Operation Smile Morocco Restores Smiles for 90+ Moroccan Children with Cleft Palates in Oujda

Operation Smile Morocco conducted a comprehensive surgical mission in Oujda on January 8, 2024, providing critical care for children with cleft palates.

“Dans une déclaration pour Le360, Fouzia Jbara Mahmoudi, vice-présidente de l’ONG Operation Smile Morocco MENA (Moyen-Orient/Afrique du Nord), a expliqué que «cette campagne visait à redonner espoir aux enfants souffrant de fentes labio-palatines, en leur offrant une opportunité de retrouver le sourire»”

Le360

The mission began with thorough registrations, medical examinations, and diagnostic assessments at the Maison de l'enfant facility.

Le360

A special commission was established to evaluate patients and create both a main list and a waiting list for those eligible for surgical intervention.

This systematic approach ensured that children received proper evaluation and prioritization for the upcoming procedures.

The organization's commitment to organized and efficient healthcare delivery for vulnerable populations was evident throughout this process.

The actual surgical procedures took place over three consecutive days from January 10-12, 2024, at Al Farabi hospital.

The mission maintained a rigorous pace, performing approximately 30 surgeries daily to maximize impact while ensuring quality care.

Le360

This high-volume approach reflects the organization's efficiency and commitment to serving as many children as possible within the limited timeframe.

The intensive surgical phase concluded on January 13, which was dedicated entirely to post-operative monitoring and follow-up care.

This ensured the young patients' safe recovery and continued support through Operation Smile Morocco's centers.

Operation Smile Morocco has established itself as a cornerstone of pediatric surgical care in Morocco over its 25-year history.

“Dans une déclaration pour Le360, Fouzia Jbara Mahmoudi, vice-présidente de l’ONG Operation Smile Morocco MENA (Moyen-Orient/Afrique du Nord), a expliqué que «cette campagne visait à redonner espoir aux enfants souffrant de fentes labio-palatines, en leur offrant une opportunité de retrouver le sourire»”

Le360

The organization has provided free surgical care to over 13,230 children with cleft lip and palate conditions.

This demonstrates a sustained commitment to addressing this specific medical need over decades.

Beyond surgical interventions, the organization has expanded its reach to provide comprehensive dental medical care.

They've served more than 90,000 children across three major cities: Casablanca, El Jadida, and Oujda.

This dual approach addressing both reconstructive surgery and dental care creates a more holistic treatment pathway.

A critical component of Operation Smile Morocco's mission is capacity building through medical education and training.

The organization has invested significantly in developing local expertise by training hundreds of medical volunteers.

Le360

This training program covers essential disciplines including cleft lip and palate surgery, anesthesia, dentistry, and nursing care.

By building local capacity, Operation Smile Morocco ensures that the benefits extend beyond immediate surgical interventions.

They create sustainable healthcare infrastructure that will continue serving Moroccan children long after their direct involvement.

The Oujda mission exemplifies Operation Smile Morocco's comprehensive approach to pediatric facial reconstruction.

“Dans une déclaration pour Le360, Fouzia Jbara Mahmoudi, vice-présidente de l’ONG Operation Smile Morocco MENA (Moyen-Orient/Afrique du Nord), a expliqué que «cette campagne visait à redonner espoir aux enfants souffrant de fentes labio-palatines, en leur offrant une opportunité de retrouver le sourire»”

Le360

It combines immediate surgical intervention with long-term follow-up care.

Le360

The organization's model addresses not just physical aspects but also psychological and social dimensions.

They restore facial functionality and appearance, enabling children to eat properly and speak clearly.

This approach transforms lives by allowing children to socialize without discrimination.

By providing free care and building local medical capacity, they create sustainable healthcare development.