Drinking Water in Morocco: ONEE Launches a €50 Million Program with KfW
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A Strategic Program to Address Water Stress
In response to the worsening water stress in Morocco, the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) is launching a structured program for climate-resilient drinking water supply. Backed by €50 million from the German development bank KfW, this project aims to sustainably secure drinking water supplies and modernize hydraulic infrastructures nationally.
Set to run until June 2030, this strategic program is part of an initiative to enhance the Kingdom’s water security. It aims to ensure continuous access to drinking water in Morocco, especially given the recurring droughts, climate variability, and increasing pressure on water resources. The goal is to effectively meet current demand, particularly during peak consumption periods, while also anticipating future needs related to population growth and economic development.
Diversification of Resources and Infrastructure Modernization
Central to this program, ONEE is focusing on diversifying water resources by promoting greater use of surface water to reduce reliance on groundwater, which is currently heavily exploited. This direction is supported by a sustained effort to modernize existing infrastructures, aiming to enhance technical performance, optimize network efficiency, and secure facilities against climate-related risks.
A Combined Approach of Structural Investments and Targeted Actions
The program is based on an integrated approach that combines structural investments with targeted interventions. It will develop large-scale projects dedicated to drinking water production while establishing a flexible funding line to support smaller-scale projects with significant local impact. This structure ensures a balanced coverage of needs, both nationally and at the regional level.
Strengthened Governance and International Standards
ONEE places particular importance on governance and the quality of program execution. A consulting engineering office will be mobilized to ensure coordination, monitoring, and supervision of projects, ensuring compliance with deadlines, budgets, and international standards imposed by KfW. The system will also incorporate enhanced environmental and social requirements, particularly regarding impact management, grievance mechanisms, and the consideration of inclusion issues.
Land Issues: A Key Challenge for Program Success
The question of land remains a central issue for the success of this drinking water program. To avoid delays related to land acquisition procedures or administrative constraints, a specific mechanism will be established to secure the necessary land plots for project implementation in advance.
Towards a Sustainable Water Management Model in Morocco
Beyond its technical dimensions, this program represents a profound evolution of water policy in Morocco. It is framed within a resilience strategy aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change and ensuring the continuity of public drinking water services. By combining investments, innovation, and environmental requirements, ONEE aspires to build a sustainable model capable of absorbing future water tensions and strengthening the country’s water security.
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