Under the impetus of Nizar Baraka, Morocco is embarking on a strategic reform of water management by expanding the use of treated wastewater in agriculture. This measure is part of a long-term vision for preserving water resources, as the country faces increasingly marked water stress.
Until now, treated wastewater has mainly been used for irrigating green spaces and golf courses, but it is now expected to play a key role in the agricultural sector. By 2027, the goal is to reuse up to 100 million cubic meters of this water, compared to 37 million in 2023. This ambition is made possible by a regulatory framework currently being unified and significant public funding, estimated at over 500 million dirhams per year.
Beyond the numbers, the Ministry of Equipment aims to establish a paradigm shift. With the support of hydraulic basin agencies, several pilot projects have emerged, particularly in Tiznit and Settat, where agricultural irrigation with wastewater is becoming a reality. Technical studies and specific agreements accompany this movement, aiming to facilitate its deployment on a larger scale.
However, many challenges remain. Psychological reluctance, health constraints, and technical limitations still hinder farmers’ acceptance, particularly those practicing polyculture. The current regulations, which impose differentiated standards based on crop types, further complicate the equation for small and medium-sized farms.
To overcome these barriers, a joint decree project with the Ministry of Energy Transition has been developed. It provides for the simplification of water quality standards by unifying them for all agricultural uses. These new standards will cover biological, chemical, bacteriological, and physical dimensions to ensure health safety while facilitating the widespread use of treated water.
Beyond agriculture, this reform paves the way for other applications: urban cleaning, road maintenance, firefighting, and even certain industrial uses. Morocco is thus making significant strides towards a more rational and resilient management of its water resources, relying on regulatory innovation and diversification of sources to address climate challenges.