Date: January 16, 2024
In a bid to tackle the pressing issue of water scarcity amid a significant deficit in precipitation, His Majesty King Mohammed VI of Morocco presided over a crucial meeting at the Royal Palace in Rabat on January 16, 2024. The meeting focused on the ongoing water crisis and outlined urgent measures to address the situation, given the current challenges posed by a 70% rainfall deficit and a mere 23.2% dam fill rate.
The Minister of Equipment and Water, Mr. Nizar Baraka, presented a comprehensive overview of the water situation during the meeting. The data highlighted the alarming rainfall shortage from September to mid-January 2024, along with the declining dam levels compared to the same period in the previous year.
Previous Efforts and National Water Supply Program:
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the King has consistently shown high concern for the strategic issue of water scarcity. Over the years, Morocco has implemented various initiatives, including the National Water Supply and Irrigation Program (2020-2027). This program has facilitated sufficient water supply to several provinces and regions through projects like the Sebou and Bouregreg basin interconnection and the operationalization of desalination stations in Agadir and Safi/Jorf Lasfar.
In response to the current crisis, the Minister presented an emergency action plan developed by relevant departments. This plan aims to ensure the immediate supply of potable water, especially in cities, centers, and areas facing or at risk of water deficits. The plan includes short-term measures such as optimizing resources from existing dams, wells, and desalination stations. Additionally, it outlines the creation of urgent water supply infrastructure where necessary, and, if required, measures to restrict irrigation water or distribution rates.
Medium-Term Initiatives:
The emergency action plan also includes medium-term initiatives aligned with the High Royal Directives. This involves accelerating planned projects, including the construction of ongoing dams, interconnecting the Sebou, Bouregreg, and Oum Rabia basins, the national program for seawater desalination stations, the reuse of purified wastewater, and water conservation programs within potable water and irrigation distribution networks.
King’s Directives and Public Awareness:
King Mohammed VI urged relevant departments to intensify efforts to address the water security challenge and ensure potable water supply across all regions of the country. Emphasizing the importance of transparent communication, the King called for regular updates to citizens on the evolving water situation and the implementation of emergency measures. Additionally, he stressed the need to enhance public awareness regarding water conservation and the fight against wasteful or irresponsible water usage.
The meeting was attended by key figures, including Advisor to His Majesty the King, Mr. Fouad Ali El Himma, Minister of the Interior, Mr. Abdelouafi Laftit, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Water and Forests, Mr. Mohamed Sadiki, and other high-ranking officials.
As Morocco grapples with the water crisis, the urgent measures outlined in this meeting underscore the nation’s commitment to ensuring access to clean water for its citizens and addressing the challenges posed by changing climate patterns. The King’s proactive approach highlights the importance of swift and coordinated efforts to mitigate the impact of the water scarcity crisis on the people and the environment.
