U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Samantha Power lauded on Friday Morocco for its significant strides in energy transition, noting its role as a “catalyst” for green economy transformation at the regional level.
At the ceremony to introduce Randy Ali as the new USAID Mission Director in Morocco in Washington, Power highlighted Morocco’s capabilities in fertilizer production and export, as well as its commitment to generating over one-third of its electricity from renewable sources. Moroccan Ambassador to the U.S., Youssef Amraniة was among the attendees.
Power pointed out Morocco’s goal to increase the share of renewable energies in the electricity mix to 52% by 2030, saying that this ambition makes Morocco “a leader not only in the region but worldwide.”
Reflecting on her recent visit to Morocco, Power noted the “extraordinary” determination she observed in advancing progress and development.
She also underscored the growing partnership between USAID and Morocco, revealing that since 2021, the agency has more than doubled its funding to local organizations in Morocco, increasing from 16% in 2021 to nearly 40% in 2023.
Amrani expressed appreciation for the “exceptional and long-standing” cooperation between USAID and Morocco, highlighting the “crucial role” of USAID programs in education, water management, public health, microfinance, and women’s empowerment.
He also pointed out the significant potential for enhancing collaboration in key areas such as food security and water management.
Regionally, Amrani emphasized the importance of further developing trilateral projects in Africa, building on recent initiatives with Morocco’s phosphate and fertilizer giant, the OCP Groupe.
in agriculture.
Amrani discussed Morocco’s public policies designed to stimulate, support, and deepen development dynamics across strategic sectors, affirming that these strategies focus on human development as the core objective of efforts to enhance inclusive prosperity both nationally and across Africa.
Ali noted his intention to contribute beyond bilateral cooperation to strengthen Morocco’s leadership in Africa through strategic and targeted project funding, particularly in food security and health.