Morocco Announces New High-Level Appointments Across Key Ministries
The Moroccan government recently announced a series of high-level appointments across several key ministries, signaling a potential shift in priorities and leadership focus. These appointments, approved on Thursday, December 12, 2024, are made under Article 92 of the Moroccan Constitution, which empowers the government to make such decisions. This wave of appointments underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening leadership within various sectors and driving progress towards national goals.
Boosting Tourism, Infrastructure, and Investment
Among the notable appointments is Asma El Kadiri as Director of Strategy, Programming, and Cooperation within the Ministry of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy, specifically focusing on the handicrafts and social economy sector. This appointment comes at a crucial time for Morocco’s tourism industry, which is a significant contributor to the national economy. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council, the travel and tourism sector contributed 7.1% to Morocco’s GDP in 2023. El Kadiri’s leadership will be instrumental in shaping the future of this vital sector.
In the Ministry of Equipment and Water, Mohammed Dakhissi has been appointed Director General of Meteorology. This appointment highlights the importance of accurate weather forecasting and water management in a country facing increasing challenges related to climate change and water scarcity. Effective management of water resources is critical for Morocco’s agricultural sector, which accounts for approximately 14% of the country’s GDP.
Further strengthening the government’s focus on urban development and housing, Salma Benzbir has been appointed Director General of the Social Works Foundation within the Ministry of National Land Use Planning, Urban Planning, Housing, and City Policy. This appointment reflects the government’s commitment to addressing the housing needs of its citizens and improving the quality of life in urban areas. Morocco’s rapid urbanization necessitates effective urban planning and housing policies to ensure sustainable development.
Driving Investment and Industrial Growth
Yassine El Tazi has been appointed Director of the Regional Investment Center for the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region within the Ministry Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of Investment, Convergence, and Evaluation of Public Policies. This strategically important region is a hub for economic activity and foreign investment. El Tazi’s leadership will be crucial in attracting further investment and promoting economic growth in the region.
Afaf Saidi has been appointed Director of Aeronautics, Railways, Shipbuilding, and Renewable Energies within the Ministry of Industry and Trade. This appointment reflects the government’s commitment to diversifying its industrial base and promoting sustainable development. The renewable energy sector, in particular, holds significant potential for Morocco, given its abundant solar and wind resources. Saidi’s expertise will be vital in driving growth in these key industrial sectors.
These new appointments represent a significant step towards strengthening leadership and driving progress across various sectors in Morocco. The individuals selected bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles, and their contributions will be crucial in shaping the future of the nation. The government’s focus on key areas such as tourism, infrastructure, investment, and industrial development underscores its commitment to sustainable economic growth and improving the lives of its citizens.
