Casablanca – Morocco has embarked on a dual initiative to reinforce its agricultural and water resilience, showcasing its commitment through two significant endeavors. Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water, and Forests, Mohamed Sadiki, led discussions at the 33rd regional conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization for Africa in Rabat, unveiling Morocco’s agricultural resilience strategies for sustainable food security.

Sadiki underscored Morocco’s robust initiatives, such as the “Green Morocco” plan initiated in 2008 and the subsequent “Green Generation” strategy launched in 2020. These strategies play a crucial role in bolstering food sovereignty and security through sustainable agricultural practices. The minister emphasized the urgent need to address climate change’s impact on agriculture, highlighting the fisheries sector’s pivotal role in enhancing food security.

The conference provided a vital platform for dialogue on practical solutions for food security and rural development, aligning with the Food and Agriculture Organization’s objectives for transformative changes in food systems across the continent. Given regional challenges, including a 30% reduction in water resources due to climate change impacts, coordinated efforts and innovative strategies are imperative to ensure sustainable food production and security.

Moreover, Morocco and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) solidified their collaboration with an important project agreement on water resilience, a cornerstone of the 2013 Water Scarcity Initiative. The agreement, signed on the sidelines of the 16th International Agriculture Exhibition (SIAM) in Meknes, represents a significant step towards enhancing water resilience in the country.

With a budget of approximately $31.5 million, the project aims to fortify the resilience of food systems and water services against the impacts of climate change, while facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise to bolster food and water security. This initiative builds upon the success of a preceding project titled “Water Efficiency, Productivity, and Sustainability in the NENA Region,” supported financially by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency.

The 16th SIAM exhibition, themed “Climate and Agriculture: For Sustainable and Resilient Production Systems,” has provided a platform for nearly 70 countries to showcase agricultural innovations and solutions. With Spain honored as the guest nation, the event has attracted over 1,500 exhibitors and anticipates over 950,000 visitors. The diverse program, comprising conferences, roundtable discussions, and interactive exhibits, underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing pressing agricultural and water challenges.