From January 14 to 16, 2025, Rabat, the capital of Morocco, hosted a high-level workshop dedicated to the sustainable management of water resources in Africa. This event is of capital importance in a context where issues linked to water are becoming more and more pressing. The management of water resources, which constitutes a central element of the economic and social development of the African continent, requires an innovative and effective approach. Faced with the scarcity of water resources, the devastating impacts of climate change and a constantly increasing population, the search for sustainable solutions is becoming a priority. This workshop brought together experts, government decision-makers and representatives of international institutions to explore the opportunities offered by nuclear science and technology to improve the monitoring and management of water resources on a Pan-African scale. Proud to be part of this global initiative, Morocco has demonstrated its commitment to innovation and international cooperation to address these global challenges.
A strategic partnership for sustainable water management
The workshop was organized in partnership with key stakeholders, including the American CRDF Global Foundation, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United States Department of State and the Department of Energy Security and UK Net Zero Emissions. These international partners have united to provide African countries with innovative solutions in water management and environmental preservation.
This event is part of the Sustained Dialogue on the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Science and Technology, a global initiative aimed at integrating nuclear technologies into essential sectors such as water, environment, health and agriculture .
The workshop also highlighted the importance of alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those relating to access to drinking water, sanitation and sustainable management of natural resources. This meeting represents a model of international cooperation, aiming to guarantee responsible and equitable management of water resources, accessible to all, while taking into account the ecological and social imperatives of the African continent.
Objectives and issues of the workshop
The main objective of this regional workshop was to strengthen the capacities of African countries in the assessment and management of their water resources. Particular attention has been paid to the use of nuclear and isotopic technologies, which allow precise monitoring of water quality, identification of its origin and distribution, as well as detection of contamination or degradation. These tools help countries better understand the complex dynamics of their water resources, a crucial element in a context marked by climate change and rapid urbanization.
The workshop also addressed the pressing challenges facing many African countries, such as water pollution, increasing resource scarcity and the environmental impacts associated with global warming. The discussions focused on the development of public policies based on precise and up-to-date scientific data, thus facilitating informed decisions for sustainable management of water resources.
Furthermore, the event highlighted the importance of regional and international integration in the management of water resources. By promoting the exchange of data, expertise and good practices between countries, the workshop paved the way for more coordinated and shared management of water resources on a continental scale. African countries were encouraged to strengthen their collaboration in research and technological innovation to jointly address water challenges.
High-level international participation
-This workshop brought together around 120 participants from 31 countries, including 25 African countries. Speakers include policy makers, scientists, water management experts, as well as representatives from the IAEA, the UN and several regional institutions. This diversity demonstrates the crucial importance of the event for the international community, given that water represents a global challenge requiring close cooperation.
The presence of such a variety of actors has favored the creation of synergies which should ultimately lead to more innovative solutions better adapted to local specificities. The exchanges between the different profiles of participants made it possible to identify a common vision on the need to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies to ensure more sustainable and equitable management of water resources.
Particular emphasis was placed on the role of technological innovation in supporting African public policies. In addition, the importance of maintaining a permanent dialogue between governments, researchers and international institutions was highlighted to optimize interventions and guarantee the effectiveness of initiatives in the management of water resources.
The key role of Moroccan Organizations in the management of water resources
Moroccan organizations involved in the management of water resources, such as the National Office of Water and Sanitation (ONEE), the General Directorate of Hydraulics (DGH) and the CNESTEN (National Center of Energy, Nuclear Sciences and Techniques), played a central role during this workshop. ONEE and DGH are essential players in the management of drinking water supply and sanitation in Morocco. For example, ONEE implements innovative solutions to address water supply challenges, particularly in rural and arid areas where access to water is crucial. Thanks to its expertise, ONEE pilots strategic projects that promote more sustainable and equitable management of water resources on a national scale.
For its part, the DGH is responsible for the planning and management of hydraulic infrastructure, particularly with regard to the construction of dams and the improvement of irrigation systems. The agency also plays a key role in the management of groundwater resources by developing projects aimed at optimizing water use in the face of drought and population growth.
As for CNESTEN, as a center of excellence, it is a pioneer in research and innovation in water management. It develops advanced treatment technologies, notably using radiometry and isotopes to better analyze and manage groundwater resources. These innovations contribute to improving the efficiency of the management of the country’s water resources.
Through these initiatives, Morocco reaffirms its commitment to scientific innovation and sustainability. By integrating these cutting-edge technologies, the country guarantees more rational management of its water resources, in accordance with the sustainable development policy established by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, which places innovation and scientific research at the heart of the project. national development.
In addition, Morocco plays a leading role in the Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement for Africa, particularly in the areas of research and training on the management of natural resources and nuclear energy. This strengthens its relations with African countries and consolidates its position as a model for sustainable management of natural resources on the continent.
