Morocco's Leadership in Water Resource Management
Amidst the increasing challenges posed by climate change, Morocco is emerging as a leading example for effective water resource management across Africa. The Kingdom has devised a robust strategy that involves a significant investment of 150 billion dirhams, aimed at enhancing water supply and irrigation. Central to this initiative is the International Institute for Water and Sanitation, located in Rabat, which plays a pivotal role in imparting technical expertise to African nations, thereby facilitating their access to essential water services. This commitment was recently highlighted during the celebrations of Africa Day, held on May 25, 2026, in Rabat, where the African diplomatic community convened to discuss critical continental priorities.
During the ceremony, chaired by Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, the focus on water resource management was emphasized as a strategic imperative in addressing the continent's climate challenges. Morocco's initiative reflects a broader South-South solidarity policy championed by King Mohammed VI, underscoring the Kingdom's dedication to fostering stability and prosperity throughout Africa. Bourita articulated Morocco's unique position, stating, “The Kingdom of Morocco attaches great importance to water issues across the continent. Morocco is in fact a model for Africa given the challenges it faces.” He stressed the importance of sharing Moroccan solutions to various issues, including migration and terrorism, drawn from the Kingdom's own experiences.
Commitment to Stability and Sustainable Development
The event also served as a significant platform to reaffirm Morocco's unwavering commitment to stability and unity within the African continent. Mouhamadou Youssifou, the Ambassador of Cameroon and Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps in Morocco, spoke about the importance of honoring the legacy of the founding fathers of African unity while advocating for a more pragmatic approach to integration. He pointed out that despite the ongoing challenges posed by intra-African conflicts and external economic shocks, the journey towards African integration continues to progress. Youssifou noted, “The celebration of Africa Day is a moment of duty to honour the memory of the founding fathers of African unity.”
Building on its extensive technical knowledge, Morocco is actively executing the National Programme for Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation (PNAEPI) for the period of 2020 to 2027, which represents a monumental investment endeavor worth 150 billion dirhams. This program is supported by a network of 156 large dams and is accompanied by a push towards seawater desalination, with ambitions to produce 1.7 billion cubic meters of desalinated water by 2030. Bourita remarked on Morocco's proactive approach, stating, “Morocco has adopted a resolutely proactive approach to the water challenge.” The Kingdom’s commitment to water resource management is further exemplified by its leadership of the African Ministers’ Council on Water and the establishment of the Hassan II World Water Prize, which plays a critical role in promoting sustainable water management initiatives.
Today, Morocco boasts over 150 large dams and more than 300 smaller dams, which not only support agricultural activities but also ensure safe drinking water for its population. The National Programme for Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation, alongside the National Water Plan 2020-2050, prioritizes access to clean drinking water for all citizens. This celebration of Africa Day reaffirms Morocco’s policy of belonging and positions Rabat as a vital center for dialogue and co-development across the continent.
As reported by africa24tv.com.
