Morocco Partners with US in New Water Scarcity Initiative

A new program to address water scarcity in Morocco was officially launched on Tuesday at Morocco’s National Office of Water and Electricity (ONEE) headquarters in Rabat, according to a press release issued by the US Embassy.
Developed in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Oceans, Environment, and Science, and the Department of Interior’s International Technical Assistance Program, the new “Ambassador’s Water Expert Program” (AWEP) is designed to facilitate the exchange of expertise between Moroccan and U.S. water specialists. By sharing best practices, the program aims to develop innovative solutions to combat water scarcity, a pressing global challenge.
In his Throne Day speech, King Mohammed VI highlighted the urgency of tackling water scarcity, underscoring Morocco’s proactive approach. Morocco’s ambitious plan to construct 20 desalination plants by 2030 reflects its commitment to securing a sustainable water supply for its population, furthering U.S. efforts to address similar challenges in arid regions.
The week-long program of exchanges and workshops will focus on exploring advanced desalination technologies, integrating renewable energy into water projects, and identifying practical applications for transforming seawater into potable and agricultural resources.
The collaboration furthers the U.S.’s vision of a water-secure world through promoting sustainable water management and equitable access to drinking water and sanitation services. Experts from both nations are expected to engage in discussions to exchange ideas and develop actionable strategies for addressing shared challenges.
Director General Tarik Hamane and American water experts Val Frenkel and Rick Warner, who have been collaborating with ONEE since 2022, attended the opening, along with experts and leaders from the US and Morocco.
Asma El Kasmi, Director of Cooperation and Communications at ONEE, received special recognition for her instrumental role in bringing the initiative to fruition.
The importance of water as a vital resource for economies, health, and livelihoods was highlighted throughout the event.
U.S. Ambassador to Morocco [NAME] said he is confident that AWEP would yield meaningful advancements in water management while fostering stronger bilateral ties.