Daily Press Review - July 09, 2024

Airbus Strengthens Presence in Morocco with New Factory

Airbus Helicopters, a subsidiary of the European aerospace manufacturer, has announced the establishment of a new factory in Morocco. This industrial unit will be dedicated to customer services and the repair/maintenance of A220 and A350 airframe sections.

In addition to this factory, Airbus also plans to invest in a regional pilot training center equipped with state-of-the-art flight simulators. This center will train pilots from around the world.

These investments are driven by Morocco's strategic geographical position, the development of the Kingdom's aerospace ecosystem, and the long-standing cooperation between Airbus and the Royal Air Force.

The new Airbus factory aligns with the European group's strategy to expand subcontracting in Morocco, create synergies among its various entities, and enhance complexity and knowledge transfer.

Source: L'ECONOMISTE

  
Lydec Now Under the Control of the Regional Multiservice Company Casa-Settat

Lydec, the delegate managing water, electricity, sanitation, and public lighting in Casablanca and its region, is now under the control of the Regional Multiservice Company (SRM) Casa-Settat, three years before the expiration of its contract in 2027.

This transfer, formalized between Veolia and Moroccan authorities, is part of the creation of SRMs, as stipulated by law 83-21, aiming to entrust the management of these public services to regional entities.

The SRM Casa-Settat, with a capital of 200 million dirhams, will be supervised by the collective of local authorities "Casa-Settat Distribution," composed of elected representatives from the region's 157 municipalities.

The personnel of Lydec, along with those of ONEE, other delegates, and agencies affected by the creation of SRMs, are expected to be transferred to the new companies, with assurances from the Minister of the Interior regarding the preservation of their acquired rights.

Source: L'ECONOMISTE

 
Fes Prepares to Host the 2030 World Cup

The city of Fes is determined to host World Cup 2030 matches up to the quarter-finals. To achieve this, local authorities are putting in extra effort and drafting an urgent and ambitious action plan.

Recommended by the Minister of the Interior, Abdelouafi Laftit, this plan will adopt "an innovative approach to material, logistical, and infrastructure aspects" in compliance with FIFA requirements. It will outline the projects to be undertaken and the funds to be mobilized, with support from the ministry.

Fes, a millennia-old city with international renown, has many assets to appeal to FIFA: its central location, young and dynamic population, unique cultural experience, diverse tourist offerings, historic clubs, and passionate supporters.

To accommodate FIFA groups, teams, supporters, and the World Cup audience, Fes plans to have more than 7,600 classified rooms by 2028, with an additional 3,500 rooms from student residences.

Source: L'ECONOMISTE

An Ambitious National Strategy for the Health of the Elderly

Faced with an aging population, Morocco has implemented an unprecedented national strategy for the health of the elderly. Adopted for the period 2024-2030, this ambitious roadmap aims to promote the well-being and quality of life of this growing segment of the Moroccan population while ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare.

Morocco is experiencing accelerated demographic aging. According to projections by the High Commission for Planning (HCP), the proportion of people aged 60 and over is expected to reach 23.2% by 2050, nearly a quarter of the total population. This phenomenon, observed in many countries worldwide, poses significant challenges in terms of health and social protection.

With a total budget of 892.8 million dirhams over seven years, the national strategy for the health of the elderly is ambitious in its means. The primary source of funding comes from the state budget (805.3 million dirhams), supplemented by contributions from cooperation partners (86.5 million dirhams).

Source: Aujourd'hui le Maroc

  
ANEF Highlights Morocco's Contribution to Sustainable Forest Management

The Director General of the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), Abderrahim Houmy, emphasized Morocco's crucial role in global efforts towards sustainable forest management during the first International Conference on Afforestation and Reforestation (CIAR) held in Brazzaville from July 2 to 5, 2024.

Morocco's active participation in this international conference reaffirms "its commitment to international cooperation for sustainable forest management and combating climate change," according to ANEF. The conference highlighted the importance of the "Forests of Morocco 2020-2030" strategy in mitigating and adapting to climate change while contributing to sustainable development goals such as poverty reduction, ecosystem restoration, and promoting access to sustainable energy.

The conference concluded with the adoption of a declaration by heads of state and government calling for the inclusion of the African and Global Decade of Afforestation on the United Nations agenda. This declaration also supports a coordinated and effective global strategy for afforestation and reforestation.

Source: Aujourd'hui le Maroc

EdFaPay, Saudi Fintech, Enters Moroccan Market

EdFaPay, a pioneering Saudi fintech company, announced today that it has received official approval to operate in Morocco. This strategic expansion marks a significant milestone in EdFaPay's international growth, aiming to offer its innovative electronic payment solutions to Moroccan merchants and professional clients.

Specializing in secure and efficient electronic payment solutions, EdFaPay offers mobile payment terminals (Soft POS) and payment gateways tailored to the specific needs of businesses of all sizes. Leveraging its expertise and cutting-edge technology, EdFaPay is committed to providing Moroccan stakeholders with a smooth, secure, and simplified transaction experience.

EdFaPay's expansion into Morocco aligns with the country's growing trend of adopting electronic payment solutions. The Saudi fintech joins a burgeoning market, previously dominated by banks and large companies, but now witnessing the rising emergence of innovative startups like EdFaPay.

Source: LE MATIN DU SAHARA

  
Attijariwafa Bank and Al Akhawayn University Strengthen Collaboration

Attijariwafa Bank and Al Akhawayn University have signed a new partnership agreement aimed at strengthening their collaboration in the field of education and youth employability. This partnership reflects the shared commitment of both institutions to contribute to the emergence of a new generation of skilled and job-ready talents.

This new agreement solidifies the excellent relationship between Attijariwafa Bank and Al Akhawayn University, who have been working together for several years to enhance the skills of young people. It will accelerate collaboration between the two entities and implement innovative programs to promote youth employability.

By signing this new partnership agreement, Attijariwafa Bank and Al Akhawayn University reaffirm their strong commitment to Moroccan youth. They are convinced that this partnership will help foster the emergence of a generation of qualified, competent young talents ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Source: LE MATIN DU SAHARA

Second Edition of the Marrakech Economic Parliamentary Forum

The House of Councillors and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) are set to host the second edition of the Marrakech Economic Parliamentary Forum, which will take place from July 11 to 12 under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This major event will bring together parliamentarians, economic actors, and civil society representatives from the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions to discuss common challenges and opportunities in key areas such as energy transition and support for entrepreneurship.

The organization of this second edition of the Marrakech Economic Parliamentary Forum demonstrates PAM's strong commitment to strengthening parliamentary cooperation among countries in the region. This forum provides a valuable platform for key stakeholders to discuss common strategies aimed at promoting economic prosperity and sustainable development in the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions.

The Marrakech Economic Parliamentary Forum aims to be a space for constructive dialogue and collaboration among various stakeholders in the region. It offers a unique opportunity to share experiences, forge partnerships, and define concrete actions to address common challenges and promote sustainable and inclusive development in the Euro-Mediterranean and Gulf regions.

Source: LIBERATION

Morocco Enters the Carbon Market to Finance Its Energy Transition

Morocco is poised to take a significant step forward in its energy transition by joining the international carbon market. This mechanism will allow the country to sell "carbon credits" to polluting nations, generating valuable revenue to fund its green energy projects and contribute to achieving its ambitious climate goals.

Morocco's entry into the carbon market is the result of a lengthy preparation process now reaching its final phase. Moroccan authorities have identified two priority frameworks for carbon offset implementation: Law 40-19 on renewable energies and Law 82-21 on self-production.

To ensure optimal participation of the private sector in this new mechanism, a consultation will be launched soon. This initiative will explain the functioning of the carbon market, its eligibility criteria, and the opportunities it offers to green project developers.

Source: L'Opinion

SONACOS: Tender to Strengthen Fertilizer Stocks

The National Seed Marketing Company (SONACOS), a major player in the Moroccan agricultural sector, has issued a tender for the supply, blending, and transport of NPK Blend fertilizers. This call aims to strengthen SONACOS's strategic stocks and support Moroccan farmers in improving their productivity.

NPK Blend fertilizer, composed of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is essential for the growth and development of crops. Its use enhances soil fertility, increases yields, and strengthens plant resistance to diseases.

The SONACOS tender covers significant volumes of NPK Blend fertilizers, with defined minimum and maximum quantities for each stage of the service: transport (200,000 to 400,000 tons), blending (193,600 to 387,200 tons), bagging, and loading (200,000 to 400,000 tons). The fertilizers will be packaged in 50 kg bags labeled with clear information on their composition and usage instructions.

Source: Les Inspirations Eco