From December 1 to 5 in Marrakech, Morocco is hosting the 19th edition of the World Water Congress, reaffirming its commitment to sustainable management of this vital resource, said Abdelfetah Sahibi, Secretary General of the Ministry of Equipment and Water, on Monday in Rabat.
During a press conference, Mr. Sahibi highlighted that the event, held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI and centered on the theme “Water in a Changing World: Innovation and Adaptation,” reflects the Kingdom’s determination to build a resilient and sustainable future for water, focusing on innovation, cooperation, and collective responsibility.
He emphasized that water security is a pillar of the national water policy and Morocco’s development model, recalling the Kingdom’s decision to renew and strengthen its strategy in this area. Innovation plays a central role, enabling anticipation of global challenges and the development of resilient solutions tailored to future issues.
The return of the Congress to Morocco, 34 years after the 7th edition held in Rabat in 1991, signifies the country’s ongoing commitment to sustainable water management. Jointly organized by the International Water Resources Association (IWRA) and the Ministry of Equipment and Water, the event aims to serve as an international dialogue platform, encouraging the sharing of knowledge, experiences, and the design of concrete solutions.
Yuanyuan Li, President of IWRA, noted that holding the Congress in Morocco underscores the country’s enduring commitment to governance and innovation in the water sector. According to him, the 2025 edition will take place amid profound global changes, including intensifying climate change, rapid population growth, increasing water scarcity, and persistent water quality issues.
The chosen theme highlights the need to rethink water resource management in light of climate uncertainty, water pressures, technological transformations, and the pursuit of more inclusive governance.
The Congress plans to gather governments, universities, civil society, and the private sector to exchange knowledge, innovations, and research outcomes, while showcasing Moroccan expertise in arid environments, desalination, and unconventional water resources. The program includes a ministerial roundtable, four high-level panels, more than 140 technical sessions, and an exhibition space dedicated to innovative water technologies and projects.
The event will conclude with the Marrakech Declaration, a collective call bringing together decision-makers, scientists, and practitioners to strengthen the link between science, policy, and action, and to accelerate global mobilization for water preservation.