Morocco is chairing the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests, taking place at the UN headquarters in New York from May 5 to 9. The kingdom is represented by Abdel Rahim Houmi, the Director General of the National Agency for Water and Forests. This event serves as a major international platform for discussing global forest-related challenges and opportunities, reflecting Morocco’s growing role in strategic environmental issues.
The current session focuses on assessing progress in implementing the UN Strategy for Forests 2017-2030, with special attention to the social, economic, and environmental aspects of forest ecosystems. Discussions will also address mobilizing funding, enhancing scientific and technical cooperation, and improving governance to achieve sustainable forest management.
Morocco has seized this opportunity to present its national strategy “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” as a practical model for addressing climate change and biodiversity loss while strengthening the resilience of rural communities. In his address, Abdel Rahim Houmi emphasized the interplay between this strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly regarding poverty alleviation, ecosystem restoration, and expanding access to clean energy.
In this context, Houmi announced that Morocco will host an international event in June 2025 in Agadir, dedicated to sharing experiences in community forest management, technological applications, and sustainable financing mechanisms. This meeting aims to develop practical solutions and intensify the exchange of successful practices among countries and stakeholders.
This year, Morocco has been elected as the Vice President of the forum for the 2024-2026 term, represented by Abdel Rahim Houmi on behalf of the African continent. This election reflects the international trust in Morocco, thanks to its ongoing commitment to environmental issues, aligning with the royal vision aimed at ensuring sustainable and inclusive development.
The United Nations Forum on Forests was established in 2000 by the UN Economic and Social Council and is concerned with promoting the sustainable management of all types of forests globally, facilitating their protection and development, thereby supporting both ecological balance and local economies.
