The Casablanca-Settat Regional Council unanimously approved several projects on Thursday to fund infrastructure and development ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Key decisions focused on enhancing sports facilities and connectivity. The council approved agreements with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Sports, the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), and the communal council of Bouskoura.
The agreements cover rehabilitating stadiums designated to host AFCON 2025 matches. The Council amended existing arrangements with the National Public Equipment Agency (ANEP) to ensure that the venues meet international standards.
Improving road access to the region’s stadiums also received significant attention. The council updated an agreement with the Ministry of Economy and Finance, Equipment and Water, and other stakeholders to fund expropriations and relocate utility networks in urban areas such as Bouznika and Mansouria. Regional Multiservice Company and utility provider Redal will oversee the network relocation projects.
The council also endorsed several broader initiatives to push for economic and environmental progress, including an agreement to fund urban and intercity bus systems.
Regarding waste management, the council authorized a deal with national ministries to enhance household waste disposal services. Another partnership, focused on improving water supply and sustainability, was also ratified.
In addition, the council adopted plans to develop the Zenata integrated industrial zone and revise other projects in El Jadida and Mediouna provinces to support local economic growth.
Council President Abdellatif Maazouz said the region’s programs must accord with Morocco’s advanced regionalization strategy. He noted that the King’s recent directives have outlined a roadmap to deepen decentralization, reduce territorial disparities, and improve essential services. He also highlighted the council’s commitment to implementing these plans in coordination with local and national partners.
The council also approved a partnership with the Association of Women Business Leaders of Morocco to fund “She Start,” a project intended to empower women entrepreneurs in the region.
While the council made significant progress on several projects, it postponed discussions on a cultural initiative with the Ministry of Youth and Communication. Designed to diversify cultural activities across the region, the initiative will be addressed later as part of the 2022–2027 development plan.