Morocco accelerates desalination and dam projects to secure water by 2030

Friday 11 July 2025 - 10:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco accelerates desalination and dam projects to secure water by 2030

Morocco is intensifying efforts to combat water scarcity by ramping up seawater desalination and dam construction projects, aiming to secure an annual desalination capacity of 1.7 billion cubic meters by 2030. These initiatives are part of the National Program for Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation 2020–2027, as announced by Nizar Baraka, Minister of Equipment and Water, during a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch in Rabat.

Addressing Morocco's water crisis

Despite recent improvements in water reserves, Morocco continues to face significant challenges due to rising temperatures and recurring droughts. Rural areas and villages remain particularly vulnerable, with limited access to drinking water. In response, the government has deployed water tankers and fast-tracked measures to enhance dam infrastructure and water management systems.

Baraka emphasized that the government is prioritizing the efficient use of resources while accelerating critical water projects to ensure better access during the summer months.

Desalination at the forefront

Seawater desalination plays a central role in Morocco’s long-term water strategy, especially to support coastal cities and alleviate pressure on traditional water sources. The country is working on several desalination projects, including the Dakhla desalination plant, which is 70% complete and will have an annual capacity of 37 million cubic meters.

By 2030, the government aims to redirect traditional water resources to agriculture while desalinated water will meet urban demands. This approach seeks to balance Morocco's water needs across economic sectors.

Enhancing dam infrastructure

In addition to desalination, Morocco is reshaping and accelerating the construction of key dams. In January, the nation’s agricultural dams held 3.71 billion cubic meters of water, representing a filling rate of just 26%. The government’s focus on improving dam capacity aims to bolster water storage and distribution, particularly in light of increasing climate stress.

These combined efforts reflect a strategic push to strengthen Morocco’s water security framework, ensuring access to drinking water and supporting agricultural sustainability in the face of ongoing environmental challenges.