Drought Forces Total Ban on Watermelon Farming in Tinghir, Morocco
Tinghir, Morocco – Facing a severe water crisis, the Tinghir province in the Drâa-Tafilalet region has implemented a complete ban on watermelon cultivation, impacting both red and yellow varieties. This drastic measure, announced in a new decree by the provincial governor, aims to address the escalating water scarcity that has plagued the region for years. The decision comes as Morocco, like much of North Africa, grapples with the increasing effects of climate change, including prolonged droughts and dwindling water resources. This ban underscores the difficult choices facing agricultural communities as they balance economic needs with environmental sustainability.
The governor’s decree cites the persistent drought and the excessive water consumption associated with watermelon farming as key reasons for the ban. Watermelon, a thirsty crop, puts significant strain on groundwater reserves, particularly during dry periods. This over-reliance on groundwater has led to a dramatic decline in the water table, threatening the long-term viability of the region’s water supply. The decree emphasizes the urgent need to prioritize drinking water for residents and protect the fragile oasis ecosystems, crucial for biodiversity and local livelihoods, from further degradation. The decision aligns with a broader national strategy to promote water conservation and sustainable agricultural practices in the face of climate change. For example, the Moroccan government has invested in desalination plants and wastewater treatment facilities to diversify water sources and reduce pressure on groundwater. [Link to relevant article about Morocco’s water strategy, e.g., World Bank report, government website]
The ban is further supported by a joint ministerial decision issued on September 22, 2022, which identified watermelon, along with new citrus and avocado plantations, as ineligible for subsidized drip irrigation projects. This policy reflects a shift towards promoting less water-intensive crops and encouraging more efficient irrigation techniques. The move towards water-wise agriculture is gaining traction globally, with organizations like the FAO promoting drought-resistant crops and innovative irrigation technologies. [Link to FAO or similar resource on water-wise agriculture]
Enforcement of the ban will be overseen by local committees comprising representatives from various stakeholders. These include local authorities, territorial communities, the agricultural chamber, the Royal Gendarmerie, auxiliary forces, the Regional Office for Agricultural Investment in Ouarzazate, and representatives of farmers (cooperatives or individuals). This collaborative approach aims to ensure effective implementation and address the concerns of local farmers impacted by the ban. The committees will likely play a crucial role in providing support and guidance to farmers as they transition to alternative crops or explore drought-resistant farming techniques. This transition could involve promoting crops like dates, olives, and other drought-tolerant varieties that are better suited to the region’s arid climate. [Link to information about drought-resistant crops in Morocco, if available]
The ban on watermelon farming in Tinghir highlights the growing challenges posed by water scarcity in arid and semi-arid regions. It underscores the need for proactive measures to manage water resources sustainably and adapt to the changing climate. While the ban may pose short-term economic challenges for some farmers, it is a necessary step to ensure the long-term water security and ecological health of the region. The success of this initiative will depend on effective enforcement, community engagement, and ongoing support for farmers as they navigate this transition towards a more sustainable agricultural future.
