Morocco Steps Up Efforts to Tackle Water Scarcity
Facing growing concerns over water-strategy-climate-change-groundwater-management/” title=”Morocco Prioritizes Water Security: Minister Baraka Leads Key Meeting on Water Projects”>water security, the Moroccan government is accelerating its national water strategy. Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch recently led a high-level meeting to address the urgent need for action and ensure the successful implementation of the 2020-2027 National Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation Program.
The meeting, held in M’diq on July 30th, brought together key figures including Nizar Baraka, Minister of Equipment and Water; Abdelouafi Laftit, Minister of Interior; and Mohammed Sadiki, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water and Forests. The focus was on expediting critical investments in the water sector and aligning the program with the priorities outlined in King Mohammed VI’s recent Throne Day speech.
The King’s address, delivered on the 25th anniversary of his accession to the throne, highlighted the urgency of the water crisis facing Morocco. He called for a continuous reassessment and improvement of the national water policy, emphasizing the importance of timely project completion.
Echoing the King’s sentiments, Prime Minister Akhannouch stressed the government’s unwavering commitment to implementing the national water program. He urged all relevant government departments to expedite water-related investments and adhere to established timelines.
The Prime Minister emphasized the program’s crucial role in mitigating the impacts of water stress and meeting the expectations of the King. To ensure progress, the steering committee will increase the frequency of its meetings to closely monitor the implementation of the program’s various components.
Morocco, like many countries in North Africa, faces significant water challenges. According to the World Bank, the country’s annual renewable water resources have fallen below 600 cubic meters per capita, placing it well below the absolute water scarcity threshold of 1,000 cubic meters per capita.
This proactive approach to water management underscores the Moroccan government’s commitment to ensuring water security for its citizens and future generations. By prioritizing investment and aligning its efforts with the King’s vision, Morocco is taking decisive steps to address this pressing global challenge.
