Dakhla Congress Explores Desert Economies, Sahara Development

Rabat – The southern Moroccan city of Dakhla hosted last week the fourth edition of the International Congress on Desert Economy, the first worldwide scientific research meeting on arid lands, the Sahara, and desert economic development, whose approach is to think globally and act locally.

The two-day annual event took place on May 11-12 and was organized and hosted by Dakhla’s National School of Business and Management (ENCG). The congress adopted the theme “International scientific research collaboration for arid lands and desert development,” reflecting its commitment to fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration in the field.

With a focus on the desert, arid lands, and the Sahara, the congress aimed to serve as a comprehensive platform for scientific exploration and inquiry into the areas of economy, management, and development. The organizers expressed their intention to contribute significantly to the effective governance and sustainable development of arid lands across the globe.

One of the primary objectives of the congress was to attract and promote investment opportunities in the Sahara and other desert regions. By doing so, the event sought to stimulate meaningful interactions and partnerships among stakeholders at a global scale.

The organizers believed that dialogue, collaboration, and cooperation among desert countries worldwide would be instrumental in achieving this aim.

Another key aspiration of the congress was to promote desert knowledge and raise awareness of related studies, conference findings, and recommendations. Creating a conducive environment for the exchange of experiences, training, educational practices, and innovation formed an integral part of the congress’s mission.

Global Experts, Institutions Gather for Congress

Participants were encouraged to share their insights and contribute to the advancement of desert economies and the effective management of arid lands.

The International Congress on Desert Economy in Dakhla served as a vital platform for researchers, policymakers, business leaders, and other stakeholders to gather, exchange ideas, and forge partnerships.

By bridging the gap between academic research and practical implementation, the congress aimed to make significant strides towards sustainable development in arid regions worldwide.

Addressing the significance of the congress, Professor Elouali Aailal, the founder and president, emphasized the relevance of the themes and subjects explored during the event. These included prominent topics such as the Morocco-Nigeria Gas Pipeline, effective management of drought and water scarcity, ensuring energy and food security in drylands, and advancements in arid agriculture.

The fourth edition of the congress witnessed an extraordinary convergence of distinguished scientific and professional figures, as well as renowned research institutes specializing in desert and arid land studies, from various corners of the globe, Aailal noted.

Remarkable Progress in Morocco’s Southern Provinces

Despite their desert location, Morocco’s southern provinces have achieved remarkable progress within a remarkably short timeframe. Organizers attributed this success to the implementation of specific development strategies tailored to Sahara regions, including the New Development Model for Morocco’s Southern Provinces.

In recent years, Morocco has launched several noteworthy initiatives in the southern provinces, encompassing wastewater management projects, renewable energy reforms, and infrastructure construction plans. These endeavors reflect the country’s determination to spur sustainable growth in desert areas.

Demonstrating a resolute commitment to the region, King Mohammed VI made a significant investment of $7.1 billion in November 2022 to finance extensive development projects.

This substantial funding reaffirms Morocco’s determination to place the region at the heart of its continental goals, as well as its commitment to promoting its development.