integration of newly available data and enhanced global chemostratigraphy, biostratigraphy, and geochronology, our findings suggest that the E-C boundary within the Western Anti-Atlas may be positioned as low as within the upper unit of the Tabia Member. However, this interpretation relies heavily on a Fortunian age for the ichnotaxa Monomorphichnus, in the absence of co-occurring specimens of the boundary-defining ichnospecies Treptichnus pedum. Moreover, a revised assessment of chemostratigraphic correlation and geochronological markers indicates that the Tabia and Tifnout members in the Central and Eastern Anti-Atlas do not correlate with the same named members in the Western Anti-Atlas. Both the Tabia and Tifnout members of the Central-Eastern Anti-Atlas may instead correlate with the middle part of Tifnout Member in the Western Anti-Atlas. This implies a late Ediacaran to early Cambrian ca. 10 m.y stratigraphic gap in the CentralEastern Anti-Atlas and hence the E-C boundary in the Central-Eastern Anti-Atlas is likely situated within the unconformity between the Ouarzazate and Taroudant Groups. Lastly, we present unresolved questions regarding the biogenicity and affinities of some described discoidal structures and calcified microfossils from the Tabia Member, with the aim of further stimulating active engagement of the global scientific community in the establishment of robust paleontological and chronostratigraphic constraints for the E-C boundary within the Anti-Atlas belt.

Safi province, which belongs to the Western Moroccan Meseta and the Variscan domains, hosts several geosites characterised by distinct sedimentological, geomorphological, paleoclimatic, and stratigraphic features. This region is of great importance, not only for understanding the geodynamic and geomorphological evolution of the region, or that of the Mediterranean basin as a whole, but also for its rich diversity in both tangible and intangible cultural heritage. The present study focuses on the inventory and quantitative assessment of 11 geosites within the Safi province. A five-stage model, comprising a detailed description of the site, a scientific value (considered to be central), additional values, potential use value, and a synthesis allowing calculation of the tourist value and educational value as well as identification of the risks of degradation, is used for the quantitative assessment of geosites. The results show that the Sidi Bouzid escarpment, Lalla Fatna escarpment, the lagoon of Oualidia, Souira lgdima, and El Goraan cave geosites have the highest scientific value. Most geosites in Safi province have the potential for both education and tourism purposes, as they have final scores higher than 6 out of 10. Regarding the risk of degradation, the majority of geosites face a medium risk due to human intervention and natural factors. This work could be considered as the basis of any geoconservation strategy and geotourism action plan in the area since it focused on the two first steps of it. This may help foster sustainable development in the Safi province through the creation of a geopark, the promotion of new income-generating activities through geotourism and geoeducation, and the implementation of a comprehensive geoconservation strategy. Such an initiative is particularly crucial in the global context of climate change.

With the growing impact of environmental challenges, the need for well-planned and effectively executed actions to support progress and sustainable social development has become increasingly evident. Geoparks play a vital role in this endeavor by fostering the development of products that celebrate local heritage and promote its conservation, utilizing the natural and cultural resources unique to each region in sustainable ways. Geoproducts, in particular, aim to enrich cultural identity and elevate the value of the landscape and geodiversity by integrating communities into innovative approaches and technologies, engaging them in commercialization, and ensuring sustainability alongside social inclusion. Within the framework of the Safi Geopark Project, this article delves into the concept of geoproducts, their definitions, and their potential to bolster local identity and social and economic development. Leveraging the abundant geological and cultural resources of Safi province, the study presents both tangible and intangible geoproducts that merge traditional craftsmanship with modern sustainability practices. Notable examples include ammonite-inspired ceramics, educational materials, and eco-friendly cosmetics, each carefully designed to reflect and celebrate the region’s geoheritage. This article underscores the crucial role of community involvement in the creation of geoproducts, highlighting their impact on conservation, education, and the promotion of sustainable tourism. By proposing actionable strategies, this study not only broadens the understanding of geoproducts within geoparks but also reinforces their importance as instruments for regional development, heritage conservation, and sustainable economic growth.

In the northern margin of the West African Craton (WAC), Ediacaran terranes crop out in the Anti-Atlas and the peri-Gondwanan terranes of the Meseta and the Ossa-Morena Zone of Western Europe. In the latter, the ca. 640-530 Ma Cadomian evolution is well understood, whereas geodynamic events effected terranes in Morocco remain debated, partly due to imprecise lithostratigraphic units and their ages. In this study, we integrate new field surveys with available geochronological and isotopic data to refine the lithostratigraphy of the Anti-Atlas and establish an across-orogen correlation with the Meseta and the Ossa Morena Zone (Spain). The lithostratigraphic revision suggests that the Ediacaran succession of the Anti-Atlas can be subdivided into the early Ediacaran Saghro Group (640-600 Ma) and the late Ediacaran Ouarzazate Supergroup (580-538 Ma), separated by a 20-million-year (Ma) sedimentary gap. The Ouarzazate Supergroup is further subdivided into three groups: M'Gouna, Lower Ouarzazate, and Upper Ouarzazate, each characterized by distinct isotopic signatures and separated by two angular unconformities. This new lithostratigraphic framework shows that the Eastern-Central Anti-Atlas (ECAA) and Meseta preserve an early Ediacaran sedimentary and volcano-plutonic infill of a subsiding back-arc basin that developed between 640 and 600 Ma. This early Ediacaran back-arc succession is also present in Ossa Morena Zone but is absent in the western Anti-Atlas, which remained tectonically stable during this period. The closure of this basin was marked by tectonic-metamorphic and magmatic activity, as evidenced by the deformation of the Saghro Group in the ECAA and Meseta and the Montemolin Formation in Ossa Morena, accompanied by the emplacement of adakitic and magmatism with high Sr/Y signature. Throughout the Anti-Atlas and the Meseta area, this phase was followed by a magmatic and sedimentary gap of approximately 10 Myr and 20 Myr, respectively. After these hiatuses, sedimentation transitioned to a subaerial continental environment with deposition of the M'gouna Group between 580 and 570 Ma with sedimentary and magmatic rocks characterized by negative epsilon Nd values indicative of West African Craton (WAC) continental crust recycling. The Lower Ouarzazate Group (LOG, 569-567 Ma) was deposited over similar to 2 Ma across the entire Anti-Atlas and Meseta, coinciding with a shift toward a more juvenile magma source. The Upper Ouarzazate Group (UOG, 567-540 Ma) is dominated by sedimentary, epiclastic deposits with exclusively juvenile magma. This revised lithostratigraphic framework highlights a similar evolutionary history between the CEAA, Meseta, and Ossa-Morena Zone and sheds new light on the effects of the Cadomian orogeny on the Gondwana mainland.

Art can be applied as an educational tool for facilitating geoscience communication among young children and students. Consequently, tourism activities which include geotourism, can use art and artists to facilitate the communication of geoscience concepts and processes from the professional level to tourists, including children. This research aims to achieve three main Objectives (i) to study how geotourism activities can be applied for communicating geoscience and geoeducation purposes; (ii) to promote geotourism through the use of art, in particular handicrafts, as a communication tool; and (iii) to highlight geoproducts inspired by the ceramics industry and the existence of fossils in the province of Safi, Morocco. According to the results obtained from this study, the lack of significant work on the designing of geoproducts in Morocco represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The integration of geological elements and traditional art, as proposed in this study, could serve as an innovative strategy not only for improving the local economy but also for geoeducation and the popularization of geosciences.

The Sidi Bouzid escarpment is one of the geosites that present high educational and tourism values in the Safi Province, extending for several kilometers along the Atlantic coast southwest of the city of Safi, Safi Province, Marrakech-Safi region, Morocco. It offers panoramic views over the town and the Atlantic Ocean, as well as a beautiful beach much frequented by holidaymakers. The sedimentary and paleontological information preserved in the rocks that form the escarpment makes a valuable contribution to paleobiogeographic and paleoclimatic interpretations and stratigraphic correlations on a regional and global scale. This paper focused on promoting and popularizing earth sciences among students at universities, research centers, colleges, schools, and the general public by developing an educational program adapted to the Sidi Bouzid geosite. Survey was employed to collect the data, the results of which was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the educational program. The results showed that the program had a significant impact on all visitor categories since it offered visitors a holistic view of how geological processes shaped the Earth, revealing the interconnections between the many components of the Earth system (the geosphere, the hydrosphere, the atmosphere, and the biosphere).

The Saghro inlier in the Anti-Atlas belt of Morocco comprises several granitoids dating from 600 to 550 million years ago (Ma), which are overlain by a volcano-sedimentary series. In particular, the granodioritic plutons exhibit widespread enclaves, which is a tool for emplacements mode and magma interaction processus during the Ediacaran evolution of the Anti-Atlas belt. This paper presents a detailed field mapping, petrographic analysis, and deformation quantification of the mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs) and their host granitoids to characterize the emplacement mode of the plutons and the origin of MMEs. Macroscopically, the MMEs are rounded to ellipsoidal shapes and characterized by sharp, crenulated contacts, fine-grained textures, and some of them include fragments of host rock and feldspar xenocrysts. Petrographically, the MMEs exhibit a range of compositions from gabbroic to quartz diorite, and they are characterized by the presence of acicular apatite, quartz-feldspar ocelli, poikilitic and zoned plagioclases, which are the result of mixing/mingling of mafic and felsic magmas during the genesis of MMEs. The magmatic structures and enclave's organization in Saghro granitoids indicate two styles of emplacement. The c. 600 Ma Iknioun granodiorite exhibits an S-sigmoidal structure, representative of a syntectonic emplacement model within a transpressive dextral movement along E-W shear zones. While, in the 580-560 Ma Oussilkane, Tagmout, Igoudrane, and Bou Teglimt plutons, the organization of magmatic flow and orientations of enclaves suggest that the magma was emplaced as a post-tectonic dome. The variation in emplacement mode and the decrease in deformation intensity from the c. a. 600 Ma in the Iknioun pluton to the 580-560 Ma for the others plutons indicate a progressive shift in deformation regime from transpressive during the middle Ediacaran to a transtensive regime in the late Ediacaran, highlighting the progressive transition from Pan-African/Cadomian orogeny to Cambrian rifting.

To meet the objectives of the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda and the African Union’s 2063 Agenda for inclusive and sustainable development, it is necessary to pay greater attention to development strategies that focus on geoheritage, particularly in the context of global climate change. Furthermore, the surge in scientific research within this domain attests to a growing interest in the preservation and valorization of geoheritage. The current study seeks to contribute to this dynamic by conducting an evaluation and valorization of the Jbel Irhoud geosite, the cradle of humanity that hosts the oldest remains of homosapiens globally. This site is included in the geoheritage inventory project of Youssoufia province within the administrative region of Marrakech-Safi. This research aims to develop indices for assessing tourism and educational values on scales from 1 to 10, using criteria covering the scientific, ecological, cultural, aesthetic, economic, and potential use aspects of a geosite. Given its geographical position and geological diversity, the study describes the high geoeducational and geotouristic potential of the Ighoud geosite that can be exploited to improve the living conditions of its population and accelerate sustainable local socio-economic development by creating new income-generating activities. This initiative is important in a region with high natural potential but facing a high rate of unemployment and difficult natural conditions.

The Saghro inlier in the Anti-Atlas belt of Morocco comprises several granitoids dating from 600 to 550 million years ago (Ma), which are overlain by a volcano-sedimentary series. In particular, the granodioritic plutons exhibit widespread enclaves, which is a tool for emplacements mode and magma interaction processus during the Ediacaran evolution of the Anti-Atlas belt. This paper presents a detailed field mapping, petrographic analysis, and deformation quantification of the mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs) and their host granitoids to characterize the emplacement mode of the plutons and the origin of MMEs.Macroscopically, the MMEs are rounded to ellipsoidal shapes and characterized by sharp, crenulated contacts, fine-grained textures, and some of them include fragments of host rock and feldspar xenocrysts. Petrographically, the MMEs exhibit a range of compositions from gabbroic to quartz diorite, and they are characterized by the presence of acicular apatite, quartz-feldspar ocelli, poikilitic and zoned plagioclases, which are the result of mixing/mingling of mafic and felsic magmas during the genesis of MMEs. The magmatic structures and enclave’s organization in Saghro granitoids indicate two styles of emplacement. The c. 600 Ma Iknioun granodiorite exhibits an S-sigmoidal structure, representative of a syntectonic emplacement model within a transpressive dextral movement along E-W shear zones. While, in the 580-560 Ma Oussilkane, Tagmout, Igoudrane, and Bou Teglimt plutons, the organization of magmatic flow and orientations of enclaves suggest that the magma was emplaced as a post-tectonic dome. The variation in emplacement mode and the decrease in deformation intensity from the c.a. 600 Ma in the Iknioun pluton to the 580-560 Ma for the others plutons indicate a progressive shift in deformation regime from transpressive during the middle Ediacaran to a transtensive regime in the late Ediacaran, highlighting the progressive transition from Pan-African/Cadomian orogeny to Cambrian rifting.

Inventorying and assessing geoheritage is a prerequisite for developing measures to preserve unique geological and geomorphological sites. Several researchers have developed methods for assessing and determining the value of geological and geomorphological sites. Given rapid environmental and climatic changes, it is crucial to improve the state of geoheritage assessment and inventory development. This overview presents an analysis of research on geoheritage assessment conducted in Morocco over the past 14 years (2008-2022). The objective is to provide an overview of the main methodological approaches. The analysis is based on a search of the Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases to identify publications dealing mainly with Moroccan geoheritage sites. We find that most studies have concentrated on the identification and characterization of various geoheritage sites across the country, employing only the descriptive method. However, as the field has progressed, earth scientists are applying quantitative inventory and assessment methods, with some initiatives to propose new methods adapted to the Moroccan context.

Museums, as significant actors in their respective areas, face the challenge of evolving beyond being mere repositories of heritage. They are increasingly expected to serve as instrumental contributors to balanced human development and overall societal well-being. This includes actively participating in cultural tourism and geotourism initiatives, which are essential components of broader efforts to enhance collective welfare. This study explores the role of museums in promoting geotourism and preserving geological heritage, using the National Ceramics Museum in Safi, Morocco (NCMSM) as an example. Experts agreed on the potential of museums to promote geotourism and protect geosites through a variety of activities, including geosite visits, educational programs, interpretive panels, geotours, awareness campaigns, souvenir offers, and interactive applications. These initiatives can effectively raise awareness, foster appreciation, and support the conservation of geosites, while also contributing to the development of sustainable geotourism practices. Statistically, amongst the listed activities at NCMSM, the pottery workshops are the most recommended activity as they appeal to people of all ages and levels. The ceramic-rich heritage at NCMSM is encouraged to take a holistic approach, ensuring a wider impact on public understanding, engagement, and preservation efforts.

The overlap of tectonic and magmatic events in the Bou Azzer-El Graara inlier causes a complexity for understanding the absolute and/or relative chronology between the deformation and the hydrothermal system. In the central northern part of the Bou Azzer-El Graara inlier, syn-orogenic ca. 650 Ma A & iuml;t Ahmane and Ousdrat plutons have been deformed under NE-SW shortening and with metamorphic conditions. These plutons are affected by fault systems with four mains directions: N015, N090, N140, and N040. The last two fault systems are the most mineralized and they are weakly constrained in the frame of deformation phases affecting the Bou Azzer inlier, and filling style. In addition, Pan-African, WACadomian or Hercynian origin of NE-SW faults is not yet reached. This contribution aims to clarify these issues based on structural, textural and morphological of these faults and veins. Our analyses highlight that most of these structures were formed through open-space filling and crack-sealslip mechanisms. N140 contacts faults between serpentinite and quartz diorite experienced multiple reactivations during the WACadomian stages. The oldest activation was in ductile condition and later reactivated in a transpression to transtension regime leading to the development of N040 faults as sinistral antithetic faults due to NNE stress evolution. Field observations suggest that N040 structures affect late Ediacaran Ouarzazate Group, but not the Adoudounian Formation, highlight their WACadomian origine. The N040 structures preserve metric to microscopic cataclastic shear zones. This evolution suggests that the hydrothermal system in the Bou Azzer inlier shifted from ductile-brittle hydrothermal style along the N140 foliated contact to a brittle regime along the N040 sinistral-normal faults. Some intra-vein microtextures suggest that this hydrothermal fluid was emplaced in a predominantly extensional and tectonically active environment, as evidenced by extensional relay, syntaxial and antiaxial textures, and elongated grains. Consequently, a detailed analysis of the morphology, textures, filling types, and fault movements is an essential and important tool for establishing the relative chronology of deformation in front of the N140 and N040 veins.