Morocco is intensifying its efforts to secure its water resources. According to the Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, rainwater harvesting projects, combined with efficiency measures, have reduced water consumption by approximately 30% in several regions of the Kingdom.
According to the figures provided, 187 projects have already been completed nationwide, ranging from the construction of semi-buried basins to the establishment of artificial recharge thresholds for aquifers, as well as the installation of rooftop collection systems in schools. Each year, nearly 80 million dirhams are invested, particularly in the most vulnerable areas lacking surface water or permanent aquifers.
Once operational, these infrastructures are then transferred to hydraulic basin agencies or local authorities, responsible for their management and maintenance.
Projects Across Several Regions of the Kingdom
The map of these achievements already covers a large part of the territory: from Tiznit to Chefchaouen, passing through Zagora, Ouarzazate, Safi, Khouribga, and Tetouan. In concrete terms, this represents 159 reservoirs and basins, 23 rooftop collection projects, and 5 recharge thresholds.
And the work is far from finished: 103 additional projects are underway, including 85 reservoirs, 15 collection systems in schools, and 3 thresholds to enhance aquifer recharge.
Towards Sustainable Use of Rainwater
These initiatives are part of the National Water Plan, which aims to promote the use of rainwater for various purposes: irrigation of green spaces, cleaning, domestic uses that do not require potable water, and industrial applications. The goal is clear: to preserve drinking water for essential needs while maximizing the use of alternative resources.
However, the minister reminded that the precise estimation of saved volumes depends on numerous technical parameters: rainfall, nature and orientation of collection surfaces, efficiency of filtration and distribution systems, not to mention regular maintenance.
In summary, rainwater harvesting stands out as a concrete lever to ease pressure on water resources and support Morocco in its strategy for sustainable development.