Daily Press Review - Wednesday, May 22, 2024

OCP and BERD Join Forces to Finance Construction of Seawater Desalination Plants

In a significant move towards sustainable development, the OCP Group has secured a loan of 2.2 billion Moroccan dirhams (approximately 200 million euros) from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (BERD). This financing will facilitate the construction of two seawater desalination plants, aligning with the group's ambitious Green Investment Program.

Part of OCP's overarching Green Investment Program, which boasts a total budget of 55 billion dollars, this project aims to transition the group to exclusively utilize non-conventional water sources and clean energy by 2027. The construction of the two seawater desalination plants stands as a pivotal pillar in this strategy, allowing OCP to significantly reduce its water footprint and contribute to preserving Morocco's water resources.

With a combined capacity of 500 million cubic meters per year, these plants will ensure water self-sufficiency for OCP's industrial and mining sites. Moreover, they will also contribute to the potable water supply of Safi, El Jadida, and surrounding areas, benefitting over 1.5 million people.

This project holds particular significance amid Morocco's increasing water stress. The country grapples with dwindling water resources, making non-conventional water production all the more imperative. OCP's commitment to seawater desalination underscores its exemplary corporate social and environmental responsibility.

Source: Le Matin du Sahara

BAD and BCP Ink $70 Million Agreement to Boost Trade in Africa

The African Development Bank (BAD) and Banque Centrale Populaire (BCP) have inked a Risk Sharing Agreement (APR) totaling 70 million US dollars. This agreement aims to stimulate private sector financing and invigorate trade across Africa.

The new agreement will bolster financial inclusion for African economic players, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It will also strengthen their capacity in international trade by facilitating access to necessary financing for their commercial operations.

The agreement is projected to catalyze nearly 200 million euros in trade between African countries. Additionally, it is expected to create new business opportunities and jobs across the continent.

This agreement marks a significant milestone in the partnership between BAD and BCP. Both institutions are committed to collaborating to promote economic development and regional integration in Africa.

Source: Le Matin du Sahara

Chellah Archaeological Site Reopens After Restoration: A Dive into History and New Experiences for Visitors

The Chellah Archaeological Site, designated as a historic monument since 1920 and inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage list in 2012, has reopened to the public following extensive restoration work initiated in 2021. This architectural and historical gem, nestled in the heart of Morocco's capital, now benefits from a new management model aimed at valorizing it and making it accessible to all.

The Chellah Archaeological Site is a cultural treasure trove, housing remnants of an ancient city, a Merinid necropolis, and splendid gardens. It serves as a testament to Morocco's rich history, offering visitors a captivating journey through time.

To preserve this exceptional site and make it accessible to a broader audience, the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication has entrusted the management and operation of the site to the "Rabat Region Historical Heritage Development Company" (RRPH).

Source: Le Matin du Sahara

Combatting Illiteracy in Rural Areas: Ministry of Agriculture and ANLCA Partner to Train 500,000 Individuals

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, alongside the National Agency for Combating Illiteracy (ANLCA), have entered a partnership agreement to establish a cooperative framework to combat functional illiteracy among agricultural workers and their communities in rural areas.

This ambitious program aims to train 500,000 beneficiaries, both men and women, by 2030. It falls within the framework of strengthening the alignment of Moroccan public policies by integrating illiteracy eradication into sectoral programs and development initiatives.

This agreement underscores Morocco's commitment to prioritizing human development as the ultimate goal. Indeed, the fight against illiteracy is a crucial lever for empowering individuals and enabling their active participation in economic and social life.

Source: Les Inspirations Eco

Ministry of Industry and AFEM Pledge to Boost Women Entrepreneurship in the Industry: 2,200 Women to be Supported Within 2 Years

The Ministry of Industry and Trade, in collaboration with the Association of Women Business Leaders of Morocco (AFEM), have forged a strategic partnership to stimulate female entrepreneurship in the national industrial sector. The signing of a partnership agreement marks the launch of the "She Industriel" program, an ambitious initiative aimed at supporting over 2,200 women in their entrepreneurial journey within two years.

"She Industriel" is designed as a tailored support program to address the specific needs of women aspiring to enter the industry. It will offer a range of services and concrete support, including information and guidance, access to finance, capacity building, and assistance in business creation and development.

This program aims to overcome the obstacles faced by women entrepreneurs in the industrial sector and create an enabling environment for their success. This includes promoting access to industrial land, facilitating market access, and fostering strategic partnerships.

Source: Les Inspirations Eco

Operation Transit 2024: Moroccan-Spanish Joint Commission Meets in Tangier to Finalize Preparations

The Moroccan-Spanish joint transit commission convened in Tangier on Monday, May 20, under the co-chairmanship of Khalid Zerouali, Wali, Director of Migration and Border Surveillance in Morocco, and Susana Crisostomo, Spanish Deputy Secretary of State for the Interior. This crucial meeting aimed to finalize preparations for Operation Transit 2024, an annual initiative to facilitate the passage of Moroccans residing abroad (MREs) during the summer period.

Discussions between the two parties focused on all operational aspects of Operation Transit 2024, with the goal of ensuring a smooth and secure passage for MREs returning to Morocco for the summer holidays.

Source: Aujourd'hui le Maroc

Casablanca Smart City 2024: A Must-Attend Event for Urban Innovation

Casablanca Events & Animation, the organizer of the event, has announced that the 8th edition of Casablanca Smart City will take place on June 5th and 6th, 2024, at the Sacré-Cœur Church in Casablanca. This edition will be held under the theme "Metropolization and Urban Challenges: Towards Smart and Sustainable Cities," shedding light on the significant challenges cities face amidst rapid urban growth.

Casablanca Smart City is an annual forum that brings together key stakeholders in urban planning, technological innovation, and sustainable development. The 2024 edition will gather experts, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and civil society representatives to share their experiences and explore innovative solutions for growing urban challenges.

Source: Aujourd'hui le Maroc

Switzerland Confirms Absence of Official Representation of Polisario on its Territory: A New Setback for Separatists

The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) has issued an official verbal note to the Moroccan Embassy in Bern, confirming the absence of official representation of the Polisario Front in Switzerland. This clear and firm statement constitutes another significant setback for the separatists and strengthens Morocco's position on the Sahara issue.

The FDFA's verbal note specifies that "the Polisario office in Geneva enjoys no privileges or immunities in Switzerland." This clarification underscores that the Polisario does not have any official recognition from Swiss authorities, and its activities on Swiss territory do not benefit from any particular status.

The FDFA reiterates its position of neutrality and impartiality concerning the Sahara conflict, in line with international law and United Nations Security Council resolutions. Switzerland calls for a peaceful and sustainable solution to this dispute, based on dialogue and respect for international law.

Source: Al Bayane