In May 2024, the town of Ouzina, a historic gateway for caravans traversing the Sahara Desert to Central Africa, took center stage in the 20th anniversary edition of The Children’s Desert initiative. This year, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 led a fleet of 39 vehicles, comprising 132 participants, across nearly 2,000 km of challenging terrain—from snowy mountains to sand-swept tracks—culminating in tangible acts of community support in remote desert villages.
Despite formidable weather conditions including turbulent storms in the Strait of Gibraltar and severe sandstorms in the desert, the expedition successfully achieved its goals. The team endured unforeseen challenges, such as relocating their campsite multiple times due to harsh winds, but the resilient coordination by the Xaluca hotel chain ensured smooth logistics.
Ouzina witnessed the inauguration of one of the two new libraries established by the caravan, a project funded by Hyundai dealers. This marked a nostalgic return to the village where Hyundai’s TERRACAN first delivered school supplies in 2005. The newly set up libraries, equipped with furniture, books, computers, and more, were arranged for use by both Spanish and Moroccan children under the guidance of community elders.
The arrival of the all-electric Hyundai IONIQ 5 generated considerable excitement among the villagers, showcasing the progress of automotive technology and its potential in remote areas. This year’s caravan also featured the debut of Hyundai’s new KONA, the Spanish Car of the Year 2024, alongside other 4×4 models like the STARIA, TUCSON, and SANTA FE.
Leopoldo Satrústegui, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Spain, reflected on the two-decade journey of the initiative: “We are proud to mark 20 years of evolving our solidarity project. From SUVs to electric vehicles like the IONIQ 5, Hyundai continues to enhance its contributions. Over these years, we’ve supported the construction of schools, wells, and libraries, and most importantly, the advancement of education in underprivileged areas of Morocco.”
In addition to educational support, the expedition provided crucial health services. Opticians from the ALAIN AFFLELOU Foundation conducted eye exams for 370 villagers across Tisserdimine, Begga, Merzane, and Labrouj, with 348 prescription glasses and 116 sunglasses set to be distributed, thanks to a collaboration with Indo Optical.
Cifal Madrid-RACE contributed by distributing road safety educational materials in Ouzina, reflecting the changing infrastructure and enhancing safety awareness among the local population.
The journey underscored Hyundai’s commitment to long-term community development and highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling the challenges faced by remote communities.
