Morocco’s dam strategy secures water sovereignty under King Mohammed VI

Under the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, Morocco has transformed its dam policy into a cornerstone of national water sovereignty. This strategic approach has yielded a robust water infrastructure, positioning the Kingdom as a regional leader in hydraulic engineering and water resource management, the Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, announced.

By the end of 2026, Morocco will boast 156 major dams with a total capacity of 20.8 billion cubic meters. Currently, 14 additional dams are under construction, reinforcing the nation’s expertise in hydraulic engineering, technical studies, civil engineering, and water infrastructure management. This progress stems directly from the proactive vision of His Majesty the King, as highlighted during the second edition of the MAP Town Hall, themed “The Royal Vision of Water: Foundation of Hydric Sovereignty and Territorial Equity”.

Building resilience through large-scale infrastructure

The minister underscored the vital role these hydraulic assets play in enhancing territorial and population resilience. Between 2021 and 2026 alone, eight major dams were completed, ensuring efficient and rational water demand management for years to come. Thanks to this year’s rainfall and the Kingdom’s strategic water infrastructure, Morocco now enjoys a minimum of two years of water security for both potable and irrigation uses nationwide.

Small dams amplify rural water access

Complementing the large dam network, Morocco is accelerating its small dam initiative. A joint program with the Ministry of Interior aims to construct 155 small dams by the end of 2028. These projects target rural communities, securing groundwater supplies and creating long-term reserves for future generations.

The Royal Vision integrates multiple strategies—dam construction, basin-based governance, seawater desalination, wastewater recycling, and climate adaptation—to build a diversified water portfolio. By 2030, unconventional water sources like desalination will meet 60% of Morocco’s potable water needs, ensuring sustainable supply even in arid conditions.

Water highways foster national solidarity

Inter-basin connections and water highways are progressively forging a unified water security framework. These systems ensure reliable water access for urban hubs and rural communities, reinforcing territorial justice. “Water highways are critical to safeguarding hydric security across all regions,” the minister emphasized.

Expert insights on sustainable water governance

Mohammed Benahmed, an international territorial development expert, praised Morocco’s vast water heritage, calling for long-term stewardship. He stressed the need for performance evaluations, multi-year maintenance budgets, and efficient dam governance. To sustain such a vast infrastructure, innovative financing models—like green bonds, climate funds, blended loans, and public-private partnerships—are essential.

Mohamed Amrani, FAO’s principal policy officer for North Africa, highlighted that hydric sovereignty requires balanced regional arbitration grounded in equity, sustainability, productivity, and solidarity. Effective water governance must balance supply security with cost efficiency to avoid excessive financial burdens.

The MAP Town Hall serves as a platform for constructive dialogue among policymakers, experts, and development stakeholders. This second edition brought together public and private sector leaders alongside media representatives to foster informed public debate.