Biodiversity in Drâa-Tafilalet: ANEF Launches Several Sustainable Development and Ecosystem Conservation Projects
International Day for Biological Diversity Celebrates Local Action for Global Impact
On the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity, celebrated under the theme “Act Locally for a Global Impact,” the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF) launched a series of environmental initiatives and sustainable development projects in the Drâa-Tafilalet region.
A Field Tour to Monitor Environmental Projects
The Director-General of ANEF, Abderrahim Houmy, visited the provinces of Errachidia and Tinghir, accompanied by local authorities and institutional partners.
This tour enabled a review of various projects aimed at enhancing natural resource management and increasing the resilience of local territories against climate change.
Wildlife Protection and Restoration of Saharan Ecosystems
Among the flagship projects presented is the conservation program for the Saharan reserves of M’cissi and Aferdou.
An operation to reintroduce ostriches and dorcas gazelles has been carried out to restore ecological balances and preserve local biodiversity.
Combating Desertification and Protecting Oases
The delegation also visited areas affected by sand encroachment in the province of Errachidia.
Actions are underway to protect oases and infrastructure in the context of advancing desertification and the impacts of climate change.
Development of Inland Fishing at Hassan Eddakhil Dam
At the Hassan Eddakhil Dam, several projects focused on reforestation, shoreline management, and the development of inland fishing were showcased.
The objective is to establish a local fisheries sector by modernizing equipment, promoting sustainable aquaculture, and supporting cooperatives.
A landing site dedicated to fishing cooperatives was also inaugurated to enhance the value and marketing of aquatic products.
Training and Awareness in Sustainable Fishing
An initiative for a fishing school was highlighted as part of this dynamic. Its aim is to raise awareness among young people about sustainable sport fishing and the preservation of aquatic environments, with the support of the Moroccan Federation of Ecological Fishing.
In this context, two partnership agreements were signed to strengthen infrastructure management and develop educational programs related to the environment.
Fish Stocking and the Aquapole Project in Errachidia
A fish stocking operation was also carried out with the introduction of one million carp fry into the Hassan Eddakhil Dam, aiming to bolster fishery resources and maintain ecological balance.
Furthermore, ANEF presented the Aquapole project in Errachidia, a regional platform dedicated to aquaculture, training, and green entrepreneurship in arid areas.
Towards a Sustainable Territorial Development Model
Through these initiatives, ANEF aims to promote a model of sustainable development based on the conservation of natural resources, the involvement of local populations, and the enhancement of oasis territories, which are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change.
