The city of Nador recently hosted an important awareness and consultation meeting organized by the Agence du Bassin Hydraulique de la Moulouya in partnership with local authorities. This gathering aimed to promote efficient water resource management and strengthen oversight of public water assets, highlighting the critical need for sustainable management of water resources in the region.
Context of the Meeting
This initiative aligns with Morocco’s National Program for Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation (2020-2027), which advocates for a participative approach to raise awareness about water conservation and encourage sustainable agricultural practices. The focus is particularly on associations and individuals who utilize water for agricultural purposes, emphasizing the necessity of responsible water consumption.
Key Insights from Local Authorities
Jamal Al-Shaarani, the governor of Nador, underscored that securing water resources and managing them with a forward-thinking vision is essential for accompanying the region’s development. He pointed out that major projects, such as the Nador West Mediterranean Port and related industrial zones, demand enhanced measures to ensure water security. These measures include accelerating the construction of a seawater desalination plant and completing the elevation of the Mohammed V dam to better cope with increasing demands.
Challenges and Strategic Actions
Nargis Al-Amarti, director of the Moulouya Water Basin Agency, highlighted the impact of climate change, which stresses the need to move from scarcity management to proactive planning aimed at increasing water efficiency. She elaborated on the pressing challenges, including shrinking surface water resources and drought effects on drinking water supply. The agency has initiated urgent and structural measures, such as separating drinking water systems from irrigation supplies to secure the population’s needs and equipping water wells with brackish water desalination stations. Construction of the Mohammed V dam is progressing, with 76% completion aimed at raising its capacity to one billion cubic meters.
Conclusions and Recommendations
The meeting concluded with the formulation of recommendations urging tighter regulation of public water resources. Participants advocated for enhanced coordination between water police, environmental authorities, and judicial oversight to ensure proper management and address illegal exploitation of water resources. The collaboration among officials, farmers, and civil society representatives reflects a collective commitment to sustainable water practices in the region.
