Morocco's Oasis of Innovation: Safi Province Quenches Thirst with Cutting-Edge Desalination

In the face of relentless drought, Morocco's Safi province has emerged as a beacon of hope, deploying state-of-the-art desalination technology to combat severe water shortages. This innovative approach is not just a drop in the ocean but a significant wave in the nation's fight against water scarcity.

At the heart of this initiative are three monobloc seawater desalination stations, strategically positioned in the communes of Ayir, Lamaachate, and El Beddouza. These technological marvels, with a combined capacity of 25 liters per second, have been brought to life through a substantial investment of 48 million Moroccan dirhams (approximately $4.8 million) from the Ministry of the Interior.

The impact of these installations is nothing short of remarkable. Since their inception, they have quenched the thirst of over 45,000 rural residents, producing a staggering 1,800 tons of water daily. To date, these units have delivered 32 million liters of life-sustaining water, managed efficiently by Safi's Autonomous Water and Electricity Distribution Authority (RADEEMA).

But this is just the beginning. RADEEMA engineer Yassine El Meliari unveiled plans to expand this hydro-revolution. "We're looking at installing 12 new stations to treat brackish water," El Meliari stated. This ambitious project, with an estimated cost of 1.2 billion dirhams ($120 million), aims to quench the thirst of an additional 97,000 Safi residents.

This local initiative is part of a larger national strategy - the National Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation Program (PNAEPI). Running from 2020 to 2027 with an initial budget of 115 billion dirhams ($11.3 billion), this program is set to transform Morocco's water landscape. It includes the acquisition of 44 monobloc desalination and demineralization units and the establishment of 219 monobloc stations, collectively managing over 70 million cubic meters of water annually.

The PNAEPI doesn't stop at desalination. It also encompasses the purchase of 1,209 tank trucks and 9,717 plastic tanks, ensuring a reliable water supply to approximately 3 million rural residents grappling with water shortages.

In a parallel development, the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) has initiated a major project in Guercif and its surrounding areas. With a budget of around 470 million dirhams ($47 million), financed by ONEE and supported by the African Development Bank, this project further underscores Morocco's commitment to innovative water solutions.

As climate change continues to exacerbate water scarcity globally, Morocco's proactive approach serves as a model for nations facing similar challenges. The Safi province's success story demonstrates that with innovation, investment, and determination, even the driest regions can find sustainable solutions to secure their water future.