This initiative, carried out in the Marrakech-Safi region and similar to other regions of the Kingdom, aims to unify the relationship with customers, simplify procedures, improve the quality of services and bring them closer to citizens in order to effectively meet their expectations and contribute to improving the business climate.
The company, whose launching ceremony was chaired by the wali of the Marrakech-Safi region, governor of the prefecture of Marrakech, Farid Chourak, will also have the mission of guaranteeing high quality services meeting the needs of citizens, in replacement of the previous distributors, namely RADEEMA in Marrakech, RADEES in Safi, and the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water.
The company’s scope of intervention covers the prefectures of Marrakech and the provinces of Chichaoua, Al Haouz, El Kelaâ des Sraghna, Essaouira, Rehamna, Safi and Youssoufia.
In a statement to MAP, the company’s general manager, Iqbal Toumi, described this launch as an “important and exceptional moment”, specifying that it is part of the implementation of law 83-21 relating to regional multi-service companies.
He added that this opportunity is a good opportunity to inform the various managers and stakeholders of the content of the management contract, lasting 30 years, noting that the company serves 251 local authorities bringing together nearly 4.9 million inhabitants.
The director also highlighted the challenges to be met, particularly in a region experiencing rapid urban and demographic growth, adding that this region has significant development potential to exploit.
Mr. Toumi also insisted on the need to combine the efforts of various stakeholders to meet the demands of citizens, in order to guarantee the quality of services and territorial equity.
The company was founded with a capital of 100 million dirhams, distributed between the State (25%), the group of local distribution authorities (40%), the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (25%) and the Regional Council (10%).
The creation of regional multi-service companies is part of advanced regionalization and the application of Law 21.83, aiming to establish a company in each region to coordinate the action of the different players in the distribution sector, increase the efficiency of investments, provide the necessary resources and fill the gaps in the distribution of water, electricity and liquid sanitation.
The launching ceremony brought together several heads of external services, representatives of institutions and local authorities.
– What are the expected benefits of the new utility company for the residents of Marrakech-Safi?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Iqbal Toumi, General Manager of the New Utility Company in Marrakech-Safi
Editor: Welcome, Mr. Toumi, and thank you for joining us today. The recent launch of your company in the Marrakech-Safi region has generated significant interest. Could you tell us what prompted this initiative?
Iqbal Toumi: Thank you for having me. This initiative was primarily driven by the need to unify customer relationships and simplify service procedures. We recognized that citizens were seeking more efficient and accessible services, and this new organization is designed to meet those expectations directly.
Editor: That’s fascinating. The goal of improving the business climate is critical. How do you envision your company contributing to that?
Iqbal Toumi: We aim to enhance the quality of services provided to citizens. By replacing the previous distributors, like RADEEMA and RADEES, we’ll ensure that our operations align better with the actual needs of the community. This will help create a more favorable business environment by fostering trust and reliability in our services.
Editor: You mentioned the geographical scope covering several prefectures and provinces. How will you ensure consistent quality of service across such a diverse area?
Iqbal Toumi: Our approach involves standardized procedures and a unified service framework across the prefectures of Marrakech, Chichaoua, Al Haouz, and others. We are setting up a robust training system for our staff to ensure that every team member upholds the same standards of service, no matter where they are located.
Editor: Community engagement seems essential for this initiative. How do you plan to involve citizens in the process, and what role will their feedback play?
Iqbal Toumi: Community feedback is invaluable to us. We plan to establish direct communication channels with citizens, including surveys and community meetings. It’s crucial that our services reflect their needs. This engagement will help us continuously improve and adapt our offerings.
Editor: Speaking of service improvement, are there any specific innovations or technologies you’re planning to implement?
Iqbal Toumi: Absolutely. We’re looking to integrate digital platforms to streamline service requests and bill payments, making the process more user-friendly. Innovations like mobile apps for customer support and real-time service tracking will enhance customer experience significantly.
Editor: That sounds promising. In your opinion, what impact do you foresee this initiative having on the local economy?
Iqbal Toumi: By improving access to essential services, we anticipate a positive ripple effect on local businesses. When citizens feel supported and satisfied with their utilities, they are more likely to invest in their communities, leading to economic growth and development.
Editor: As you embark on this journey, what are your hopes for the future of this initiative?
Iqbal Toumi: My hope is that we create a model of excellence in public service delivery that can be replicated throughout the Kingdom. It’s about setting a standard where citizens feel valued and where businesses thrive in a supportive environment.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Toumi, for sharing your insights. Your enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s clear that this initiative could mark a significant transformation in the Marrakech-Safi region.
Iqbal Toumi: Thank you for having me. We’re excited about what’s to come and are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of the citizens we serve.