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Morocco's Strategic Pursuit of Food Sovereignty: Minister of Agriculture Outlines Key Initiatives
In a recent seminar hosted by the National Rally of Independents (RNI), Minister of Agriculture Mohamed Sadiki provided an in-depth overview of Morocco’s ongoing efforts and strategies to secure food sovereignty amidst an era of economic volatility and environmental challenges.
Addressing the audience in Fez, Minister Sadiki highlighted the pivotal measures undertaken by his ministry to bolster investment in agriculture, particularly in the wake of the unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Central to these efforts, he noted, are strategies designed to combat inflation and revitalize citizens' purchasing power, underscoring these as paramount priorities for the government.
Adaptation and Resilience in Agriculture
Minister Sadiki detailed the extensive actions Morocco has implemented to adapt its agricultural sector to the shifting environmental landscape, emphasizing the necessity of resilience in the face of climate change. Despite encountering unforeseen hurdles, the government remains steadfast in pursuing its established programs, continually refining strategies to align with evolving circumstances and long-term objectives.
"Adaptability is essential to ensure the resilience and sustainability of Morocco's agricultural sector," Sadiki remarked, underlining the dynamic approach adopted by the ministry.
Economic and Social Impact of Agriculture
A 2019 report from the Ministry of Finance underscores agriculture's critical role in Morocco's economy, accounting for approximately 38% of national employment and about 74% in rural areas. Although agriculture no longer holds the top spot as the largest employing sector as of 2024, it still retains a significant share of the labor force at 30%.
The Role of Academia in Agricultural Policy
The minister also emphasized the crucial contribution of academia in formulating effective agricultural policies. He praised university professors for their role in developing well-informed policies that drive impactful results.
Minister Sadiki stressed the importance of qualitative higher education in propelling the country forward. He referenced planned investments under the Fez-Meknes Regional Development Plan (PDR) 2022-2027, which allocates a total budget of MAD 30 billion ($3 billion) towards enhancing the higher education sector.
Investments in Higher Education and Research
Part of this significant investment includes nearly MAD 2 billion ($200 million) dedicated to modernizing university infrastructure, establishing new centers of excellence, and strengthening research and innovation within the region. This budget also encompasses MAD 40 million ($4 million) earmarked for scientific research and the creation of specialized institutes focusing on artificial intelligence in Fez, Meknes, and Taza.
Additional initiatives include the inauguration of a National School of Commerce and Management (ENCG) in Meknes, the establishment of the first school dedicated to agri-food industry techniques, and the creation of a dental faculty in Meknes.
In summary, Morocco's strategic efforts to secure food sovereignty are multifaceted, involving substantial investments in agriculture, education, and research. These initiatives underscore the government's commitment to fostering a resilient, sustainable agricultural sector capable of withstanding future challenges and ensuring the nation's economic stability.