THE MANAGEMENT OF THE

NATURAL RESOURCES IN MOROCCO

Rihab HAMDAOUI
Hamza AHHA
 ABSTRACT :

Morocco's economic progress over the past few decades has led to improved living standards, yet
persistent challenges in rural areas, particularly in agriculture, continue to hinder comprehensive
development. Despite employing approximately half of the country's labor force, the agricultural
sector contributes only 16% to the GDP, highlighting the need for increased productivity to drive
sustainable growth and alleviate rural poverty.

Addressing the shortcomings in Morocco's agriculture requires a multifaceted approach, with a focus
on developing effective policies and programs to optimize the utilization of land, water, forests, and
the rural workforce. Several critical issues contribute to the existing challenges, including the absence
of comprehensive policies governing natural resources, underdeveloped legal frameworks, a limited
rural land market, scarcity of water, and insufficient programs for participatory forest management.
Additionally, slow progress in securing women's rights to access and control over land and natural
resources adds another layer of complexity to the country's development agenda.

Despite the initiation of large-scale programs by the Moroccan government to enhance agricultural
productivity through the expansion of irrigated land and the development of water-delivery
infrastructure, there remains a noticeable gap in the establishment of effective policy frameworks for
natural-resource governance bodies and institutions. While progress has been made in some areas,
such as the enactment of the Family Code to promote women's rights, the impact on women's daily
lives has not met the intended positive outcomes.

Moving forward, Morocco must prioritize the development of comprehensive policies governing land,
water, and other natural resources, along with legal frameworks that provide clarity and promote
sustainable practices. Additionally, efforts should be intensified to create a more dynamic rural land
market, address water scarcity through innovative solutions, and bolster programs for participatory
forest management. Ensuring the effective implementation of policies, coupled with a focus on
women's rights, will be crucial for achieving inclusive and sustainable economic development in
Morocco.
 INTRODUCTION :
Morocco contends with arid and semiarid climates, combatting desertification and reduced
rainfall due to climate change. Although the agricultural sector contributes a relatively small
percentage to GDP, it remains a significant employer despite the trend towards urbanization.
The average farm size is considerable, with a substantial portion on rainfed land, leading to
diminished productivity. Livestock serve as a means of diversification for households, yet
rangelands face pressure from expanding cultivation and overuse. Morocco's agricultural
productivity fluctuates with rainfall variations, impacting the ability to meet food demands
domestically during scarce rainfall periods, resulting in reliance on food imports. While
strides have been made in reducing poverty, economic vulnerability persists.

In terms of land legislation, Morocco lacks comprehensive laws, relying on a mix of

customary, Islamic, and French civil laws. Most land is collectively held by tribes or jointly
owned by multigenerational family members, constraining formal land markets. Land
transactions predominantly occur informally, with local tribunals handling disputes due to
perceived bureaucratic and corrupt court systems. Women's land ownership is limited, and
reforms, while progressive on paper, often face practical challenges, leaving women without
effective access and control over land and resources.

Water scarcity remains a critical concern, with Morocco heavily dependent on rainfall, rivers,
and lakes. The Green Morocco Plan allocates resources to expand irrigated land and address
drinking water needs, particularly in rural and informal urban areas. Efforts to mitigate the
impact of development on coastal ecosystems are less pronounced.

Approximately 10% of Morocco's land is forested, with reforestation efforts yielding gains,
but participatory forest management struggles due to an outdated legal framework. Despite
government support for national parks and protected areas, progress remains limited.
Morocco's significant phosphate deposits, constituting 75% of the world's total, position it as
the third-largest producer. The mineral sector contributes 7% to GDP, undergoing
privatization and legal updates to stimulate growth. The nation also explores oil and natural
gas, reflecting a broader effort to diversify and modernize its mineral portfolio.
Ⅰ- The different natural resources in Morocco :
1- Land :
1.1. Land use :
Morocco spans a total land area of 446,300 square kilometers, excluding the disputed Western
Sahara territory, which adds an additional 266,000 square kilometers. The country is characterized by
three distinct geographic regions: the Atlantic coastal lowlands, the mountainous interior
encompassing the Atlas and Rif mountain ranges, and the semiarid and arid eastern and southern
regions. Approximately 93% of Morocco experiences arid or semiarid conditions. Agricultural land
constitutes just over two-thirds of the total land area, with 19% designated as arable. Pastureland,
spanning around 53 million hectares, has gradually diminished due to settlement and cultivation,
while permanent cropland occupies only 2%. Forests cover 10% of the total land area, witnessing
reforestation at an average rate of 0.17% per year between 2000 and 2005. Despite 1% being
nationally protected, 93% of Morocco's land faces some degree of desertification.
As of 2008, Morocco's population stands at approximately 31 million, with 56% residing in urban
areas. Despite a reduction in absolute poverty from 15% to 9% during 2001–2007, about 27% of the
population remains categorized as poor, vulnerable, or near poor, with 70% of these individuals
residing in rural areas. The 2008 GDP reached US $86 billion, with services contributing 64%, industry
20%, and agriculture 16%. Despite its modest GDP share, the agricultural sector employs 45% of the
labor force, predominantly in the informal sector. Agricultural output is influenced by rainfall
fluctuations, impacting cereals, livestock, citrus fruits, vegetables, olives, wine, and fish production.
Most agricultural land relies on rainfall, making it susceptible to frequent droughts. Approximately
80% of farm households keep livestock, and constraints to agricultural productivity include harsh
climatic conditions, soil degradation, deforestation, inadequate water resources, and poor herd
management. Morocco has around 1.5 million hectares of irrigated land, mainly dedicated to export
crops, with the country often relying on imports to meet staple food requirements.

[Link] disputes and conflicts :

Land disputes are prevalent in certain regions, particularly where agricultural expansion encroaches
upon pastoral areas utilized for livestock. Competing interests arise as newcomers vie with
established clans for land access and other natural resources. Contentious issues encompass
inheritance rights, land transactions, and disputes over third-party access to land in ethnically
homogeneous areas. Civil law governs disputes related to registered land, requiring cases to be
adjudicated in the court of first instance, responsible for validating land documents. A religious figure
known as an adoul, certified by the government, plays a crucial role in legal matters, authenticating
documents and serving as a witness.
In cases involving personal rights, such as inheritance, family courts come into play, and there is a
growing trend of utilizing mediation for commercial land disputes. Despite this formal legal
framework, public perception often views the court system as bureaucratic and susceptible to
corruption. Adjudicators may lack adequate training, and conflicts arise due to the lack of
harmonization between different legal systems, including civil law, religious law, and customary law.
The prevailing sentiment is that these legal systems are often outdated and conflicting.
Given these challenges, many individuals opt for local, informal dispute resolution methods. In
certain areas, village councils serve as primary bodies for resolving disputes, especially in the Middle
Atlas region, historically inhabited by nomadic sheepherders organized along tribal and lineage lines.
Dissatisfied parties can escalate their grievances to the district council, which offers an alternative
forum perceived as less biased by clan and lineage considerations. This decentralized approach to
dispute resolution is seen as a pragmatic alternative to the formal court system, as reflected in
various studies and reports (M’Hassni et al. 2003; Ngaido 2005; Touchent 2002; World Bank 2008;
Venema and Mguild 2003; DAI 2010; World Bank 2003; Venema 2005; Venema and Mguild 2002).

2-Freshwater (Lakes,Rivers,Groundwater)
[Link] QUANTITY, QUALITY, USE AND
DISTRIBUTION
With less than 1000 cubic meters of annual freshwater resources per capita, Morocco is considered a
water-scarce country. Morocco’s surface freshwater resources include lakes, rivers, coastal lagoons
and estuaries. Most of Morocco’s permanent lakes, including Aguelmame Sidi Ali (500 hectares), are
located in the Middle Atlas region.
Most of the country’s rivers are seasonal. The Moulouya, Sebou, Bou Regreg, Umm Rbia, Loukkous,
and Transift are the largest rivers and are used primarily for irrigation and generation of electricity.
The Al Wahda Dam (also known as M’Jarra) was constructed in1996 on the Ouergha River in Sidi
Kacem Province in northwestern Morocco. With a capacity of 9714 million cubic meters, the Al
Wahda Dam is the second-largest in Africa (after the Aswan High Dam) and supplies hydroelectric
power (440 gigawatt hours annually), water for irrigation and drinking, and controls flooding.
Observers have questioned the sustainability of the dam’s benefits because the
reservoir is losing an estimated 60 million cubic meters of capacity annually as a result of siltification
from erosion. The dam has also altered coastal ecosystems, increasing erosion, endangering habitat,
and reducing fish stocks (Roudi-Fahimi et al. 2002; World Bank 2009a; Berkat and Tazi 2004; Ecodit
2008; UNEP 2010).
Morocco’s coastal lagoons and estuaries support high levels of biodiversity and serve as nurseries for
many species, including commercial saltwater species. The main Moroccan estuaries are Moulouya
estuary on the Mediterranean coast and Sebou and Oum-Er-Rbiâs on the Atlantic coast. The most
important of the brackish
water systems are the lagoons of Nador, Restinga-Smir, Moulay Bousselham, and the lagoon-complex
of Oualidia-Sidi Moussa (Berkat and Tazi 2004; Ecodit 2008).
Morocco has annual freshwater renewable water resources of about 29 cubic kilometers, 22 of which
are surface water.

2.2. Tenure issues :

Water in Morocco is considered a public asset unless ownership or usage rights are established by
legislation. The state imposes fees for water use, employing a sliding scale based on the
socioeconomic status of recipients. Those with higher incomes face elevated charges, with the
intention to subsidize services for individuals with lower economic means (Salman and Bradlow 2006;
World Bank 2004).
Regarding private ownership, preceding the 1995 Water Law, Moroccans had the ability to acquire
private water rights. Individuals with existing rights maintain them, and modifications can only occur
through expropriation for public purposes (Salman and Bradlow 2006; World Bank 2004).
The 1995 Water Law outlines conditions for authorizations and concessions in both surface and
groundwater exploitation. Exploitation applications undergo public inquiry, with permit terms
determined by the relevant basin authority and water commission. A regulation-established fee is
mandatory, and most permits are transferable except for those granted for specific purposes (Salman
and Bradlow 2006; World Bank 2004).
In addition to formal law, customary law governs water resource use and infrastructure maintenance
in certain regions of Morocco. The traditional khattara (qanat) system, recognized in the southern and
eastern margins of the Atlas mountain range, manages groundwater for irrigation under customary
distribution. Water users are organized into irrigation groups, each with selected leaders, regulating
usage based on members' needs. Users are individually responsible for resource payments and
contributions to maintenance and rehabilitation proportional to their usage (Oshima 2005).

3. TREES AND FORESTS :

3.1. RESOURCE QUANTITY, QUALITY, USE AND
DISTRIBUTION :
Approximately 10% of Morocco's land is designated as forest, with 99% being state-owned
and 1% privately owned. The country's diverse forest landscape includes coniferous forests of
cedar and pine in mountainous areas, broadleaf trees like oak and wild olive in central and
coastal plains, and argan trees, acacia, and vegetative scrub in the semiarid and arid
southern and eastern regions (Ecodit 2008; Mongabay 2010).
Around 1% of Morocco's total land is allocated to nationally protected areas, encompassing
national parks and biosphere reserves. The establishment of these protected areas dates
back to 1942, with recent additions in 2004, including AI Hoceima, Talassemtane, Ifrane, and
High Atlas Oriental. Morocco's commitment to conservation is evident in the creation of the
185,000-hectare Khnifiss National Park in 2006, the first Saharan national park. The country
also boasts three Biosphere Reserves: the southwestern Argon Forest Biosphere Reserve, the
Southern Morocco Oases Biosphere Reserve, and the Mediterranean Intercontinental
Biosphere Reserve, shared between Morocco and Spain (Ecodit 2008; Mongabay 2010).
Morocco's forests serve as habitats for approximately 675 species of birds, reptiles, and
mammals, with 4% classified as threatened or endangered. Notable endangered species
include the Barbary Leopard, Northern Bald Ibis, and Cuvier's Gazelle. Despite human
habitation in most forested areas, particularly in protected zones, mountainous regions often
exhibit high poverty levels. Local communities heavily rely on forests for grazing, fuelwood,
and non-timber resources like meat and medicinal plants. Income-generating forest products
include mushrooms, cork oak acorns, truffles, and carob pods (Mongabay 2010; Touahri
2007; Ecodit 2008).
Morocco faces an annual loss of approximately 30,000 hectares of forest due to factors
such as agricultural expansion, overgrazing, fuelwood and forest-product
collection, logging, fire, erosion, and watershed degradation. Invasive
species, like acacia molissima, add to the challenges. The country
responds with active forest regeneration and plantation programs,
resulting in a net gain of about 2,000 hectares of primary forest annually
from 2005 to 2010. Additionally, an estimated 621,000 hectares of
plantation were added during the same period, with an average annual
reforestation rate of 0.1% (Mongabay 2010; World Bank 2009a; Touahri
2007; Ecodit 2008).

3.2. TENURE ISSUES :

Under the formal legal framework, individuals and entities can obtain rights to exploit forest
resources on state forestland through licenses or as a member of a local community:
License. Licenses to access forests for commercial harvesting activities and to remove forest products
are available from the government. The licensees have rights to the production, although some
percentage of receipts from timber sales and other products must be paid to the local government.
Licensees are required to follow strict guidelines to ensure sustainable use, although in practice the
government’s enforcement of the guidelines is weak.
The state tends to grant licenses for commercial harvesting to relatively wealthy urban dwellers,
presumably because they are best able to make the statutory (and possibly extralegal) payments for
the license and are best positioned to access markets and obtain the highest prices. Local
communities that are unable to participate in the benefits of commercial harvesting have little
incentive to use the forest resources in a sustainable fashion (Ecodit 2008; Buys 1999).
Communal usufruct rights. The formal law grants local communities the right to use some forestland
and forest products (e.g., for harvesting dead wood and grazing family livestock, except goats) for
domestic use, consistent with customary law and traditional practice (Buys 1999; Ecodit 2008).
In areas subject to customary law and forest tenure systems, the village assembly sets rules governing
forest access and use of forest products and imposes fines for infractions. In areas where the
customary tenure systems have broken down and formal law is not enforced, state forests are treated
as open-access resources. There are no controls on forest access or use and no organized
management of the resources (Buys 1999; Ecodit 2008; Aubert et al. 2009).

4. MINERALS
[Link] QUANTITY, QUALITY, USE AND
DISTRIBUTION
Morocco boasts approximately 70–75% of the world's phosphate reserves, ranking as the third-
largest phosphate producer globally, following the US and China. The country also contributes about
6% of the global barite production and 2% of cobalt production, along with copper, fluorspar, iron
ore, lead, manganese, salt, silver, and zinc. Mineral deposits are concentrated in the Atlas and Rif
mountains, the Atlantic shore, and the eastern and southeastern regions. While Morocco's natural
gas and petroleum reserves seem relatively modest, exploration activities are ongoing. The mining
sector constituted 7.3% of GDP in 2008, employing around 37,000 individuals.
Phosphate production dominates Morocco's mineral sector, with 95% of the industry controlled by
the state-owned Office Chérifien des Phosphates (OCP). The global phosphate market faced a sharp
74% decline in the first half of 2009 but rebounded to sustain sector growth. Prospects suggest
moderate expansion in the next decade.
ONA (Omnium Nord Africain) stands as Morocco's largest private mining company, particularly
influential in the metallic mineral mining subsector. With the state privatizing mining operations, ONA
has acquired a significant portion of state assets.

Morocco hosts 12,000 to 15,000 small-scale and artisanal miners, contributing about 40% to
domestic production. The Tafilalet and Figuig region in southeastern Morocco houses numerous lead
and zinc mines, employing nomadic miners with a government-supported initiative, La Centrale
d'Achat et de Développement de la Région Minière de Tafilalet et de Figuig (CADETAF).
Coastal sand-mining operations in Morocco rank among the world's largest, causing environmental
concerns. The extraction of sand has led to the destruction of dunes, altering coastal landscapes and
threatening marine ecosystems. Furthermore, these operations heighten coastal vulnerability to
storms and rising sea levels, diminishing the value of beaches for tourism facilities (Pilkey et al. 2007).
In summary, Morocco's mineral wealth, primarily in phosphates, plays a pivotal role in its economy,
with ongoing exploration activities shaping the future trajectory of the mining sector. The presence of
both state and private entities underscores the dynamic landscape of Morocco's mining industry,
while small-scale and artisanal miners contribute significantly to domestic production. Coastal sand
mining, although economically substantial, raises environmental concerns impacting both terrestrial
and marine ecosystems.

4.2. TENURE ISSUES :

Morocco’s formal legal framework governing the mining sector recognizes the following mining
rights:
1. Exploration permits are available for an initial period of three years, renewable for another four
years. Initial permits are granted for areas of 16 square kilometers. Additional permits may be
obtained for a maximum area of 250 square kilometers. Reconnaissance licenses for exploration
for hydrocarbons are available for 1-year renewable terms.
2. Mining permits are granted for an initial period of four years, renewable for three 4-year periods,
with possible extension if workable deposits are discovered.
3. Mining concessions are issued for periods up to 75 years and renewable for another 25-year
period.
License-holders are responsible for paying annual fees and taxes. Some incentives are available in the
form of customs duty and tax exemptions on imported equipment and exported mineral production.
The state may also contribute to the development of mining infrastructure (GOM Mining Law 1951;
Newman 2010).

Ⅱ-The challenges facing the natural resources in Morocco :

1-LAND :
LAND DISPUTES AND CONFLICTS
Land disputes are relatively common in some areas, especially in areas where cultivation is
expanding into pastoral land used for livestock and newcomers are competing with
established clans for land access and other natural resources. Other issues creating disputes
include inheritance rights and land transactions. In some ethnically homogeneous areas,
disputes can occur over third-party access to land. Disputes relating to registered
land are governed by civil law, and cases must be brought to the court of first instance, which
is responsible for authenticating land documents. An adoul, a religious man certified by the
government, provides many legal services, including authenticating documents and serving
as a witness. Inheritance cases and other cases based on
personal rights may be brought before family courts, and mediation has begun to be used in
resolving commercial land disputes (M’Hassni et al. 2003; Ngaido 2005; Touchent 2002;
World Bank 2008; Venema and Mguild 2003; DAI 2010).
The public perception of the formal court system is that the processes are bureaucratic and
often corrupt.
Adjudicators often lack training, and the various forums and legal systems (including civil law,
religious law, and customary law) are not harmonized and are often conflicting and out of
date. Most people seek local, informal methods of dispute resolution. In parts of the country,
village councils function as the local dispute-resolution bodies. This is especially true for
areas of the Middle Atlas, a region historically populated by nomadic sheepherders and one
that remains arranged along tribal and lineage lines. Grievants who are dissatisfied with the
decision of the village council or who choose not to have the village council hear their
dispute can bring the matter to the district council. For some grievants, the district council
offers the possibility of a forum that is not biased by clan and lineage (World Bank 2003;
Venema 2005; Venema and Mguild 2002).

2-Freshwater (Lakes,Rivers,GROUNDWATER) :
Morocco faces several challenges related to freshwater resources. Some of the key problems
include:
1. Scarcity and Unequal Distribution: Morocco experiences water scarcity, with uneven
distribution across regions. The northern and coastal areas generally have better access to
freshwater, while inland and southern regions face more significant challenges.

2. Climate Change Impact: The effects of climate change, including rising temperatures and
changes in precipitation patterns, contribute to water stress in Morocco. Irregular rainfall,
droughts, and increased evaporation rates can strain freshwater resources.
3. Agricultural Water Use: Agriculture is a major consumer of water in Morocco, accounting
for a significant portion of water withdrawals. Inefficient irrigation practices and a reliance on
water-intensive crops contribute to the strain on freshwater resources.
4. Rural and Urban Disparities: Rural areas often face difficulties in accessing clean and
sufficient water supplies. In urban areas, population growth and urbanization place increased
demands on water infrastructure, leading to challenges in providing safe and reliable water
services.
5. Groundwater Depletion:Over-extraction of groundwater for agricultural and domestic use
has led to the depletion of aquifers in some regions. This can result in land subsidence,
saltwater intrusion in coastal areas, and long-term damage to the groundwater ecosystem.
6. Pollution:Pollution from agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and untreated
wastewater poses a threat to freshwater quality. Contaminants such as pesticides, fertilizers,
and industrial pollutants can degrade water sources, affecting both human health and
ecosystems.
7. Inadequate Water Infrastructure: Some areas lack sufficient infrastructure for water
storage, treatment, and distribution. Aging or inadequate infrastructure can lead to water
losses through leaks and inefficiencies in the supply system.
8. Water Governance and Management: Effective water governance is essential for
sustainable water management. Morocco faces challenges in coordinating water policies,
managing competing demands, and ensuring the equitable distribution of water resources
among various sectors and regions.
9. Population Growth: The growing population in Morocco places additional pressure on
water resources. Increased urbanization and industrialization further intensify water
demand, necessitating careful planning and management.

3-TREES and FORESTS :

Morocco faces several challenges related to trees and forests, which are critical components
of the country's ecosystems. Some key challenges include:

1. Deforestation: Morocco has experienced deforestation due to various factors, including

agricultural expansion, overgrazing by livestock, and illegal logging. This process leads to the
loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecosystems, and a decrease in the overall forest cover.

2. Climate Change: Changing climate patterns, including increased temperatures and altered
precipitation, can affect the health and distribution of forests in Morocco. This may lead to
changes in the composition of tree species, increased vulnerability to pests and diseases, and
a higher risk of wildfires.
3. Overgrazing: Uncontrolled grazing by livestock can negatively impact forests by preventing
natural regeneration and contributing to soil erosion. Overgrazing is a significant issue,
particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, where vegetation is already under stress due to
water scarcity.
4. Land Use Changes: Agricultural expansion, urbanization, and infrastructure development
can result in the conversion of forested areas into croplands or urban areas. This
transformation can fragment habitats, reduce biodiversity, and disrupt the natural
functioning of ecosystems.
5. Forest Fires: Forest fires pose a significant threat to Morocco's forests, especially during
dry periods. Human activities, such as agriculture and improper waste disposal, contribute to
the risk of wildfires. These fires can lead to the destruction of vegetation, loss of biodiversity,
and soil degradation.
6. Invasive Species: The introduction of invasive plant species can outcompete native
vegetation, affecting the health and biodiversity of Morocco's forests. Invasive species can
alter ecosystems, displace native flora and fauna, and lead to imbalances in natural
processes.
7. Lack of Awareness and Enforcement: Limited awareness of the importance of forests and
environmental conservation, coupled with insufficient enforcement of forestry regulations,
contributes to unsustainable practices. Illegal logging, unauthorized land clearing, and other
activities continue without adequate oversight.
8. Water Scarcity: In arid and semi-arid regions of Morocco, water scarcity can negatively
impact the health of forests. Insufficient water availability affects the growth of trees and
makes them more susceptible to stress, diseases, and pests.
9. Soil Erosion: Deforestation, improper land use, and unsustainable agricultural practices
contribute to soil erosion in forested areas. This erosion can lead to reduced soil fertility,
increased sedimentation in water bodies, and degradation of ecosystems.

4-MINERALS :
Morocco faces several challenges related to its mineral resources sector. Here are some of the key
problems:

1. Economic Dependence:The economy of Morocco has traditionally been dependent on the mining
sector, particularly phosphates. This heavy reliance on a single mineral resource makes the country
vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices.

2. Limited Diversity of Minerals: While Morocco has significant phosphate reserves, the diversity of
its mineral resources is limited. Overreliance on a few minerals can lead to economic instability and
hinder the development of a more diversified and resilient economy.
3. Environmental Impact: Mining activities, especially in the extraction of phosphates, can have
significant environmental consequences. Soil degradation, water pollution, and habitat destruction
are some of the environmental challenges associated with mining operations.
4. Sustainable Mining Practices: There is a need to adopt more sustainable and environmentally
friendly mining practices. This includes minimizing the environmental impact of extraction,
implementing effective waste management, and ensuring that mining activities are conducted in
accordance with best practices.
5. Social Impact: Mining operations can have social implications, including displacement of local
communities, changes in land use, and potential conflicts over resource ownership. Ensuring that
mining activities benefit local communities and adhere to social responsibility standards is crucial.
6. Infrastructure and Technology: Upgrading infrastructure and incorporating advanced mining
technologies are essential for optimizing the extraction and processing of mineral resources.
Insufficient infrastructure can hinder the efficient exploration, extraction, and transportation of
minerals.
7. Exploration and Geological Knowledge: Continuous investment in geological surveys and
exploration is necessary to discover new mineral deposits and expand the knowledge of existing
ones. A lack of comprehensive geological data can impede sustainable resource management.
8. Regulatory Framework: The effectiveness of the regulatory framework governing the mining
sector is critical. Clear and transparent regulations, efficient permitting processes, and strong
enforcement mechanisms are essential for responsible and sustainable mineral resource
management.
9. Global Market Dynamics: Morocco's mineral sector is affected by global market dynamics,
including fluctuations in commodity prices and changes in international demand. Adapting to these
market conditions and developing strategies to mitigate their impact is crucial for long-term
sustainability.
10. Technological Innovation: Embracing technological innovation in mineral exploration, extraction,
and processing can enhance efficiency and reduce environmental impact. Investing in research and
development to adopt modern mining technologies is essential for the sustainable development of
the sector.

Ⅲ- The management and sustainability of the natural resources :

1-LAND :
[Link] interventions :
The government intends to streamline the registration law to improve efficiency and offer legislative
backing for the privatization of individually-owned collective land. However, there is currently no
indication of a comprehensive government strategy to tackle land access, tenure security, and land
administration on a national scale through a cohesive land policy or encompassing legislation that
addresses the existing tensions between formal and customary law (World Bank 2008; IFAD n.d.; IFAD
2008; ICARDA 2000).

Within the framework of Morocco's Social and Economic Development Program for the period 2008–
2012, a key objective is to boost growth, export potential, and investment by concentrating on vital
productive sectors like agriculture. Simultaneously, the program aims to enhance infrastructure and
implement overarching reforms to improve governance and deepen decentralization for more
effective service delivery. The government's Green Morocco Plan (PMV) (2008–2020) operationalizes
this vision, focusing on modernizing the agricultural sector through projects targeting irrigation water
management, leasing state land for agricultural investment, and establishing domestic distribution
systems. The Agricultural Development Agency, tasked with implementing PMV programs, oversees
concessions on state land in 12 regions for small, medium, and large agricultural projects, requiring
significant investors to generate local employment and engage small farmers in production (World
Bank 2010e; World Bank 2009c; Brassicas 2010).

By mid-2010, the state had leased 80,000 hectares of land for agricultural enterprise development,
identified an additional 21,000 hectares, and created 3500 local jobs. The government is seeking
support from the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Bank for various PMV initiatives,
including research-based demonstration projects in pilot areas, the development of integrated water-
management systems in selected watersheds, and the integration of climate-change adaptation
processes. Notably, PMV does not currently incorporate any element specifically addressing
agricultural land tenure issues (World Bank 2010e; World Bank 2009c; Brassicas 2010; AfDB 2010).

[Link] INTERVENTIONS :
Until 2008, USAID, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP) have jointly funded projects aimed at assisting the government in enhancing
rangeland management. Project initiatives encompassed establishing a dedicated rangeland
management office within the Ministry of Agriculture, providing technical support for demarcating
areas for range improvement, and constructing infrastructure to facilitate enhanced rangeland
management. Additionally, programs included reinforcing traditional tribal structures in the High
Atlas region, forming part of a broader initiative to enhance land management. USAID, in
complementing efforts directed at governance institutions, also assisted in establishing market
linkages for livestock sales (Berkat and Tazi 2004; Ecodit 2008; UNDP 2008; UNDP 2010; USAID 2009).

Building upon the achievements of USAID's Integrated Agribusiness and Agriculture Program, which
concluded in 2009, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is currently funding agricultural
activities with a primary focus on increasing agricultural production and credit accessibility. Within
the total Compact with Morocco amounting to US $697.5 million, $301 million is specifically allocated
to a fruit-tree productivity project. The project aims to stimulate agricultural sector growth and
reduce production volatility by rehabilitating existing olive trees, expanding production of olives,
almonds, and figs, transitioning small farms from water-intensive, low-value cereal grains to drought-
resistant, high-value commercial fruit-tree species, and developing irrigation infrastructure. Notably,
this project concentrates on privately owned land and does not seem to incorporate considerations
for land access or tenure security (MCC 2010; USAID 2009).

In 2007–2008, the South Korean government financed a pilot land registration project in a rural
commune in Tetouan province. Korean specialists developed a methodology utilizing aerial
photography for cadastre development. However, the pilot project did not extend to the recording of
household and collective land rights (Kim 2010).

2-FRESHWATER :
Government reforms , interventions and investements :

Morocco encounters several challenges within its water sector, including the imperative to
effectively manage limited water resources, address deficiencies in sector governance and
institutions, optimize agricultural water usage, and enhance the nationwide distribution of
potable water. The government has undertaken significant water projects, with a specific
focus on providing drinking water in both rural and urban areas.
The Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project, initiated in 2005 and slated to continue until
2012, targets the enhancement of potable water access in rural regions of El Jaded and Safi
provinces. This initiative also seeks to fortify the capacity of the National Potable Water
Authority (ONEP) and facilitate the development and strengthening of Water User
Associations. Each province incorporates five subprojects, with work underway in all five
subprojects of El Jaded Province as of the end of 2009. Concurrently, project implementation
is in progress in Safi Province, accompanied by vigorous social mobilization activities in both
provinces (World Bank 2009c; World Bank 2005; World Bank 2009b).
The Improved Access to Water and Sanitation Services Project, initiated in 2007 and
scheduled for completion at the end of 2010, employs an output-based approach to provide
water and sanitation connections for low-income households in disadvantaged
neighborhoods within the urban centers of Casablanca, Tangiers, and Meknes. While facing
challenges in efficiently delivering services in informal settlements, the project has surpassed
its original target by reaching an additional 8,500 poor households currently lacking services.
Moreover, it is developing a service provision model that can be replicated in other urban
locations (World Bank 2010c; World Bank 2009b).

3. TREES AND FORESTS :

GOVERNMENT REFORMS, INTERVENTIONS AND
INVESTMENTS :
In 1999, the government embraced a National Forest Program advocating an approach to
forest management that integrates strategic planning with long-term decentralized and
participative processes. The program acknowledges the imperative to enhance the
livelihoods and incomes of rural populations, emphasizing the pivotal role that rational,
sustainable, and participatory management of natural resources can play in this endeavor.
Despite the adoption of a decree permitting compensation for local forest users affected by
the exclusion of grazing animals from forests, the government's overall efforts to foster and
sustain participatory forest management programs have been relatively limited (Aubert et al.
2009).
In 2004, the government implemented the Moroccan High Commission for Water, Forests,
and Combating Desertification Plan, encompassing various strategies to combat
desertification. These include afforestation and reforestation campaigns, the establishment
of protected areas, and the conservation of forest resources. Supported by the German
Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Global
Environment Facility (GEF), the government is currently revising the institutional and legal
framework and formulating strategies for coordination among relevant ministries. This
coordination encompasses topics such as financing the sustainable use of resources, the
development of ecotourism, environmental education, and participative resource
management. The 2006–2011 funding period focuses on strengthening regional forestry
authorities, local civil-society associations, scientific institutions, and the private sector in
national parks such as Tazekka, Toubkal, and Souss-Massa, the Tamri protected area, and the
desertification-threatened Agadir region. The government has undertaken approximately 70
activities, including the development of a new law protecting endangered species, the
drafting of an environmental handbook, and the formulation of a framework for the
management of national parks (GTZ 2009).
In 2006, the HCEFLCD initiated a participatory forest management program involving forest
cooperatives. This program grants timber rights to local communities and provides
employment for forest monitoring, creating a financial stake for communities in both the
protection and utilization of the forest. In a region where 27,000 hectares are covered by 10
local forest management contracts, illegal forest use decreased by nearly 98% in the first year
when cooperatives conducted patrols and surveillance of the forest. While an evaluation of
the program was generally positive, it highlighted the use of short-term contracts and a focus
on limited activities, which posed challenges to the development of a long-term perspective.
A more sustainable outcome was observed in a longer-term forest-enterprise program
supporting community harvesting of rosemary, funded by USAID (Ecodit 2008).

[Link] :
GOVERNMENT REFORMS, INTERVENTIONS AND
INVESTMENTS :
Morocco has been privatizing state-owned mining assets and has opened investment opportunities to
foreign companies, either as joint ventures with the Moroccan government or as 100% foreign-
owned ventures. The country has also been conducting geological mapping. The government has
encouraged foreign investment in oil exploration, extending permits covering almost 200,000 square
kilometers, about half of which are offshore. The state has also been updating the legal framework
governing the mining sector, but progress toward the adoption of
a revised framework is unknown (GOM 2008: Newman 2010; Business Monitor 2010; The Hindu
2009).
The government is supporting the development of small-scale and artisanal mines with a program
designed to upgrade existing small mines; promote job creation in the various mining areas to
generate local wealth; reduce levels of poverty among rural populations and limit the rural exodus;
and increase the chances of exploitable deposits on an industrial scale. The beneficiaries of this
program are all natural or legal persons who hold smallscale mining permits and will receive support
in the areas of: geological and mining techniques; accounting and financial management; market
studies and inventories; and health and safety. The program has an initial term of three years, running
from 2008 to 2011 (GOM 2008).
 Conclusion :

Morocco grapples with various challenges concerning its natural resources, posing significant
implications for sustainable management. Persistent issues include water scarcity
exacerbated by erratic rainfall patterns, desertification, and overexploitation of rangelands.
Agricultural productivity faces constraints due to large farm sizes, limited inputs, and
dependence on rainfed land, leading to vulnerability during periods of reduced rainfall.
Additionally, deforestation and land degradation threaten biodiversity, impacting ecosystems
and contributing to poverty in forested areas. In the mining sector, environmental concerns
arise from coastal sand mining operations. To address these challenges, Morocco has
initiated programs like the Green Morocco Plan, focusing on water resource management
and expanding irrigated land. Efforts in participatory forest management and reforestation
aim to balance environmental conservation with community needs. Ongoing exploration in
the mining sector necessitates robust regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible resource
extraction and environmental preservation. Collaborative initiatives between government,
communities, and international partners play a crucial role in managing and mitigating the
impact of these challenges on Morocco's natural resources.
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