Under the theme “Advanced Regionalization: Between Today’s and Tomorrow’s Challenges”, the second edition of the National Conference on Advanced Regionalization began this Friday in Tangier. This event illustrates Morocco’s commitment to strengthening decentralization and positioning regional development as a pillar of the new national growth model, stated Mbarka Bouaida, president of the Association of Regions of Morocco (ARM).
A roadmap for a new development model
At the opening, Mbarka Bouaida, also president of the Guelmim-Oued Noun Regional Council, praised the organization of this conference, the result of joint efforts between the Ministry of the Interior and the ARM. She recalled that advanced regionalization is a strategic lever for building a more inclusive and sustainable development model.
Mrs. Bouaida emphasized the continuity with the first Conference held in Agadir in 2019. Although notable progress has been made since then, she stressed the urgency of accelerating the implementation of the reforms outlined in the Constitution and the organic law No. 1114 relating to regions.
Strengthening local autonomy for effective governance
The president of the ARM also highlighted the role of regions in building integrated development. She advocated for a qualitative transformation of territorial governance modes, in order to go beyond the administrative or legislative framework and to promote greater local autonomy.
According to Mbarka Bouaida, this ambition must be based on a clear and shared vision, relying on an inclusive dialogue involving institutions, economic actors, civil society, and experts.
Sustainable Development Goals: strategic investments
With a budget envelope of 244 billion dirhams mobilized between 2022 and 2027, the regional programs validated by the Ministry of the Interior illustrate the extent of the efforts made. More than 80% of these resources are dedicated to local industrial investments, aiming to align regional actions with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Mrs. Bouaida also praised the progress made in terms of transparency and openness towards all provinces since 2022. However, she called for a legal clarification of regional competencies to ensure a concrete and effective implementation of reforms.
A reform in service of citizens
Emphasizing the inclusive nature of advanced regionalization, Mrs. Bouaida stated that this reform must meet citizens’ expectations and improve their quality of life. She urged participants to make regionalization a tool for profound transformation of Morocco, while capitalizing on the achievements of recent years to overcome recent crises, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the Al-Haouz earthquake.
A key step for territorial governance
This second edition of the National Conference on Advanced Regionalization aims to be a platform for reflection and exchange. It marks an important step in Morocco’s ambition to build a more effective and equitable territorial governance, while addressing the challenges of an ever-evolving future.