Morocco's Dam Reserves Show Promising Rise Amid Ongoing Water Challenges

Friday 03 January 2025 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco's Dam Reserves Show Promising Rise Amid Ongoing Water Challenges

Morocco's water situation has taken a positive turn as dam reserves across the country reached a filling rate of 28.44% as of January 2, 2025, according to recent data from the Ministry of Equipment and Water. This marks a notable improvement from the 23.27% recorded during the same period last year.

The country's reservoirs now hold 4790.03 billion cubic meters of water, an increase attributed to favorable weather patterns and recent rainfall. Several major dams have demonstrated substantial recovery, with impressive filling rates recorded at key facilities including Allal El Fassi (97.48%), Garde Sebou (85.97%), Hassan Addakhil (72.13%), and Mansour Eddahbi (50.76%).

This improvement comes at a crucial moment for Morocco, which has been battling severe drought conditions for nearly six years. The country has faced significant challenges, with rainfall levels dropping more than 40% below normal, overall water reserves declining by 75%, and groundwater resources diminishing rapidly.

In response to these water security challenges, the Moroccan government has implemented comprehensive water management strategies. These include the development of desalination plants and the promotion of water conservation practices across agricultural and industrial sectors. New regulations have also been established for water-dependent businesses, such as hammams in major urban centers like Casablanca, implementing specific operating schedules to manage water consumption.

King Mohammed VI has emphasized the national importance of water conservation, recently calling upon all Moroccan citizens and stakeholders to actively participate in protecting this vital resource. In his Throne speech, the monarch highlighted the substantial investments and efforts made to secure water supplies and address drought-related challenges, urging for responsible and rational water usage.

The country's proactive approach to water resource management demonstrates its commitment to ensuring sustainable water access for both urban and rural populations, despite the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and diminishing water resources.