The International Conference on Organic Agriculture and Agroecology started on Monday in Rabat, joining national and international stakeholders committed to sustainable agricultural transformation, according to Morocco’s News Agency (MAP).
Redouane Arrach, Secretary General of the Ministry, said that the conference reflects Morocco’s commitment to environmentally sustainable agriculture, noting that “organic farming plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity, reducing the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers, and maintaining soil quality.”
Arrach also commended such joint initiatives with international partners, particularly the collaboration with Germany, which has supported projects for capacity-building, technical assistance, and infrastructure funding in organic agriculture. He underscored Germany’s role as a strategic partner for sustainable agriculture in Morocco.
The sesecretary-generallso highlighted the need for greater investment in research and innovation to promote eco-friendly farming practices. “Organic and ecological agriculture offer viable alternatives for building a safer and more prosperous agricultural future for Morocco and the planet,” Arrach said.
Abdelaziz El Hraiki, Director of the Hassan II Institute, stated: “The institute has long been committed to training generations of researchers and agricultural engineers equipped to support Morocco’s evolving agricultural model.” He highlighted the institute’s leading role in innovation and promoting sustainable practices focusing on integrated and ecological approaches in the agricultural sector.
“International collaboration, especially with experienced partners like Germany, enriches our approach by providing insights and resources to enhance our impact on the ground,” El Hraiki said. Amid his comments, he called for a robust commitment from academia, private sector stakeholders, and public institutions to accelerate the transition to resilient, sustainable agriculture.
Germany’s Ambassador to Morocco Robert Dölger highlighted the importance of the countries’ cooperation in organic and ecological agriculture. Dölger indicated the importance of these areas in addressing climate change challenges affecting many countries, including Morocco.
He applauded the Moroccan-German partnership, describing Morocco as “a key partner with notable economic and social development, stability, and potential as a producer and exporter of renewable energy and agricultural products.”
This three-day conference would advance the competitiveness of organic agriculture by creating a platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange among specialists and practitioners. Participants will explore modern practices and techniques in organic agriculture, contributing to sustainable development and food security through presentations and academic discussions led by researchers and field experts.
The conference at the Hassan II Institute of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine will run until November 13 and was sponsored by Morocco’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water, and Forests, in partnership with Germany’s Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, as part of the Moroccan-German Agricultural and Forestry Technical Dialogue Program (DIAF).