In a significant escalation on social media, activists in Senegal have initiated widespread campaigns urging citizens to boycott Moroccan goods and services. This movement is a protest against the imprisonment of 18 Senegalese soccer fans in Morocco, following their involvement in incidents of violence during the Africa Cup of Nations final earlier this year. The Moroccan judiciary issued prison sentences ranging from three months to a year for the fans, which has sparked outrage among Senegalese civic leaders and soccer supporters alike.

The fans were convicted for charges that included acts of violence against security forces, property damage, and pitch invasions, all associated with the chaotic atmosphere that characterized the final match, which Senegal won 1-0 after extra time. Despite the convictions, the fans have maintained their innocence, claiming they did not engage in any misconduct during the match, which is viewed as a key moment in their national sporting history.

The Senegalese Football Federation has condemned the sentences as unjust, intensifying feelings of national pride and solidarity among citizens. As the backlash grows, this crisis could redefine economic relations between Senegal and Morocco, with potential impacts on trade and diplomatic interactions moving forward. The call for a boycott comes at a time when public sentiment is highly charged, reflecting not only on sports but also on broader economic ties in the region.