Casablanca- In a move aimed at fortifying infrastructure development in Morocco, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has announced a financial package totaling a substantial $266 million to fund the completion of a crucial highway linking Guercif to Nador in the eastern part of the country.

The financing package comprises $216 million from the African Development Bank itself, with an additional $50 million sourced from the “Africa Grow Together Fund.” This significant investment underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting Morocco’s ambitious infrastructure projects, particularly in the transportation sector.

Transportation infrastructure forms a cornerstone of economic growth and development in Morocco, with the sector contributing a notable 15 percent of state revenues and employing 5 percent of the active population. This contribution is further reflected in its 2.8 percent share of the national GDP as of 2022.

The highway project aligns with Morocco’s broader strategy of modernizing transport infrastructure to enhance the country’s logistical competitiveness and attractiveness. By linking the industrial port complex of Nador in the western Mediterranean to Morocco’s highway network, the project aims to facilitate smoother connectivity, attract increased investments, and unlock new economic opportunities while creating jobs in the region.

Furthermore, the initiative seeks to address critical concerns regarding road safety along the Guercif-Nador axis, thereby enhancing the overall transportation experience for commuters and businesses alike. By integrating the future port of Nador into the highway network, the project aims to facilitate the efficient movement of goods, thereby boosting trade volumes in the region and benefiting cities along the corridor, including Nador and Guercif.

Highlighting the anticipated outcomes of the project, a spokesperson emphasized the expected strengthening of the eastern region’s logistical competitiveness. This would be achieved by streamlining access to the western Mediterranean port of Nador and its upcoming industrial zone. Additionally, the project aims to reduce transportation costs and vehicle maintenance expenses while improving road safety, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents in the eastern region.

The infusion of $266 million into the highway project signifies a significant step forward in Morocco’s quest for robust infrastructure development. With the backing of the African Development Bank, the project is poised to not only enhance connectivity but also stimulate economic growth and prosperity in the region for years to come.