In the face of increasing water scarcity, Morocco is making strides toward a more sustainable future with the construction of a 219-kilometre cross-country water pipeline. This ambitious project, backed by a €100 million ($108 million) loan from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), is set to transform the way the nation manages its precious water resources.
The pipeline will transport desalinated water from Morocco’s Jorf Lasfar plant, located on the Atlantic coast, to the industrial region of Khouribga, where OCP, the world’s largest phosphate producer, operates. This infrastructure is part of the OCP Group’s broader initiative to meet its industrial water needs using only non-conventional water sources, such as desalinated and treated wastewater. The pipeline is expected to deliver 80 million cubic meters of water per year, alleviating pressure on local water supplies that are crucial for agriculture and community use.
Sustainability at the Core
One of the standout features of this project is its focus on sustainability. The pipeline will be powered by renewable energy, aligning with Morocco’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. OCP aims to supply 100% of its water needs through non-conventional sources by 2024, making this project a key pillar in its green transformation. In addition, the use of desalinated water will help free up natural freshwater reserves for agricultural and domestic purposes, improving water availability for other sectors in the region.
Strategic Importance
Water is a critical resource in Morocco, where droughts and water shortages are becoming more frequent due to climate change. By building this pipeline, Morocco is taking a strategic approach to ensuring the long-term availability of water for industrial use, reducing its dependence on vulnerable freshwater sources. This will not only secure the operations of major industries like OCP but also contribute to the climate resilience of the country as a whole.
The project also reflects Morocco’s larger efforts to position itself as a regional leader in sustainable development. By investing in such infrastructure, the nation is showcasing its ability to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship—a message that resonates strongly as global attention increasingly turns toward climate solutions.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Morocco’s water pipeline project is a blueprint for other countries facing similar challenges. The combination of innovative financing, renewable energy integration, and non-conventional water use sets a precedent for how industrial and agricultural sectors can coexist sustainably in water-scarce regions.
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