With the arrival of the first autumn rains, life has returned to the Moroccan fields, signaling a period of renewed hope for farmers and agricultural professionals alike. Although the rainfall has been limited, it is sufficient to inspire optimism as it heralds the onset of the new agricultural season that traditionally begins in October each year. Across various regions in Morocco, preparations are well underway, involving soil cultivation, seed and fertilizer provision, and the repair of irrigation systems and water facilities. These insights have been gathered from agricultural professionals by the online newspaper Hespress, yet the farmers' gaze remains fixed on the skies, eagerly anticipating further rainfall that will secure the commencement of plowing and sowing, ultimately shaping the contours of the forthcoming weeks and months. This bodes well for a promising start to the season.
“Preparations Underway and Seeds Available”
Mouha Arshoun, a farmer and professional representative serving as the "Secretary of Farmers" in the Kiko area within the Boulemane province (Fès-Meknès region), stated that “preparations for the new season commenced with the first drops of rain.” In an interview with Hespress, Arshoun elaborated that farmers are currently engaged in soil cultivation and preparation, while also working on ensuring the availability of seeds and fertilizers. The actual plowing and sowing activities are set to begin in October and November, depending on the types of crops being planted, including barley, grains, and others.
Arshoun further pointed out that there is a comprehensive readiness and keen interest from various stakeholders, including agricultural departments, chambers of agriculture, and relevant authorities. He confirmed to the newspaper that “seeds are abundantly available in sufficient quantities at agricultural departments and markets, at reasonable prices that meet farmers' needs,” particularly following a bountiful harvest of grains at the conclusion of the previous agricultural season. Being in direct contact with professionals and attuned to their concerns, Arshoun noted “positive feedback and impressions following the initial rainfall,” yet he added, “farmers, especially in the Fès-Meknès region, are awaiting cooler temperatures and continued rain to initiate sowing.” While he emphasized that “all necessary supplies are available, from direct planting techniques to seeds,” he expressed hope for a fruitful agricultural season thanks to the anticipated rains.
Support for Water Resources
On another note, Mohamed Al-Azawi, the director of the agricultural chamber in the Souss-Massa region, explained that agricultural activity in the region primarily relies on irrigation. This is particularly vital for vegetables, early crops, tunnel farming, and covered greenhouses, in addition to various fruit trees and citrus. Al-Azawi highlighted in a statement to Hespress that “the sources of water supply vary between surface water from dams, groundwater, and seawater desalination technologies.” He underscored the pivotal role of rainfall in supporting and replenishing water tables, which enables farmers to “resume irrigation” in several water basins.
He confirmed that various departments of the Ministry of Agriculture and regional structures “have taken the necessary field and administrative arrangements.” These arrangements, according to his remarks to Hespress, include “rehabilitating water channels and equipping hydro-agricultural facilities to be ready with the arrival of the rain.” While he acknowledged that “the recent rainfall was limited and lasted for only a day or two,” he emphasized that agricultural advisory agencies and the regional office for agricultural investment are present in the field to support and guide farmers, expressing hope that “the rains will continue to yield positive results” this season.
With a declared readiness and hopes pinned on the skies, farmers enter the new season. Preparations are in place, and supplies are available; however, the definitive outcomes will be determined by what the coming weeks and months bring, contingent on the generosity of the heavens.
As reported by hespress.com.
