Daily Press Review - Friday, March 27, 2024

WHO Launches CoViNet, a Global Network to Combat Coronaviruses

The World Health Organization (WHO) has initiated a new network dedicated to coronaviruses, CoViNet, aiming to better leverage global expertise and capacities, ensuring coordination to swiftly and accurately detect, track, and assess SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, and emerging coronaviruses significant for public health.

CoViNet builds upon WHO's established COVID-19 reference laboratory network formed at the onset of the pandemic. Initially focusing on SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, the network will now extend its scope to encompass a broader range of coronaviruses, including MERS-CoV and potentially novel ones. It constitutes a global network of laboratories specialized in coronavirus surveillance in humans, animals, and the environment.

Currently, the network comprises 36 laboratories from 21 countries across WHO's six regions.

Laboratory representatives convened in Geneva on March 26 and 27 to develop an action plan for 2024-2025, aiming to better equip WHO Member States for early detection, risk assessment, and response to coronavirus-related health issues.

Source: Al Bayane

EBRD and Morocco: A New Strategy for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth

The Board of Directors of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved its new country strategy for Morocco covering the period 2024-2029.

According to the financial institution, this strategy revolves around three main priorities identified in cooperation with the Moroccan government. It aims to support the transition to a more private sector-driven economy by enhancing competitiveness and promoting Morocco's governance reform agenda. Additionally, the strategy will bolster social cohesion, reduce regional disparities for more inclusive growth, and accelerate Morocco's transition to a green economy through sustainable energy, water resources, and infrastructure.

Source: Al Bayane

Positive Assessment of World Bank's Supervisory Mission for Blue Economy Development in Morocco

The fourth supervisory mission of the World Bank for the "Development of the Blue Economy in Morocco" program (PPR EB) concluded with a positive assessment. The progress made over the past four months was commended by the mission, which also highlighted the government's commitment to sustainable development of coastal and marine areas.

The Ministry of Economy and Finance plays a leading role in coordinating and steering the program. It has announced the upcoming launch of a dedicated web portal for the blue economy.

The PPR EB program encompasses various aspects, including investment and innovation for aquaculture, sustainable management of marine resources, protection and valorization of marine protected areas, blue tourism, monitoring coastal ecosystems and beaches, as well as coastal restoration and conservation.

Source: Aujourd'hui le Maroc 

Over 630,000 Quintals of Subsidized Barley Distributed to Livestock Breeders in Fès-Meknès

The Regional Directorate of Agriculture (DRA) in Fès-Meknès has announced the distribution of over 630,000 quintals (qx) of subsidized barley to breeders in the region. This initiative is part of the Program for Reducing the Impact of Rainfall Deficit and Conjuncture Effects (PRIDPEC 2023) implemented by the government to support farmers facing drought and its effects.

The distribution operation occurred in two phases. The first phase distributed 275,000 qx of subsidized barley to 19,325 breeders, along with 17,390 qx of compound feed to 2,189 dairy cattle breeders. The second phase involved 23,022 breeders receiving 356,818 qx of subsidized barley and 13,690 qx of compound feed for 1,657 dairy cattle breeders.

Source: Aujourd'hui le Maroc

Moroccan Industry Barometer 2022: Strong Economic Performance

The Ministry of Industry and Trade presented the Moroccan Industry Barometer with the main results of the industrial survey for the year 2022 on March 27 in Rabat, during a conference chaired by Ryad Mezzour.

Based on a survey conducted by the ministry among 10,891 companies operating in sectors related to manufacturing industries across the entire national territory, this barometer aims to provide a set of indicators and analyses to evaluate the economic performance of the industrial sector and identify its development prospects. It also aims to create a detailed mapping, both at the sectoral and regional levels, offering more visibility on the contribution of different regions to the overall performance of the industry.

Source: Le Matin du Sahara

Driving Licenses: A Second Chance for Candidates Failed in the Theoretical Test

The Minister of Transport and Logistics, Mohammed Abdeljalil, announced a second chance for candidates who failed the theoretical test of the driving license on the first day of the new system launch. This measure aims to alleviate the difficulties faced by candidates with the reformed exam and is part of a comprehensive strategy to improve road safety in Morocco.

Mr. Abdeljalil noted that the pass rate for the theoretical exam gradually increased after the first day, rising from 35% the following day to 40% on Wednesday. He also estimated that the rate should reach 55% on Thursday and return to normal by the end of the week.

The new examination system is integrated into the reform of the driving education system and revolves around five pillars, including the human element. The goal is to provide more comprehensive training to drivers, focusing not only on knowledge of traffic signs and violations but also on understanding laws and responsibilities related to driving.

Source: Le Matin du Sahara

Moroccan Agriculture Facing the Challenge of Decarbonization

The enforcement of new international green standards and the threat of a carbon border tax from the European Union compel Morocco to urgently reduce the environmental footprint of its agriculture. This transition, far from easy, requires substantial investments, in-depth research, and adaptation of farms to decarbonize a sector still largely traditional.

The challenge of decarbonization involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) from Moroccan agriculture while increasing carbon sequestration in soils. Regenerative agriculture, with its promising practices such as no-till farming, cover cropping, agroforestry, and integrating livestock, offers concrete solutions to meet this challenge.

Source: Les Inspirations Eco

Morocco Celebrates its Gastronomy at the Madrid Gourmets Exhibition

Morocco will be the star of the 37th edition of the Gourmets Exhibition, held in Madrid from April 22 to 25. Under the auspices of Morocco Foodex, affiliated with the Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Fisheries, the Kingdom will showcase the richness and diversity of its traditional cuisine.

A Moroccan pavilion will be specially set up at the exhibition to present visitors with the best local products and culinary specialties of the country. Talented chefs will prepare typical dishes, offering participants a unique and authentic gastronomic experience.

The Gourmets Exhibition will be an opportunity for Morocco to showcase its different regions and their culinary specialties. From refined dishes with intense flavors to sweet and savory treats, visitors will explore the variety and richness of Moroccan gastronomy.

Source: Les Inspirations Eco