The Moroccan Ministry of Equipment and Water, in collaboration with the German and Danish embassies, launched a EUR 12 million water resource management project on Monday in the High Atlas region, which was heavily impacted by the September 2023 earthquake, Morocco’s Press Agency (MAP) reported.
Dubbed “Sustainable Territories – Sustainable and Resilient Lifestyles in Morocco,” the initiative would address water scarcity and promote inclusive economic development.
Co-financed by the German and Danish governments, the project will be implemented by the German development agency “GIZ.” The project focuses on enhancing water resource governance, reconstructing infrastructure, boosting economic recovery, and developing innovative solutions for natural resource management. A key component involves establishing the Ourika River Contract to strengthen local water management.
Morocco’s Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, highlighted the government’s response to the earthquake under King Mohammed VI’s leadership. He pointed out measures to ensure potable water access, reinforce water infrastructure, and preserve natural resources critical to rural communities.
Baraka commended Germany and Denmark’s support, which he described as vital to Morocco’s water sector and this transformative project.
Meanwhile, German Ambassador Robert Dölger pointed out the importance of integrated adaptation approaches to improve living conditions and promote sustainable economic activities in the region. He also reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to global climate adaptation efforts.
Danish Ambassador Berit Basse echoed this sentiment, noting that achieving the project’s ambitious goals requires social and technical innovation. She said that Denmark is proud to contribute to improving living conditions and nature-based solutions for local communities.
Director General of the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), Abderrahim Houmy, described the initiative as a “beacon of hope for earthquake-affected areas.” He said that it aligns with Morocco’s strategy to address environmental and water challenges, which were worsened by climate change.
Key stakeholders formalized the project through two agreements. Abdelaziz Zerouali, Director General of Hydraulic Engineering, signed a contract with GIZ representatives Doreen Fontaine and Anne Chaponniere to initiate the project.
A second agreement defined the implementation terms between Mohamed Chtioui, Director of the Tensift Hydraulic Basin Agency, and Abdelaziz Hajjaji, Regional Director of ANEF for Marrakech-Safi.