European Funding of €70 Million to Enhance Water Security in Morocco
On Monday, the European Investment Bank signed a financing agreement worth €70 million with the National Office for Electricity and Drinking Water. The agreement aims to upgrade water infrastructure across various regions in Morocco, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized cities and rural areas. This initiative is a response to escalating climate challenges and increasing demand for vital water resources, representing a strategic move to bolster national water security.
The funding, backed by guarantees from the European Union, will be earmarked for updating equipment, minimizing network losses, and improving energy efficiency in water distribution facilities. This is in response to rising pressures associated with higher temperatures, frequent droughts, and increased consumption. The project is part of the National Office’s investment plan for the 2025-2030 period and complements reconstruction efforts following the September 2023 earthquake, aligning with the National Program for Drinking Water and Irrigation 2020-2027.
Iwanis Tsakiris, Vice President of the European Investment Bank, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting sustainable water solutions in Morocco. European Union Ambassador Patricia Lombard-Kusak praised the long-standing partnership with the kingdom, noting that EU investments and those from member states have exceeded €22 billion over the past two decades to support reforms and infrastructure.
Tarek Hamane, General Director of the National Office for Electricity and Drinking Water, stated that this project will enhance reliable access to drinking water for the population and improve the management of traditional water resources to more effectively and sustainably address the impacts of drought.
