The region of Guelmim-Oued Noun is working to develop innovative solutions to overcome the problem of water scarcity through seawater desalination projects. The desalination project in the Chbika region is one of the key initiatives aimed at mobilizing water resources with a capacity of up to 30 million cubic meters per year. This project aims to provide a sufficient amount of drinking water and reserve a portion for irrigating agricultural land, thus contributing to establishing a solid development strategy for the region.
Among the objectives of this ambitious project is to supply water to support the economic development of the region by creating an irrigated basin extending over 5,000 hectares, intended for the production of high-value crops. The project relies on modern techniques to improve farmers’ income and increase agricultural production, which will help create sustainable jobs for the local population.
The project includes the construction of a desalination plant with a production capacity of 100,000 cubic meters, supported by an energy plant with a capacity of 40 megawatts to meet the energy needs of the project. This initiative is part of a strategic partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture, the regional council, and the private sector, with a total cost of approximately 2.2 billion dirhams.
The expected impacts of this project include mobilizing new water resources reaching 30 million cubic meters per year and creating about 8.2 million workdays per year, thus enhancing employment opportunities and improving the living standards of local residents. This project represents an important step towards sustainable development and the provision of sufficient water resources to meet the region’s long-term needs.