Headed by Mohammed Benaissa and Mohammed Melehi, the group felt that if Asilah became the hub of worthwhile cultural activity, with support from the local inhabitants, the government would follow suit and upgrade the infrastructure by installing better drainage and improving electrical and water supplies. They began by initiating a study of the ways in which the town's basic services operated. They found much wastage of time and energy, which could be mostly eliminated by involving the local people and asking for their co-operation. For example, refuse collectors using donkeys were wasting a great deal of time knocking on doors and asking for rubbish. By persuading people to put their rubbish outside on collection days, the problem was addressed in a practical manner.
Residents also supply either materials or labour whenever work needs doing on their 'block'.
Mohammed Benaissa, Asilah's mayor, believes that participation by local people leads to an increased appreciation of improvements made. He also feels very strongly that culture is an invaluable resource. The cultural programme began in the spring of 1978, when a small group of artists were invited for the first municipal 'Paint-In'. They created large murals on the ramparts. Large groups of children joined in the painting and received prizes and gifts to foster their enthusiasm for the task.