Rabat – French and Moroccan authorities are solidifying their commitment to environmental sustainability and post-disaster reconstruction.
Morocco’s National Water and Forestry Agency (ANEF) and the French Development Agency (AFD) signed a letter of intent on April 15, reaffirming their commitment not only to implementing the “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” Strategy, but also to spearheading reconstruction and sustainable development efforts in the Toubkal region.
This collaboration builds on their existing successful projects like the “Ghabati Hayati” Program and the “Conservation of Biodiversity of the Ifrane National Park.”
Backed by a potential €102 million in financing (€100 million loan and €2 million grant), the new program aims to achieve a two-pronged approach: fostering local development through economic opportunities and safeguarding the precious forest ecosystems.
According to a press release, the focus will be on promoting sustainable ecotourism, ensuring local communities are not only consulted but also integrated into the development process.
This aligns with the overall goal of building a more resilient and prosperous future for the Toubkal region, said Christophe Lecourtier, France’s Ambassador to Morocco.
The program goes beyond just rebuilding infrastructure. ANEF and AFD will work together to identify key areas and design projects specifically aimed at preserving and restoring forest ecosystems.
Read also: Morocco Is French Development Agency’s Leading International Partner
Recognizing the importance of knowledge transfer, AFD has pledged to support ANEF’s capacity-building efforts through training programs and exchange of best practices.
This collaborative effort will encompass expertise in integrated water resource management, biodiversity conservation and valorization, and most importantly, adaptation to climate change.
Aberrahim Houmy, General Director of ANEF, emphasized the dynamic nature of the partnership. “This partnership with the AFD group is dynamic and has allowed us to innovate during the first ‘Ghabati Hayati’ program,” he said.
He expressed the intention to further collaborate on implementing the “Forests of Morocco 2020-2030” Strategy and advancing the reconstruction and sustainable development of the Toubkal National Park area.
By focusing on sustainability, local participation, and knowledge-sharing, the collaboration between ANEF and AFD has the potential to not just rebuild but revitalize the entire region.
