Thanks to this proactive Royal policy, Morocco has been able to implement an “integrated approach“, which aims to guarantee food availability, promote sustainable agricultural and rural development, favor the protection of natural resources and adapt to climate change, underlined Mr. Hilale, who spoke during an exceptional session of the Crans Montana Forum (November 14-16).
He explained that this “solidarity and visionary” cooperation of the Sovereign is mainly focused on public and private initiatives, projects and investments to unlock the full potential of sustainable agriculture in Africa.
It is implemented through three instruments, namely: the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, guardian of the orderly execution of the Royal Vision of South-South cooperation; the Ministry of Agriculture, custodian of public policies and sectoral strategies in agriculture; and the OCP Group, the operational arm of this vision and continental leader in the fertilizer market, he added.
The ambassador recalled the launch by Morocco, in 2016, of the Triple A initiative for the Adaptation of African Agriculture to climate change, and the Triple S initiative, with Senegal to support Sustainability, Stability and Security in Africa, as well as the opening by the OCP of 12 representations in the four corners of the continent and the strengthening of the production and distribution of fertilizers in response to the surge in prices fertilizers following the geopolitical conflicts of the last two years.
The Moroccan group also granted thousands of tonnes of fertilizer to several African countries, an action which is part of the solidarity and concern of the Kingdom of Morocco towards African farmers.
Furthermore, the ambassador stressed that food insecurity has become “a global security issue, fueling conflicts, leading to migratory flows, aggravating political instability or providing the basis for violent extremism.”
Mr. Hilale also drew attention to the nexus of food security, climate change and armed conflict, stressing that it constitutes “a self-reinforcing cycle”, where each factor exacerbates the others, thus creating a global challenge for sustainable development. .
Hence the imperative, concluded the ambassador, to “put food security in a perspective of sustainability, social equity, economic development, international solidarity and global peace and security”.
Organized the day after the American presidential elections, this session of the Crans Montana Forum aims to open an in-depth reflection on the challenges of the new era for global security, international relations, economic development, business and investment.
A reference meeting for public decision-makers and the business world who come to discuss major issues, the Crans Montana Forum held several of its sessions in Morocco, more particularly in Dakhla.
What are the key initiatives Morocco is implementing to promote sustainable agriculture in Africa?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Agricultural Policy Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, everyone, to this special interview. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Amina Benjelloun, an expert in agricultural policy and sustainable development. Dr. Benjelloun, it’s great to have you with us!
Dr. Amina Benjelloun (AB): Thank you! It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: Let’s dive straight in. Recently, Morocco’s royal policy has been highlighted for its integrated approach towards agriculture. Can you elaborate on what this integrated approach entails?
AB: Certainly! Morocco’s integrated approach aims to ensure food availability, promote sustainable agricultural practices, and protect natural resources while adapting to climate change. This is not just a reactive strategy; it’s proactive, aiming to create a resilient agricultural sector that can withstand environmental challenges.
TNE: That sounds ambitious! During the recent Crans Montana Forum, Mr. Hilale emphasized the importance of the cooperation led by the Sovereign. How is this cooperation shaping Morocco’s agricultural landscape?
AB: The cooperation mentioned by Mr. Hilale is both visionary and solidarity-driven. It focuses on forming alliances between public and private sectors, fostering initiatives that unlock the potential of sustainable agriculture across Africa. It’s a collaborative model that encourages investment and shared goals.
TNE: Interesting! You mention the partnership between various governmental arms and initiatives. Can you tell us more about the specific roles of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the OCP Group in this vision?
AB: Absolutely. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is crucial as it ensures that Morocco’s Royal Vision for South-South cooperation is implemented effectively. The Ministry of Agriculture focuses on public policy and sector strategies to improve agricultural productivity sustainably. Meanwhile, the OCP Group acts as the operational leader, enhancing fertilizer production and distribution not only in Morocco but across the continent. Together, they form a formidable team that drives agricultural success.
TNE: That’s quite a collaborative effort! You also mentioned the Triple A initiative for the Adaptation of African Agriculture. Could you explain its significance?
AB: The Triple A initiative, launched in 2016, is vital for addressing the impacts of climate change on agriculture in Africa. It aims to enhance resilience among farmers by promoting innovative agricultural practices, improving water management, and increasing crop diversity. It’s a crucial step towards ensuring food security even in the face of climate-induced challenges.
TNE: It sounds like a holistic initiative! There was also mention of the Triple S initiative in collaboration with Senegal. What can you tell us about that?
AB: The Triple S initiative focuses on sustainability, stability, and security in Africa. This collaboration with Senegal emphasizes the need for cooperative frameworks that can ensure political stability and food security, crucial for sustainable development. Together, these initiatives demonstrate Morocco’s commitment to a united African approach to agriculture.
TNE: Morocco has opened 12 representations across the continent. How does this expansion impact agriculture and trade in Africa?
AB: The opening of these representations facilitates better communication and collaboration between Morocco and other African nations. It helps in sharing knowledge, technology, and resources that can significantly improve agricultural practices across the continent. This interconnectedness can lead to stronger trade relations, enhancing food availability and security.
TNE: In closing, what message do you hope policymakers and leaders will take away from Morocco’s approach?
AB: I hope they see the potential of collaborative strategies that integrate both local and international efforts. Sustainable agricultural development isn’t just a national issue; it’s a continental challenge that requires unity, shared knowledge, and investment. Morocco’s model could serve as a framework for other nations looking to address similar challenges.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Benjelloun, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that Morocco’s proactive policies are setting a strong example for sustainable agricultural practices in Africa.
AB: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing these important issues.