Morocco is positioning seawater desalination as a primary pillar of its national water security, with a target to source 60% of its drinking water from the ocean by 2030. CNN has characterized this strategy as a “judicious” approach and a model for other African nations, according to reports from برلمان.كوم and H24info.
- 2030 Target: 60% of drinking water to be sourced from seawater desalination.
- Primary Focus: Atlantic coast desalination infrastructure.
- Supporting Tech: “Water highways” and floating solar panel studies.
- Global Recognition: Cited by CNN as an example for the African continent.
How Morocco is Scaling Atlantic Desalination
The Moroccan government is establishing Atlantic desalination as a central component of its hydric strategy to combat water scarcity. According to برلمان.كوم, the goal is to ensure a significant portion of the nation’s potable water comes from the ocean within the next six years. This shift is part of a broader effort to reduce reliance on traditional rainfall and groundwater.
CNN highlighted the strategy as a “judicious” move, framing Morocco’s infrastructure development as a potential blueprint for other countries across Africa facing similar climate pressures, according to H24info.
The Impact of “Water Highways” on Resource Security
Beyond desalination, the country has implemented large-scale transport systems to redistribute water. L’Economiste reports that the creation of “water highways” has played a critical role in securing resources, allowing the state to move water from areas of abundance to regions facing acute shortages.
Evaluating Floating Solar Potential on Dams
Morocco is also exploring the integration of renewable energy with water storage. A study evaluating the potential of floating solar panels on dams has been conducted to assess how these installations could reduce evaporation and generate power. However, Le Desk reports that the study does not mask its own uncertainties regarding the full implementation and long-term efficacy of the technology.
The Role of Decentralized Cooperation
The success of Morocco’s water initiatives is not solely dependent on federal infrastructure. According to Midi Libre, decentralized cooperation has been a key factor in the successful management and delivery of drinking water, emphasizing the importance of local partnerships in executing the national strategy.
