In a video message, broadcast at the opening of the International Forum on the local perspective of the “NEXUS Water-Energy-Food Security”, the minister said that this Nexus fits perfectly with the strategic directions of the New Development Model (NMD) and the NSSD, which now sets clear objectives for the transition of Morocco to a low-carbon economy by 2050.
These objectives, she continued, include building resilience, human development, reducing social and territorial inequalities, mitigation and adaptation to climate change, and environmental protection.
In this regard, Benali noted that several initiatives have already been undertaken to promote this Nexus, such as the regional coastal plans aimed at laying the groundwork for integrated management, the territorial climate plans and the national program of solar pumping that will help rationalize the use of resources.
She also noted that the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region has considerable potential in wind energy and a strategic position at the heart of an energy crossroads and gas, especially with Europe.
The region has a total operational capacity of 400 megawatts (MW) of wind power, i.e. about 30% of the capacity installed today in wind energy, with an additional capacity of 320 MW being developed.
The two-day international forum, held by the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima Regional Council and the Mediterranean Climate House, aims to understand the long-term impacts of the water-energy-food security nexus on growth. It also aims to discuss ways to improve coherence between national, regional and local planning and priorities, as well as the importance of promoting private sector investment in the Nexus.
The program of this event includes several sessions and panels on “the opportunities of the Nexus at the territorial level”, “the sharing of experiences between Mediterranean territories”, “the integration of the Nexus in a territorial policy”, and “the accessibility of funding and the financial package.”
Source: Agency Morocaine De Presse