Fes News has learned from a reliable source that the province of Meknes has recorded a significant amount of rainfall since the beginning of March. This has had a positive impact on the agricultural sector and improved farming conditions in the region.
The same source indicated that the rainfall came at a crucial time after a period of drought, raising farmers’ hopes for a successful agricultural season. This improvement has particularly benefited autumn crops, which have shown remarkable development. Additionally, the rain has helped replenish groundwater levels and pastures, easing the effects of drought on livestock farmers.
In the outskirts of Meknes, specifically in the Sidi Slimane Moul Al-Kifan commune, farmers are busy tending to their crops under light and continuous rain, considering it a “gift from the sky” that will enhance agricultural productivity and pasture lands.
One farmer, who is also the head of a local agricultural cooperative, stated that the rainfall played a decisive role in saving the season. He said: “After months of drought, this rain arrived at the perfect time, allowing us to use nitrogen fertilizers and combat weeds to improve crop quality.”
Another farmer emphasized how the recent rainfall has transformed the landscape, saying: “We planted our fields in late December, and today we see remarkable improvement. The month of Ramadan has brought blessings, and we thank God for His favors.”
According to the Regional Director of Agriculture in Meknes, Mr. Mohamed Ijjo, the recorded rainfall until March 12 has reached approximately 340 mm. This has significantly boosted agricultural activities following a difficult start to the season.
Ijjo explained that autumn crops benefited the most from this rainfall, experiencing strong growth thanks to the efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture, which provided selected seeds and subsidized fertilizers. This support enabled farmers to take full advantage of the favorable climatic conditions.
He also noted that the recent rainfall was beneficial not only for autumn crops but also for spring crops such as sunflower cultivation. Moreover, it improved groundwater levels and pasture conditions, strengthening livestock farming in the region.
According to data obtained by “Fes News” from an informed source, this season’s agricultural program includes the cultivation of 62,230 hectares of cereals, fully completed, distributed as follows:
- 42,000 hectares using traditional methods,
- 18,900 hectares using direct seeding technology,
- 1,100 hectares of cereal seeds using traditional methods.
Additionally, the cultivated areas include 10,140 hectares of legumes, 12,630 hectares of fodder crops, and 3,860 hectares of oil crops, reinforcing agricultural production in the region and highlighting the importance of recent rainfall in supporting the sector.
Despite the delayed rainfall at the beginning of the season, farmers in Meknes are optimistic about achieving a bountiful harvest. They remain hopeful that improving agricultural conditions and continued technical support from relevant authorities will contribute to a successful season, making up for past challenges.
source : fesnews media