فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
The agricultural sector is a vital pillar of the Moroccan economy, contributing approximately 13% of the country’s GDP and providing nearly one-third of national employment opportunities, according to World Bank data from 2023. Despite this central role, the sector is facing growing challenges that threaten its stability and sustainability, especially in light of severe climate changes, increasing water scarcity, limited adoption of modern technologies, and financing difficulties for small-scale farmers.
Reports by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) indicate that Morocco is classified among the countries suffering from severe water stress. The average renewable water resources per capita have decreased from around 2,560 cubic meters annually in the 1960s to less than 620 cubic meters in 2023. Consecutive years of drought and rising temperatures have negatively impacted agricultural productivity, leading to soil degradation and a decline in crop yields—particularly in vulnerable rural areas.
Moreover, the use of modern agricultural technologies remains limited, especially among smallholder farmers. A lack of training and financial resources hinders the transition toward smart and climate-resilient agriculture. According to the African Development Bank, over 70% of small farmers in Morocco do not have regular access to financial services, reducing their ability to secure funds for purchasing equipment, fertilizers, and improving crop quality.
Other challenges impacting the agricultural sector include market price fluctuations—both locally and internationally—and weak marketing and distribution chains, which expose producers to direct losses during times of overproduction or decreased demand. These factors have widened the gap between small and large farmers, affecting social and economic balance in rural communities.
In response to these constraints, Moroccan authorities are implementing sustained efforts to strengthen the sector’s resilience through the “Green Generation 2020–2030” strategy. This plan aims to improve productivity, support professional organizations, ensure territorial equity by assisting small farmers, encourage investment in agricultural research, and promote widespread adoption of drip irrigation systems. Collaborative programs with international organizations such as the World Bank and FAO are also contributing to Morocco’s efforts in food security, sustainable production, and reinforcing the resilience of agricultural systems.
However, experts believe that the success of these reforms depends on an integrated vision that combines environmental, social, and technical aspects—grounded in strong political will to ensure the sustainability of this vital sector, achieve food sovereignty, and encourage rural population stability by providing decent living conditions and inclusive development opportunities.
Source: Fes News Media
