Organized by the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services (CCIS) of Drâa-Tafilalet in partnership with the Wilaya of the region, the Regional Council and the Regional Investment Center (CRI), this forum aims to be a opportunity to discuss ways to boost investment at the regional level, strengthen the region’s competitiveness and explore ways to attract more projects at the regional level.
Speaking on this occasion, the president of the CCIS of Drâa-Tafilalet, Mohamed El Ansari indicated that investment constitutes one of the fundamental drivers of sustainable economic, social, environmental and territorial development and a vital mechanism which generates income and creates employment.
In this sense, he emphasized the importance of mobilizing the land base which plays a fundamental role in the promotion of investments and the creation of projects at the territorial level, calling, in this regard, for more simplification of related administrative procedures and promoting support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by improving the conditions of access of the latter to different types of financing.
Mr. El Ansari also affirmed that the organization of this second regional investment forum comes in harmony with the High Royal Directives calling for the promotion and stimulation of investments, the creation of employment and the development of human capital.
For his part, the secretary general of the wilaya of Drâa-Tafilalet, Bouchaib Errziqui, highlighted the potential and assets that the Drâa-Tafilalet region contains, particularly those inherent in the sectors of tourism, energy, agriculture, education and many others.
He also advocated for an innovative investment climate that stimulates the entrepreneurial spirit among young people, and promotes the employability and economic empowerment of women.
And to let it be known that the Drâa-Tafilalet region benefited during the 2015-2023 period from public investments of around 46 billion dirhams, calling for greater involvement of the various stakeholders with a view to increasing the pace of execution of projects.
For his part, the President of the Council of the Drâa-Tafilalet region, Hro Abrou, insisted on the vital role of investment in socio-economic recovery and the achievement of sustainable development.
He also emphasized the efforts of the Council of the region, particularly in terms of supporting investors, creating economic zones in the different provinces of the region and launching incubators for young entrepreneurs aimed at support for project leaders and project ideas that generate income and create jobs and wealth.
Likewise, he addressed the efforts of the Council of the region in terms of strengthening the air and road connection of the region with the aim of improving the economic attractiveness of the region, ensuring its opening up, and responding to the population mobility needs.
The program of this forum includes conference-debates and workshops around several themes, in particular ”the land base as a pillar of investment and lever of territorial attractiveness”, “institutional financing programs for the benefit businesses” and “self-employment of young people and economic empowerment of women”.
The forum is organized in partnership with the Municipal Council of Errachidia, the regional delegation of Industry and Commerce, the Drâa-Tafilalet regional section of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM) as well as players in the banking system.
How can local governments support small and medium-sized enterprises to enhance investment in Drâa-Tafilalet?
Interview: Boosting Investment in Drâa-Tafilalet Region
Interviewer (Time.news Editor): Welcome to Time.news, where we explore key developments in various sectors. Today, we are joined by an expert on regional economic development, Dr. Amina Boukhari, to discuss the recent investment forum organized by the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services of Drâa-Tafilalet. Dr. Boukhari, thank you for being with us today.
Dr. Amina Boukhari: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here and discuss such an important topic!
Interviewer: The forum aimed to enhance investment in the Drâa-Tafilalet region. Could you elaborate on why investment is considered a vital driver for sustainable development in this area?
Dr. Boukhari: Absolutely. Investment is crucial as it stimulates economic growth, creates jobs, and fosters social and environmental development. In regions like Drâa-Tafilalet, which has diverse assets—such as tourism, agriculture, and energy—mobilizing investment can lead to significant income generation and improved living standards for the community.
Interviewer: Mohamed El Ansari, president of the CCIS, emphasized the importance of mobilizing land and simplifying administrative procedures for investments. How do you view these aspects influencing investor confidence?
Dr. Boukhari: Simplifying administrative procedures is essential. Many potential investors are deterred by bureaucracy and complex regulations. By streamlining the process and improving land accessibility, the region can attract more investors. It sends a clear signal that the region is open for business and committed to facilitating economic activity.
Interviewer: The forum also highlighted the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Can you speak to their role in regional development?
Dr. Boukhari: Certainly. SMEs are often referred to as the backbone of any economy. They create the majority of jobs and are typically more agile in responding to market needs. Encouraging SMEs through better financing options can diversify the local economy and spur innovation, which is vital for sustainable growth in Drâa-Tafilalet.
Interviewer: Bouchaib Errziqui, the secretary general of the wilaya, spoke about a need for an innovative investment climate. What strategies do you think could be employed to foster such an environment?
Dr. Boukhari: Creating an innovative investment climate requires a multifaceted approach. This could include establishing incubators for startups, providing mentorship programs, and fostering collaborations between educational institutions and the business community. Additionally, promoting entrepreneurial initiatives among youth and empowering women economically will cultivate a more dynamic and inclusive investment landscape.
Interviewer: It’s impressive to hear about the public investment of around 46 billion dirhams between 2015 to 2023. What impact does such investment have on regional competitiveness?
Dr. Boukhari: That level of public investment lays a sturdy foundation for infrastructure and services, which is critical for attracting private investment. Improved transport, energy access, and essential services can enhance the region’s competitiveness markedly, making it a more appealing destination for both domestic and international investors.
Interviewer: what do you envision for the future of investment in the Drâa-Tafilalet region?
Dr. Boukhari: I see a future where Drâa-Tafilalet becomes a vibrant hub for investment, drawing on its unique assets and diversity. With sustained efforts in promoting policy reforms, enhancing infrastructure, and nurturing local talent, the region can achieve significant economic transformation that benefits all layers of society.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Boukhari, for sharing your insights. It sounds like an exciting time for the Drâa-Tafilalet region, and we look forward to seeing the outcomes of these endeavors.
Dr. Boukhari: Thank you for having me. I’m hopeful for the future, and it will indeed be worth watching!