Launch of Zakoura Consultations to Draft the New Generation of Integrated Territorial Development Programs
The province of Zakoura hosted a consultative meeting on Thursday, dedicated to discussing and preparing the new generation of integrated territorial development programs. This initiative is part of a national dynamic aimed at modernizing planning methodologies and enhancing the effectiveness of development projects.
The meeting was chaired by the provincial governor, Mr. Mohamed Alami Widan, in the presence of elected officials, heads of external departments, representatives of professional organizations, economic actors, as well as members of both the associative and cooperative sectors. The objective was to initiate the preparation of the integrated territorial development program at the provincial level.
In his opening speech, the governor emphasized that this meeting aligns with the implementation of the royal directives outlined in the speeches of His Majesty King Mohammed VI on the occasion of the Throne Day and the opening of the first session of the legislative year. These speeches underscored the necessity of launching a new generation of development programs based on listening, communication, and positive interaction with citizens.
He clarified that this new model of development, based on broad participatory approaches, represents a qualitative step toward achieving equitable spatial justice and strengthening local competencies. The success of this national project requires the collective efforts of all local stakeholders to diagnose the challenges and identify the imbalances within the province, focusing on projects that have a direct impact on citizens’ lives.
Mr. Alami Widan noted that the new generation of integrated programs prioritizes four key areas:
- Support for employment,
- Improvement of basic services, particularly in the health and education sectors,
- Sustainable management of water resources,
- Integrated regional and spatial rehabilitation.
The meeting featured a detailed presentation on the methodology for developing these programs, analyzing territorial data, setting priorities, and approval mechanisms, while emphasizing a participatory approach based on consultation and listening.
A broad discussion took place during the session, involving representatives from external departments, public institutions, elected officials, economic actors, youth, and members of the associative and cooperative sectors. They addressed the main developmental challenges faced by the province in areas such as health, education, infrastructure, social economy, oasis protection, and water resources.
In statements to the Moroccan News Agency, participants stressed the importance of this meeting, which enabled the identification of developmental needs and priorities for each territorial community. They affirmed the necessity of expediting the preparation of the regional integrated territorial development program through the formulation of realistic and effective projects that consider the unique characteristics of the province and meet the expectations of its residents.
