Interview 3 – Bastilla making in the old souq

Tell us about your background

We all worked together as a family at that time. We used to work in agriculture—ploughing and farming. But after my father passed away, we could not continue, so we moved to the city.

How long have you worked in the Black Economy?

I have been doing this work for about 25 years. I work long hours every day. I don’t keep precise counts, but most of my time is dedicated to work. I support my mother financially. She is elderly and needs care and medication, which is expensive. I am responsible for covering these costs.

Tell us about your job

I feel comfortable here. I am treated well and with respect. My work consists of preparing warqa (pastry sheets used for bastilla). I am also involved in small-scale trade. I sell products like bastilla, khlii, olive oil, honey, and amlou. These are traditional, high-quality products from the city of Fes. I would like to continue here. I am happy with my colleagues and the environment. My boss is very nice and considers me.

What are the main concerns you have about your job?

My main goal is to be able to buy my own house. I also face financial pressure because of my mother’s medical expenses. Healthcare and medication are costly, and it is difficult to keep up, even though I manage as best as I can.

Thoughts about the formalisation of the economy run/sector?

I feel safe and supported. I am very happy working here. It is not only about money. There is also a sense of solidarity, respect, and good relationships between people. I’d love my job to be formal, but as she has a good boss, she’s comfortable with the situation