Collaboration between Morocco and the EU to Enhance Water Management
On June 2, 2026, a significant partnership was announced in Rabat, involving Morocco's Ministry of Equipment and Water, the European Union (EU), and three key European countries: Germany, Italy, and France. This collaboration has led to a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bolstering Morocco's water management policies, with an impressive funding of 3.7 billion dirhams (equivalent to 348 million euros) dedicated to the National Water Plan (PNE) of Morocco. This initiative is part of a broader strategy known as "Team Europe," which seeks to mobilize EU grants and concessional loans from European financial institutions.
The financial framework of this partnership includes 514.4 million dirhams (48 million euros) in EU grants, supplemented by approximately 3.2 billion dirhams (300 million euros) secured through concessional loans from three major European financial entities: the German Development Bank (KfW), the Italian Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), and the French Development Agency (AFD). This financial support aims to assist Morocco in implementing a comprehensive public water policy framework centered around four core priorities. These priorities include enhancing understanding of water resources in the context of climate change, improving management of extreme weather phenomena such as droughts and floods, preserving groundwater resources, and strengthening the capacities of institutions responsible for the water sector.
Addressing Water Scarcity Challenges in Morocco
Morocco, like many countries in the Mediterranean region, is grappling with increasing pressure on its water resources, exacerbated by climate change. The country has experienced repeated drought episodes from 2017 to 2025, leading to a rising demand for water. In response, Morocco has embarked on an ambitious policy aimed at sustainable water resource management. This new program complements the ongoing efforts outlined in the National Water Plan and the National Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation Program (PNAEPI) for the years 2020-2027. Additionally, this European support aligns with the "Green Partnership" established between Morocco and the EU in October 2022, as well as the "Pact for the Mediterranean" adopted in November 2025, which prioritizes climate resilience and water resource management as common goals.
The EU delegation emphasized that alongside Moroccan authorities, the EU and three of its member states are committed to translating political commitments into tangible actions that benefit the most vulnerable populations and territories. This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing Morocco's capacity to manage its water resources effectively and sustainably.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
