National Thrust on Water Sustainability Gains Momentum Following Throne Day Address
In a decisive move to confront the nation's pressing water challenges, Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch presided over a pivotal steering committee meeting for the National Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation Program 2020-2027. This session, held on Tuesday, witnessed the participation of key ministers, including Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit, Equipment and Water Minister Nizar Baraka, and Agriculture Minister Mohamed Sadiki.
The assembly, convened in the northern city of M'diq, aimed at devising robust strategies to enhance the program's execution and ensure continuous updates, thereby accelerating critical investments in the water sector. The discussions were significantly influenced by the recent royal speech commemorating the 25th anniversary of Throne Day, wherein King Mohammed VI emphasized the urgency of implementing innovative measures to tackle water scarcity.
Prime Minister Akhannouch reiterated the essential points highlighted in the monarch's address, which underscored vital areas needing attention to alleviate water-related issues. The Prime Minister stressed the necessity for dynamic updates to the national water policy frameworks and the prompt realization of related projects.
"In line with our proactive and ambitious Strategic Vision, we call for accelerated implementation of major water transfer projects," King Mohammed VI declared in his address, underscoring the importance of the 2020-2027 program. Akhannouch affirmed the government's commitment to fulfilling all facets of the program with requisite speed and efficiency to mitigate the ongoing water stress.
The Prime Minister urged relevant departments and stakeholders to expedite water-related investments and their implementation. He also announced that the steering committee would increase the frequency of its meetings to closely monitor the progress of various initiatives.
Among the key directives from the royal speech was the call for continuous refinement of the national water policy to ensure universal access to drinking water and fulfill at least 80% of irrigation needs. The King also proposed the establishment of a "water police" to oversee and regulate excessive water consumption and wasteful practices, asserting that water conservation is a national duty involving all institutions, stakeholders, and citizens.
King Mohammed VI commended the positive impact of water desalination plants, particularly in the southern provinces of Morocco, with a special mention of Dakhla. Reflecting this royal endorsement, Dakhla announced the allocation of nearly MAD 250 million ($25 million) the following day to enhance its potable water supply and wastewater management systems.
This intensified focus on water sustainability marks a significant step towards addressing Morocco's water scarcity issues, aligning with the broader national vision for sustainable development and resource management.
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