Morocco is taking major steps to improve its water management with the construction of 16 new dams.
In a proactive approach to water challenges, the Kingdom of Morocco
has launched a dam-building programme as part of a policy to consolidate its sovereignty over this vital resource. This strategic plan, on an unprecedented scale, provides for the construction of 16 new hydraulic infrastructures, wisely distributed throughout the country.
The main objective of this initiative is to increase the country’s total storage capacity to almost 4.9 billion cubic metres of water, a volume that testifies to Morocco’s firm determination to secure its water supply and respond effectively to the growing needs of its population and economy. A colossal investment of over 26 billion dirhams has been earmarked for these projects, reflecting the vital importance the country attaches to water management.
Among the flagship projects, the Kheng Grou Dam in Figuig Province stands out for its impressive capacity of 1.07 billion cubic metres. With a budget of MAD 1.2 billion, the project is scheduled to be operational in 2026 and promises to play a key role in regulating water flows and supporting agricultural activities in the region.
The Ratba dam in the province of Taounate is another major project, with a planned storage capacity of 1,009 billion cubic metres and an investment of MAD 4,087 billion. Scheduled for completion in 2028, it will make a significant contribution to mitigating the effects of recurrent droughts.
The project to raise the Mohammed V dam will increase the capacity of this existing structure to 980 million cubic metres, improving water security in the provinces of Taourirt and Nador. At the same time, the Targa Ou Madi dam, currently under construction in Guercif, will add 287 million cubic metres to the national water reserve. These two initiatives are expected to be operational in 2026.
These major investments in water infrastructure are crucial for the economic and social development of the beneficiary regions. They also embody Morocco’s commitment to promoting sustainable water management at a time of increasing water stress.
In addition to these works, Morocco is diversifying its water supply sources by investing in desalination plants, demonstrating a holistic and forward-looking approach to the management of its water resources
MN/te/lb/GIK/APA