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International Mission Monitors Progress on Oasis Development Projects in Tata
A joint mission from the World Bank and the National Agency for the Development of Oasis Regions and Argan Trees recently conducted a field mission in the Tata region from March 23 to 27. The purpose was to assess the progress of implementing the sustainable management project for oasis ecosystems, with a particular focus on the Aqqa oasis, aimed at evaluating the impact of its interventions at the local level.
The visit provided an opportunity to closely observe several exemplary initiatives completed under the project, reflecting efforts to enhance the resilience of oases and improve the socio-economic conditions of local populations. It also facilitated discussions with various stakeholders, including local authorities, external agencies, and community representatives, to ensure the achievement of objectives related to oasis development and the sustainable management of natural resources, while also supporting vulnerable groups, especially women and youth.
Interventions carried out in the Aqqa and Kasbat Sidi Abdullah Ben Mbarek municipalities include projects aimed at enhancing the oasis space and increasing its attractiveness. These projects involved the improvement of internal roads, the development of the tourist-oriented “Amound” area, and the renovation of the weekly date market, all within a vision to boost tourism offerings and leverage local potential.
These projects also supported initiatives led by cooperatives and associations, particularly women’s groups, and encouraged income-generating activities for youth, women, and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, educational spaces were improved through the upgrading of playgrounds at several schools.
Kamal Al-Muhsini, Director of Oasis Development at the agency, emphasized that this model project, supported by the World Bank, aims to establish an innovative approach for intervention within oases to tackle challenges related to climate change. This includes aspects such as spatial planning, irrigation water mobilization, road construction, as well as strengthening human capacities and supporting entrepreneurial initiatives.
For his part, World Bank representative Tawfiq Benouna clarified that this visit is part of regular monitoring tasks to evaluate project progress and identify challenges, expressing satisfaction with the level of achievement made under this program.
The mission concluded with a call to enhance coordination among various partners continuously and maintain efforts to ensure sustainable and comprehensive development in oasis regions, thereby boosting their capacity to face climate change.
