Morocco's Ambitious Social Protection Initiative to Cost $3 Billion by 2025

Budget Planning Prioritizes Sustaining Project Momentum, Says Minister Fouzi Lekjaa.

Morocco’s extensive social protection initiative is expected to require a substantial investment of MAD 29 billion ($3 billion) by 2025, as announced by Fouzi Lekjaa, Minister Delegate for the Budget.

In an address delivered on Tuesday in Rabat, Lekjaa outlined the financial trajectory and future prospects of the project, which is set to significantly reform the nation’s social welfare system.

During a session in the Chamber of Counselors, Lekjaa revealed that since the project's launch, a total of MAD 17.45 billion ($1.7 billion) has already been allocated. Notably, in July alone, MAD 2.04 billion ($200 million) were distributed, impacting 3.8 million families.

The social protection initiative, inaugurated by King Mohammed VI, was characterized by Lekjaa as a transformative effort. He commended the government for adhering to the stringent timeline established by the framework law guiding the initiative.

“Maintaining the project’s momentum is a top priority in budget planning,” Lekjaa stated, emphasizing the critical need for sustained financial commitment.

Framework Law No. 09-21, which governs the initiative, delineates essential principles for financing, including a thorough review of the more than 90 existing social programs, which currently incur significant costs.

To ensure the project's longevity, Lekjaa highlighted several strategic measures, such as the introduction of a social solidarity contribution and revenue from one-time contributions.

He argued that revising social programs and ensuring stable funding through these contributions are vital for the successful continuation of the social protection initiative.

Morocco’s plan to broaden social protection has received international acclaim. Recently, the United Nations praised the country for its efforts to enhance and expand its social welfare system.

“Morocco's endeavors to broaden the scope, adequacy, and inclusiveness of its social protection deserve commendation from all quarters,” remarked Li Junhua, Deputy Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs of the UN.

The commitment and strategic planning demonstrated by the Moroccan government underscore the importance of this initiative, which aims to provide comprehensive social protection to millions of citizens. As the project progresses, the eyes of the international community remain fixed on Morocco's ambitious path towards a more inclusive and equitable social welfare system.