Morocco Unveils Comprehensive Water Management Strategy to Combat Escalating Scarcity Crisis
In response to growing concerns regarding water scarcity, the Moroccan government has revealed a comprehensive strategy aimed at addressing the nation's escalating water crisis. Speaking on Thursday, spokesperson Mustapha Baitas assured citizens of the government's unwavering commitment to implementing intensive measures to tackle the issue in both the medium and long term.
Baitas outlined a multi-faceted approach, which includes the development of numerous projects to bolster water security and ensure a reliable supply of drinking water across all regions. Key initiatives highlighted include the nationwide seawater desalination program, the wastewater reuse initiative, and a program dedicated to water conservation within potable water supply networks.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, the government has also pledged to enhance vigilance against the water security challenge. Measures include optimizing resource mobilization from dams, wells, and desalination plants, as well as installing emergency equipment for water transfer and supply.
Baitas further emphasized the government's commitment to the National Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation Program for 2020-2027, a significant endeavor supported by a budget of MAD 143 billion (approximately $14.3 billion). This ambitious program aims to meet the country's growing demand for water resources, safeguard water security, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
Morocco has faced one of the worst droughts in recent years, exacerbated by insufficient rainfall, climate challenges, and rising temperatures. This crisis has prompted several of Morocco's international partners to express their determination to assist the country in addressing the issue through various means, including loans.
Last December, the European Investment Bank (EIB) outlined the measures provided to Morocco and evaluated the water crisis as "severe." The bank attributed the shortage to environmental changes, a growing population, and the over-extraction of groundwater for agricultural purposes. According to the EIB, access to water in Morocco has decreased from 2,600 cubic meters per person annually in the 1960s to less than 600 cubic meters.
In response to the crisis, authorities across Moroccan provinces have implemented measures to rationalize drinking water usage, including appeals urging car washes and public hammams to cease operations three days a week. However, these efforts have faced criticism from reports highlighting the country's growing exports of water-intensive crops like avocados.
As Morocco navigates this critical juncture, the government's robust water management strategy underscores its commitment to addressing the nation's water scarcity crisis through a multifaceted approach, ensuring the long-term sustainability of this precious resource.