The World Bank has approved $250 million in funding to enhance the resilience of Morocco’s agri-food system against climate change and improve food quality and safety.
In a statement, the Washington-based financial institution explained that “the new program aims to bolster resilience to climate change and manage risks in rainfed agriculture by promoting climate-smart practices and improving water and soil management through resource-preserving farming methods.”
The program will help improve livelihoods and increase job quality by stabilizing crop yields and mitigating climate risks. This includes expanding no-till farming and increasing the area covered by reformed agricultural insurance systems.
Additionally, the initiative will enhance food security by expanding organic farming to 25,000 hectares, improving olive oil quality monitoring, and reducing food-related health risks. It also includes updating health standards for approximately 1,200 food outlets.
According to the World Bank, the program aims to support farmers in producing and marketing high-quality foods, increasing their income through better market access. It will also reduce food waste, strengthen public and private sector capacities, and raise awareness of food security. Overall, the program is expected to benefit 1.36 million people, including around 120,000 farmers and over one million consumers.
Ahmedou Moustapha Ndiaye, Regional Director for the Maghreb and Malta at the World Bank, stated: “This innovative program supported by the World Bank will help Morocco secure green job opportunities in rural areas and bolster national food security, aligning with the country’s Green Generation 2020-2030 strategy.”
A $5 million grant from the Living Planet Fund will strategically support the program by assisting small farmers through an innovative subsidy system, facilitating their transition from traditional to climate-friendly farming practices.
