The modernization of the irrigation system in the area of Garet in Moulouya in the province of Nador is part of a desire to strengthen agricultural resilience in the face of scarcity of water resources and climate change, as part of the Green Generation Plan 2020-2030. Supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), this program aims to improve the efficiency of irrigation over 13,500 hectares, for the benefit of 2,930 farmers, and to save more than 15 million cubic meters of water per year.
«This project, which extends over three years, from 2022 to 2025, aims to completely switch from traditional irrigation methods to modern techniques, including drip irrigation.», declares Mohamed Melhaoui, president of the Project Management Committee.
Currently, farmers mainly use gravity or sprinkler irrigation, methods that are not very efficient in terms of water management. With new micro-irrigation technology, farmers will be able to optimize water use, reduce losses and improve productivity.
The project to renovate and modernize the irrigation systems of the Garet perimeter in Moulouya in the province of Nador. (M.Chellay/Le360). le360
-
The project includes several technical components, including the construction of water reservoirs, the renovation of pumping stations and the installation of filtration stations. “The establishment of these infrastructures will allow more efficient and reliable water distribution», Specifies the manager.
Read also: Micro-irrigation: Morocco continues its efforts
In addition to infrastructure, an important part of the project concerns the equipment of the farms themselves. This program, financed by the Agricultural Development Fund, aims to provide farmers with on-demand micro-irrigation systems, which will allow them to adapt their water consumption to the real needs of their crops. “The objective is to offer farmers a flexible, precise and modern system, while guaranteeing optimal management of the resource.», explains Mohamed Melhaoui.
The project will benefit the municipalities of Tiztoutine, Hassi Berkane and Bni Oukil Oulad M’hand, located in the province of Nador. By modernizing irrigation systems, this initiative aims not only to strengthen the region’s water security, but also to promote a sustainable agricultural development model.
