Morocco’s farming season is shaping up to be a promising one, following the arrival of much-needed rainfall in March and early April. According to Morocco’s Agriculture Minister, Ahmed El Bouari, the country’s grain harvest is expected to increase by 41%, reaching an estimated 44 million quintals. This surge in production is seen as a positive development for the agricultural sector, particularly after a challenging start to the season.
El Bouari shared these insights at the International Conference on Water Management for Sustainable and Resilient Agriculture, held during the 17th International Agricultural Fair in Meknes (SIAM). He highlighted that the recent rainfall had a significant impact on agricultural productivity across various regions of Morocco. “It had a very positive impact on the agricultural situation in various regions of the Kingdom despite a difficult start to the season,” he said. The rain helped improve the vegetative cover of autumn cereals, especially in areas most suited to such crops.
Additionally, the rainfall has stimulated the growth of grass, which will support the country’s livestock sector. This development is seen as particularly crucial after years of drought, which severely impacted herd sizes. The recent improvements in grass cover will help increase herd numbers, allowing for a gradual recovery of national herds to pre-2020 levels. The government has also encouraged citizens to refrain from slaughtering animals for the Eid ritual this year to aid in the regeneration of national herds.
To further support the agricultural sector, the Ministry of Agriculture is developing a comprehensive plan to assist livestock breeders. This initiative includes an integrated program aimed at increasing national herd productivity, which is essential for ensuring food security in Morocco’s livestock industry.
The rains have also positively impacted the country’s water resources. El Bouari emphasized that the rainfall had significantly improved Morocco’s water situation, creating optimism for a bold irrigation program to be launched in the coming summer months. The government is working closely with the Ministry of Water to implement this new irrigation plan, which aims to address water scarcity challenges while promoting efficient water use across the agricultural sector.
Morocco has faced its longest drought in recent years, with a severe rainfall deficit over the past seven years. This drought has had a negative impact on both the agricultural sector and the rural economy. However, thanks to proactive planning and investment under the Green Morocco Plan, the country has been able to maintain agricultural production and ensure a stable food supply for the population. The Green Morocco Plan remains central to the country’s agricultural strategy, focusing on sustainable development and adaptation to climate change.
A key component of this strategy is improving water management. Morocco has set a target of increasing the use of water-saving irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation, from 54% coverage to over 70% by 2030. This initiative is intended to make agriculture more resilient to the impacts of climate change while maintaining Morocco’s competitiveness in global agricultural markets.
El Bouari reiterated the importance of ensuring water availability for both agricultural and drinking needs. He pointed out that His Majesty, the King of Morocco, had directed the government to prioritize providing drinking water for all citizens and to meet at least 80% of the country’s irrigation needs, regardless of the circumstances.
Looking ahead, the government’s objective is clear: to align water and agricultural policies, strengthen irrigation efforts, and reduce the vulnerability of the agricultural sector to climate change. This comprehensive approach aims to enhance Morocco’s resilience and ensure the sustainability of its agricultural industry for years to come.
