Magharebia

Many students carry about half their weight in schoolbooks when experts say they should not carry "more than 10% of [their] weight".

Co-operatives are changing the lives of women, teaching them new skills and rewarding them with financial freedom.

To many observers, Algeria's 2010 finance law reinforces a growing protectionist trend.

Movie-lovers in Tunisia attend the first writer-based cinema festival in Nabeul.

A bill to raise the retirement age is sparking strong opposition from trade unions.

The Libyan leader cautioned Malian tribes against supporting criminal elements and promised development and security assistance to combat AQIM.

Football reform is good for Algeria's new class of professional players. For the amateurs left behind in the overhaul, it's a much different story.

Amid new developments on the fate of hostages taken in Niger, Army chiefs of staff met to discuss military counter-terror co-operation.

Moroccan actress Sanaa Akroud refused to attend the fourth Salé International Women's Film Festival following criticisms from Moroccan audiences.

Academics debate the growing influence of Arabs and other Muslims in American public life.

Life is returning to the old quarter of Tunis after a major renovation project created new economic opportunities while preserving the city's heritage.

Magharebia talks with the director and stars of "Fin Decembre" about some controversial issues raised by the new movie.

The first edition of "Journées Musicales à Carthage" will include two talent competitions.

Cancer patients in Algeria are outraged that they have to wait months to undergo chemotherapy treatment, potentially putting their lives at risk.

In his first-ever direct letter to Osama bin Laden, postmarked on the eve of September 11th, former jihadist Noman Benotman said that al-Qaeda damages the image of Islam.

Despite Morocco's efforts to eradicate shantytowns, many say more needs to be done to make people's living conditions suitable.

The trial of two men for failing to fast during the Holy Month is causing uproar among Algerian human rights activists, who call the case a threat to "personal liberty".

Cookbook sales are spiking in Algeria. From young brides to retired old men, Algerians are eager to try home-made "haute cuisine".

Tunisians are divided over an amendment to the citizenship law, which grants equal rights to both parents in passing along their nationality.

Mauritanian troops battled al-Qaeda terrorists inside Mali last week-end, raising questions about the status of relations between the two neighbours.

With the passing of Mohammed Arkoun, religious scholars and philosophers are highlighting his contribution to modern Islamic studies.

The public in Morocco are apprehensive over the implementation of the Highway Code in a few days, echoing the concerns of transport professionals.

While the pass rate for the baccalaureate is up, problems with youth unemployment remain.

Several young Tunisians sought participation in Lebanon's talent show Studio al-Fan. It is a dream come true for many aspiring artists.

A new intelligence unit aims to disrupt terrorists' money supply.

The advent of foreign TV dubbed in Moroccan dialect has some viewers alarmed.

Despite their hard work, women's football teams in Tunisia are finding it's not easy to attract fans and supporters.

Controversial Tunisian writer Olfa Youssef spoke with Magharebia about reconciling Islamic values with a contemporary vision.

Students and teachers now risk sanctions for skipping school.

Several weeks of heavy rain have destroyed vital roads across Mauritania and damaged the economy, but some see a silver lining to the storms.

Algiers' upcoming book fair is at the centre of a cultural and political controversy with possible diplomatic ramifications.

A new plan to revive Mauritanian football has stirred controversy among club officials.

Jannet El-Boukhari's poetry anthology created a sensation when it appeared last month. Among the Tunisians most surprised by the daring collection: her children and husband.

A former terrorist is among those appealing to religious authorities for support in the effort aimed at convincing militants to repent and lay down their arms.

The 26-year old claims he entered the country not as a terrorist but to marry a woman he met over the internet.

Institutionalising the Amazigh language has once again become a focus for national debate.

AQIM and other al-Qaeda groups failed to suspend terror attacks for the Holy Month. Ulema explain how the sin of killing civilians "multiplies on religious occasion".

Amazigh people make special dishes for Ramadan and other for festivals.

'Tunisian award-winning filmmaker Mohamed Zran talks with Magharebia about Zarzis and how one town's humanity and tolerance can inspire the world.

The food staple is at the centre of a disagreement between bakers and the government.

Mauritania’s president followed up on recent prison dialogue with Islamists by releasing several offenders in time for Eid al-Fitr

Tunisians commemorate the end of Ramadan by preparing traditional desserts but the practice may be changing with the times.

An annual festival showcases traditional Sufi culture in the Tunisian capital.

Libya's latest release of radical prison inmates is seen by supporters as an example of positive dialogue. Critics point to one of the 37 freed inmates: Osama bin Laden's driver.

High levels of unemployment among recent graduates have led several to find alternative work, sometimes outside their specialties.

Ex-terrorists recently spoke out on Algerian radio to condemn violence and support national reconciliation. Several al-Qaeda regional leaders heeded their call.

Tunisia has a plan to fix its social security deficit, but workers may not like the remedy.

Clashes and anger appear to be a growing phenomenon every year in Morocco during Ramadan. "This behaviour is far from providing a true reflection of the spirit of Ramadan," said one imam.

Moroccan experts see a recent AQIM web posting about Ceuta and Melilla as nothing more than an attempt to capitalise on border tensions.

Strategising is already in progress for Morocco's 2012 legislative elections. For young people and women, the goal is expanded representation.

Back-to-back events have put Tunisian families in a financial bind. How are they handling the pressure?

Organisers of the Temara Story Festival hope to transmit culture and principles to younger generations.

Algerians set a new record this Ramadan for missing work. As Eid al-Fitr approaches, citizens worry about the ripple effect on public services.

Magharebia visited a Tunisian family as they prepared dishes for iftar.

Moroccans often return to their homeland just for Ramadan. In the current global economy, some are opting to make the move permanent.

Restaurant owners, civil society groups, wealthy benefactors and simple volunteers come together during Ramadan to provide iftar for Moroccans of limited means.

From young people to elderly retirees, residents of several poor Casablanca neighbourhoods are demanding action from the government.