Morocco Signs Major Water Deals at SIAM 2025

Morocco has signed two major agreements aimed at transforming the way it manages its water resources, as the country faces mounting pressure from drought and climate change.

The deals were signed between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Equipment and Water at SIAM 2025 during the International Conference on Water Management for Sustainable and Resilient Agriculture. Nearly 30 foreign delegations attended, including ministers from France and Italy.

The first agreement focuses on the Fez-Meknes aquifer, aiming to involve farmers, local authorities, and industry in managing this crucial water source. “This new contract will allow us to balance environmental protection and economic development,” said Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari at the event. 

The second deal promises tighter coordination between government departments, especially when it comes to data sharing and weather forecasting. “The exchange of data between our services and the development of specific meteorological tools will revolutionise agricultural decision-making,” said Nizar Baraka, Minister of Equipment and Water.

Speaking to Morocco World News, Baraka revealed Morocco is also working with the World Water Council to create a new international centre focused on renewable energy and water. “The aim is to share Morocco’s successful experience in seawater desalination using renewable energy – particularly solar energy,” he said.

By 2030, Morocco plans to produce 1.7 billion cubic metres of desalinated water, of which 500 million cubic metres will be used for agriculture. “This will allow us to irrigate over 100,000 hectares – enabling the cultivation of high-value crops and reinforcing our food sovereignty,” Baraka added.

One of the new projects will support earthquake-hit regions. “We’ve signed a groundwater contract covering the earthquake-affected zone,” Baraka said. “Water from the Moulay Abdeslam dam will support irrigation over 30,000 hectares, starting with 10,000 hectares.”

Both ministers stressed that these efforts follow the roadmap laid out by King Mohammed VI in his 2024 speech, which set the goal of meeting 80% of Morocco’s irrigation needs. “In the face of growing water stress, these agreements reflect our commitment to deliver the royal vision,” said El Bouari.

Experts at the event called for faster adoption of smarter water governance models. Many praised Morocco’s new participatory approach to groundwater management as a model for the region.