Bennali unveils a strategy for mineral sovereignty focused on worker safety and resource valuing at the heart of economic transformation
The government has announced a new strategy aimed at breaking away from traditional management of the mining sector, by moving towards mineral and industrial sovereignty that prioritizes worker safety and the appreciation of national resources. It stressed that the sector has become a crucial driver of the national economy, contributing nearly 10% of gross domestic product and 20% of exports.
Leila Bennali, the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, highlighted during her responses to parliamentary questions at the House of Councillors that OCP Group is leading this transformation through a massive investment program exceeding $13 billion from 2023 to 2027.
The minister explained that this program aims to increase the share of local industrial integration to 70%, involving around 600 Moroccan companies, and creating 25,000 jobs, thus enhancing national value chains and supporting the country’s energy transition.
On the social front, Bennali emphasized that protecting miners has been a top priority, noting that the draft amendment to the Mining Law of 2021 has been withdrawn and replaced with a new approach that prioritizes the dignity and safety of workers. In this context, she announced the establishment of a mining worker card to guarantee rights and benefits and reduce tragic accidents at exploitation sites.
Furthermore, the minister disclosed the completion of the draft law No. 72.24 regarding the valuation of manufacturing industries, which stipulates the establishment of a national committee for strategic and critical minerals, seen as central to future industries.
On an institutional level, Bennali clarified that draft law No. 56.24 concerning the transformation of the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines aims to improve governance and diversify funding sources to accelerate research and exploration efforts.
Regarding the simplification of procedures and enhancing transparency, the minister announced the launch of a digitized national mining register in the first quarter of 2026, which will encompass 40 administrative procedures and ensure transparent and equitable access to information.
In terms of regional development, Bennali revealed plans for an international competition aimed at investors concerning 450 parts of the mining area of Tafilalet and Figuig, intending to create extensive job opportunities and boost economic dynamism in the region.
For the province of Jerada, the minister reported the preparation of a comprehensive plan to restructure mining activities, which includes creating a digital platform that connects coal miners directly to the market, ensuring fair income and a clear legal path that respects the city’s history and the sacrifices of its residents.
On the continental level, Bennali addressed the Marrakech Declaration issued on November 24, 2025, which established the first African framework for mineral governance according to ESG standards, with the participation of 30 countries, thus opening up broader avenues for accessing responsible financing.
The Minister of Energy Transition concluded that the development of the mining sector remains contingent upon upgrading infrastructure, indicating ongoing projects to establish gas pipelines connecting to the Port of Nador as a strategic step to support the revival of the mining manufacturing industry both nationally and internationally.
