Casablanca-Settat region embarks on a new phase with a development model worth 64 billion dirhams.
The Casablanca-Settat region has launched an unprecedented development program for the period 2022-2027, with a total investment of 64.2 billion dirhams, reinforcing its position as the economic engine of the country.
This new model is characterized by self-financing and direct borrowing from the financial market without state guarantees, marking a first in the history of regional administrations.
During a press conference in Casablanca, Abdelatif Maazouz, the president of the region, confirmed that the council is preparing to launch a direct bond loan, emphasizing that the region has gained the trust of national and international financial institutions due to its financial independence and ability to execute large projects efficiently.
The development program focuses on major areas, including infrastructure and transport, with 15.7 billion dirhams allocated to expand the urban transport network, including 2.8 billion funded by the region. The area is expected to see a revolution in rail connections through high-speed urban trains and the expansion of the bus network with 1,300 new buses by 2028.
Regarding water resource management, a financial allocation exceeding 12 billion dirhams has been set, with direct funding from the region amounting to approximately 969 million dirhams to implement smart projects, notably wastewater recycling stations, in support of environmental balance and irrigation of green areas amid ongoing drought crises.
In terms of industrial fabric, the region plans to create three new industrial zones with a total investment exceeding 4.4 billion dirhams, including a free industrial zone and logistics platforms aimed at boosting exports and creating job opportunities, especially for youth.
The plan also addresses reducing regional disparities, allocating 7.5 billion dirhams for the development of rural and vulnerable areas through social, educational, and cultural projects in partnership with local communities and civil society.
For horizontal projects, over 16 billion dirhams have been allocated to support digital transformation, participatory governance, clean energy, and sustainable urban planning. Meanwhile, the budget for health, education, and sports support amounts to 4.5 billion dirhams, with culture and creativity receiving 720 million dirhams.
This program represents a strategic shift in the philosophy of regional development management, focusing on smart partnerships, transparency, and attracting international financing, supported by the capabilities of financial centers like the Casablanca Financial Center, offering the region promising investment prospects in a competitive international environment.
