Government Pledges Continued Support for Morocco’s Agricultural Chains Amid Drought

Rabat – Morocco’s government today discussed possible measures to revitalize the agriculture sector which has been hit by five consecutive years of severe drought affecting one of the industries crucial to the country’s economy.

Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch chaired a meeting in Rabat on Thursday, convening industry professionals who shared their insights on mechanisms that could help achieve the desired balance in animal production chains like milk, red meat, and poultry.

The measures also seek to contribute to reviving plant production chains like olives, citrus fruits, date palms, sugar plants, rice seeds, and grains.

A statement from Akhannouch’s office pledged to enhance its support for professionals in agricultural chains to regulate and improve the performance of these chains based on  optimal management of inputs and production sectors.

“The government will continue, in line with royal directives, to mobilize structured investments aimed at enhancing the agricultural sector’s ability to adapt to the impacts of drought, through a series of measures to gradually restore balance in various production chains,” Akhannouch said.

Last year in May, Morocco’s government signed 19 program contracts for the development of agricultural production chains with a total amount exceeding MAD 110 billion ($11 billion) over the coming decade.

The programs are part of the country’s efforts to address drought and repercussions stemming from the persistent lack of rainfall.

Despite recent heavy rainfall, Morocco’s agriculture remains vulnerable to drought.

A new report from Fitch Solutions in September  cited Morocco’s efforts to mitigate drought, including desalination projects.

The report, however, said water scarcity will remain a significant drag on the economy in the coming years.

Agriculture represents around 10% of the country;s GDP.