Nizar Baraka: Thanks to the vision of HM the King, Morocco has entered a new phase of mobilizing water resources

In a speech delivered at the opening of the 19th edition of the World Water Congress, held until December 5 under the theme “Water in a Changing World: Innovation and Adaptation,” Mr. Baraka stressed that this system combines seawater desalination, dams, wastewater reuse, aquifer recharge, digitization and regional water contracts.

He added, in this regard, that Morocco has launched a new approach to managing its water resources, based on the adoption of integrated master plans for all hydraulic basins with a 2050 horizon.

The Minister noted that these master plans form the foundation for the development of the National Water Plan, which represents a national roadmap aimed at ensuring convergence between the State, regions, local authorities and economic actors.

He indicated that 17 desalination plants have already been completed, with a production capacity reaching 350.3 million cubic meters per year, while four additional projects are underway with a capacity of 567 million cubic meters.

In addition, 11 projects are planned for drinking water supply, irrigation and industrial use, targeting a total capacity of 1.7 billion cubic meters by 2030, operating using renewable energy to ensure sustainability, he said.

The Minister underlined that Morocco is moving toward a “water energy food” model, linking these three sectors under a unified policy and shared vision, with concrete impacts on citizens’ daily lives.

He also reviewed the measures adopted for managing water resources intended for the agricultural sector, the reuse of wastewater for green spaces and for industry.

The water challenges Morocco is facing today are no longer temporary, but represent a new stage requiring creativity, innovation and intelligent governance, he continued, noting that this 19th World Water Congress will be an ideal opportunity to propose innovative solutions and practical recommendations.

Co-organized by the Ministry of Equipment and Water and the International Water Resources Association (IWRA) under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, this Congress provides an opportunity to explore innovative solutions, strategies and adaptive approaches for water resources in a constantly changing world.

This event will provide a platform for experts, practitioners, researchers, policymakers, civil society and the private sector to exchange knowledge, present groundbreaking research, establish partnerships and jointly develop concrete solutions aimed at addressing complex global challenges related to governance, security and water sustainability.

The program for this 19th World Water Congress includes a ministerial roundtable, four high-level panels, more than 140 technical sessions led by international experts, parallel events to deepen specialized themes and a large exhibition area dedicated to showcasing innovative water technologies and projects.

This event will conclude with the Marrakech Declaration, a collective call bringing together decision-makers, scientists and practitioners to strengthen the link between science, policy and action and accelerate global mobilization for water preservation.

Editorial team/le7tv