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Agriculture

Gharb's Sweet Harvest: Mechanized Sugar Beet Processing Commences

Tuesday 28 May 2024 - 16:00

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In the fertile agricultural heartland of Gharb, the long-awaited sugar beet processing season has commenced, heralding a flurry of activity and the promise of a bountiful harvest. The ceremonial kick-off event, presided over by El Habib Nadir, the governor of Sidi Kacem province, witnessed the convergence of key stakeholders, including Rachid Benali, the president of the Moroccan Confederation of Agriculture and Rural Development (COMADER), and Hassan Mounir, the esteemed director-general of the Cosumar Group.

The inaugural processing operation unfolded on a 60-hectare farm, where cutting-edge technologies seamlessly integrated with traditional farming practices. Embracing the digital age, drones soared overhead, meticulously capturing data and ensuring precision agriculture at its finest. This harmonious fusion of innovation and tradition exemplifies Morocco's commitment to sustainable and efficient agricultural practices.

According to a communiqué from the Regional Directorate of Agriculture (DRA) in Rabat-Salé-Kénitra, the Gharb region is poised to yield an impressive 276,000 tons of sugar beets from a harvestable area spanning 5,180 hectares, originating from an initial sown area of 5,560 hectares. Optimism abounds, as the DRA anticipates an average yield of 53 tons per hectare, representing a 3% increase compared to the previous campaign's yield of 51.5 tons per hectare. Remarkably, some exceptional farms are expected to achieve yields as high as 75 tons per hectare, a testament to the region's fertile soil and the dedicated efforts of its farmers.

The 2023-2024 agricultural campaign has been bolstered by the government's support through the Program for Mitigating the Impact of Rainfall Deficit, which has subsidized fertilizer prices to alleviate the burden of rising production costs. As a result, farmers have benefited from reduced prices, paying 240 dirhams per quintal for 33% ammonium nitrate, 330 dirhams per quintal for 46% urea, and 422 dirhams per quintal for base fertilizers. Additionally, the sale price of sugar beets has been increased by 80 dirhams per ton delivered, providing a much-needed financial boost to the sector.

As the mechanical harvesters commence their rhythmic dance across the fields, the air is filled with a palpable sense of anticipation and hope. The sugar beet processing season in Gharb represents more than just an economic endeavor; it is a celebration of Morocco's agricultural prowess, a testament to the resilience of its farmers, and a promise of sustenance for the nation and beyond.

With each passing day, the sweet rewards of this labor-intensive endeavor will be realized, as the sugar beet harvest contributes to Morocco's self-sufficiency and strengthens its position as a key player in the global agricultural arena. The convergence of tradition, innovation, and unwavering commitment has set the stage for a triumphant season in Gharb, a region that continues to uphold the nation's rich agricultural heritage while embracing the cutting edge of modern farming practices.