Casablanca – Morocco’s direct housing assistance program has proven to be a success, attracting an impressive 110,000 applications in just one year, according to Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri, Minister of National Territorial Planning, Urbanism, Housing, and City Policy. The announcement came during a session at the House of Representatives on Monday.

Out of the total applications submitted, over 35,000 beneficiaries have already received assistance, with 26% of the recipients being Moroccan expatriates and 32% youth. The program primarily aimed at addressing housing challenges for middle and low-income families is continuing to make strides in reducing housing disparities.

In terms of financial support, 63% of the beneficiaries received $7,200 in aid, while 37% were granted $10,300. The direct housing assistance has already had a significant impact on Morocco’s construction industry, with cement sales rising by 9.45%, real estate loans increasing by 1.7%, and financing for real estate developers climbing by 7.2%.

The program has also targeted areas that previously did not benefit enough from the social housing initiative, such as Settat, El Jadida, Benslimane, Oujda, Berkane, and Taza. Additionally, the country’s annual production of housing units for lower and middle-income groups, including self-construction projects, remains strong, with approximately 113,000 units being produced annually.

El Mansouri highlighted that the 2024 program surpassed expectations, achieving 125% of its goal by reaching 94,000 housing units, well above the target of 75,000 units. This achievement is part of Morocco’s long-term strategy to reduce the housing deficit and provide decent living conditions to all citizens, particularly the underserved segments of the population.

Looking at Morocco’s broader housing programs, the country has already delivered significant results since 2002. By the end of November 2024, approximately 727,000 social housing units were built, with 680,000 units delivered and over 30,000 units under low-cost housing initiatives.

The government is now setting its sights on a new phase, with a direct housing support program running through 2028. This upcoming initiative will continue to focus on addressing the housing needs of middle and low-income groups, with an emphasis on the involvement of the private sector, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.

Morocco’s direct housing assistance program has made remarkable strides in addressing the country’s housing challenges. By offering substantial support to both local and expatriate citizens, the program has not only provided thousands with the opportunity for homeownership but also contributed to the growth of the construction sector and the economy as a whole. With its ambitious goals and a clear focus on inclusivity, particularly for middle and low-income families, this initiative is set to pave the way for a more balanced and sustainable urban development in the years to come. The ongoing commitment to this cause underscores Morocco’s determination to ensure that safe, affordable housing remains accessible to all.