The Saïss plain has reached a turning point in its agricultural development. On Wednesday, July 2, Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari officially launched a new irrigation system supplied by the M’Dez dam, situated over 90 kilometers away.
This national initiative aims to shift from unsustainable groundwater use to a more controlled surface water supply.
The new network will irrigate 30,000 hectares spanning 22 municipalities across the prefectures of Fès and Meknès, and the provinces of El Hajeb, Sefrou, and Moulay Yacoub. Approximately 4,500 farms are set to benefit directly.
The project’s main objective is to safeguard agricultural productivity in the face of increasing water scarcity and to promote efficient irrigation techniques, such as drip systems.
Part of the Green Morocco Plan and Generation Green strategies, the project aims to help farmers adapt to climate change while preserving regional water resources for the future.
Financed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), with contributions from the European Union and the Green Climate Fund, the project has been recognized for its environmental impact.
Besides securing water access, it is also expected to spur local economic growth by supporting cooperatives, rural businesses, and agricultural services.
Key Terms and Concepts
What is climate-resilient agriculture?
Climate-resilient agriculture refers to farming methods designed to adapt to climate change impacts, such as droughts or irregular rainfall. These practices improve long-term productivity while reducing environmental damage. Projects like the Saïss irrigation system aim to help farmers continue producing food sustainably in a warming climate.
What is the Green Morocco Plan?
The Green Morocco Plan is a national strategy launched to modernize Moroccan agriculture through sustainable practices, improved infrastructure, and farmer support. It’s part of Morocco’s broader goal to secure food production and preserve natural resources. The Saïss irrigation project is a key element under this strategy.
What role does the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) play in agriculture?
The EBRD provides financing for infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, and private sector development in emerging economies. In 2025, it continues to fund environmentally focused projects, like Morocco’s irrigation systems, through clean financing facilities. These help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and unsustainable water use.
What is drip irrigation and why is it important in 2025?
Drip irrigation is a precise method of watering crops that minimizes waste by delivering water directly to plant roots. In 2025, as water scarcity worsens due to climate change, this method is increasingly crucial for preserving water while maintaining crop yields.
How are EU climate funds supporting global agriculture in 2025?
The European Union, through instruments like the Green Climate Fund, is directing money toward climate-adaptive projects in developing nations. In 2025, these funds are vital for supporting agricultural transformation, especially in regions like North Africa, where traditional methods can no longer meet sustainability needs.
Why is groundwater depletion a crisis in agriculture?
Overextraction of groundwater leads to falling water tables, land subsidence, and long-term ecological damage. In areas like the Saïss plain, 2025 policies now prioritize surface water irrigation to prevent further depletion and protect water reserves for future generations.
How is agriculture linked to economic development in rural areas?
Agriculture remains the backbone of rural economies, providing jobs, income, and food. In 2025, irrigation projects are being designed not just to grow crops but also to support cooperatives, small businesses, and rural infrastructure—key to combating rural poverty and migration.
What is a surface water irrigation system?
Surface water irrigation involves diverting water from rivers, dams, or reservoirs to farms through canals or pipes. In contrast to groundwater pumping, it is more sustainable if well managed. The M’Dez dam project in Morocco exemplifies this shift in 2025 toward regulated water distribution.
How are international climate goals affecting local farming projects?
As countries aim to meet 2030 climate goals under the Paris Agreement, local projects are being shaped to align with global emissions reduction and adaptation plans. In 2025, this means more support for sustainable farming and clean energy in agriculture, like solar-powered irrigation.
