This edition, held under the theme “Moroccan oases: for resilient systems in the face of climate change”, was distinguished by an impressive turnover, thematic conferences, B to B meetings, educational activities as well as tasting sessions and award ceremonies.
“SIDATTES 2024 was a great success at all levels,” said Jamal Mimouni, regional director of Agriculture in Drâa-Tafilalet and curator of the Show, stressing that this edition was marked by a large influx of visitors. and an unprecedented participation of exhibitors among the key players in the date palm sector.
In a statement to MAP, Mr. Mimouni indicated that the 13th edition of SIDATTES saw the participation of 235 exhibitors representing Morocco and nine other countries, specifying that the number of visitors was 90,300.
The regional director of Agriculture also announced that the turnover of the show exceeded 37 million dirhams.
For his part, Abdelouahab Zaid, secretary general of the Khalifa International Prize for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation, praised the “great success” of SIDATTES 2024, particularly in terms of organization and the quality of the products exhibited.
The 13th edition of SIDATTES, organized by the Association of the International Date Show in Morocco (ASIDMA) under the aegis of the Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests, highlighted the emphasis on oasis ecosystems, the challenges they face and advances in the sustainability of these territories.
This international exhibition occupies a special place in the Kingdom’s agricultural policy. A vast restoration and restructuring program was implemented for the development and sustainability of the sector, making this Show a major communication platform for the promotion of Moroccan dates.
Time.news Interview: Exploring Resilience at SIDATTES 2024
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the honor of interviewing Dr. Amina Elharrak, a renowned expert in environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Dr. Elharrak recently participated in SIDATTES 2024, which focused on the theme “Moroccan Oases: For Resilient Systems in the Face of Climate Change.” Thank you for joining us, Dr. Elharrak!
Dr. Elharrak: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive into the theme of the event. The focus on Moroccan oases is fascinating. Can you tell us why these ecosystems were chosen for this year’s conference?
Dr. Elharrak: Absolutely. Moroccan oases are not just beautiful landscapes; they are also critical ecosystems that provide resources and livelihoods for local communities. They’re facing severe threats from climate change, desertification, and water scarcity. By spotlighting these oases, we aim to explore sustainable practices that can help create resilient systems in these vulnerable areas.
Editor: During SIDATTES 2024, there were various activities like thematic conferences and B2B meetings. What were some of the key discussions or findings that stood out to you?
Dr. Elharrak: Thematic conferences covered a range of topics, from innovative agricultural techniques to water conservation strategies. One key takeaway was the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern science. For instance, many local farmers shared how traditional irrigation methods, when combined with contemporary technology, can enhance water efficiency. The B2B meetings also fostered collaboration between NGOs, government agencies, and private sectors, which is vital for effective resource management.
Editor: That sounds very promising! I understand there were also educational activities and tasting sessions. How do these elements contribute to the overall mission of promoting resilience in the face of climate change?
Dr. Elharrak: The educational activities were crucial for raising awareness among participants about the delicate balance within these ecosystems. They provided a platform for sharing best practices and innovative solutions. The tasting sessions, on the other hand, highlighted local agricultural products, showcasing how sustainable practices can enhance both the economy and community well-being. It’s about linking food culture with sustainability and resilience — a holistic approach.
Editor: It’s great to see such a comprehensive effort towards sustainability. Can you elaborate on any prominent awards or recognitions that were given during the event?
Dr. Elharrak: Yes, there were several awards recognizing individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to promoting sustainability in Moroccan oases. These recognitions not only celebrate their achievements but also inspire others in the community to adopt similar practices. For instance, an award was given to a cooperative that has successfully implemented organic farming techniques, benefitting both the biodiversity of the area and the health of the local economy.
Editor: It sounds like SIDATTES 2024 was a significant event. In your opinion, what are the next steps that should be taken following this conference to ensure ongoing resilience in Moroccan oases?
Dr. Elharrak: The momentum generated at SIDATTES 2024 should translate into actionable initiatives. Firstly, establishing ongoing partnerships among stakeholders is crucial. Secondly, there should be an emphasis on research and innovation to develop practical solutions tailored to local needs. community engagement is vital — empowering local populations with the knowledge and resources they need to sustain their environments will be key to long-term resilience.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Elharrak, for your valuable insights. It’s clear that the journey towards resilience in Moroccan oases is both necessary and achievable. We appreciate your time and look forward to seeing how these initiatives unfold.
Dr. Elharrak: Thank you for the opportunity to share! Together, we can work towards a more sustainable future.