The World Bank has passed a $350 million financing program to support Morocco implement its National Program for Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation (PNAEPI) 2020-2027.
This aligns with the framework of the 30-year National Water Plan (PNE) 2020-2050. PNAEPI aims to enhance water security by accelerating investments in the sector and boosting the resilience of drinking water supply and irrigation.
The program aligns with the World Bank’s strategic priorities in the MENA Region, particularly around gender and climate change.
“Providing access to natural resources, particularly water, while preserving them, is essential for building a sustainable future in Morocco,” said Jesko Hentschel, Country Director for the Maghreb and Malta at the World Bank.
Hentschel added: “To this end, this new Program aims to reinforce water security for all in Morocco and provides support for the updating and the adoption of the PNE that defines the 30-year vision for the water sector.”
Furthermore, the program will strengthen water sector governance by protecting groundwater resources, improving the quality and availability of water-related information, and supporting the performance of river basin agencies.
“This Program will contribute to the government’s efforts to strengthen recognition of the value of water, increase transparency of costs along the water value chain and incentivize more efficient and rational uses of scarce water resources,” according to Marcus J. Wishart, Lead Water Resources Management Specialist and Program co-leader at the World Bank.
