This performance testifies to the expertise and commitment of the Moroccan teams mobilized, who ensure the entirety of the studies, implementation and quality control of this ambitious project.
Supported by the Ministry of Equipment and Water, the Sidi Abbou dam is part of a global strategy to develop the water resources of the Sebou basin.
This major hydraulic project, representing an investment of 1.28 billion dirhams, aims to meet the growing water needs of the region and support its socio-economic development.
In a statement to MAP, the head of development of the Sidi Abbou dam, Nizar Zakaria, highlighted the strategic importance of this work for the province of Taounate and the Sebou hydraulic basin.
“The Sidi Abbou dam is among the most important hydraulic works in the region,” he declared.
He then presented the key features of the dam, highlighting its ability to create a large reservoir of water.
“This dam will allow the creation of a reservoir of 200 million cubic meters, extending over an area of 833 hectares between the provinces of Taounate and Taza,” he explained.
Mr. Zakaria continued by detailing the technical specificities of these two structures: “The main dam rises to a height of 72 meters on the foundation, for a crest length of 148 meters, and a total concrete volume of 240,000 cubic meters. The dike, for its part, reaches 41 meters in height, extends over more than a kilometer and represents a volume of fill of more than 2 million cubic meters.
Concerning the progress of the project, Mr. Zakaria was pleased with the respect of the schedule, and even its anticipation.
For him, “the work has reached a progress rate of 78% and should be completed in August 2025, one year before the initially planned date”.
The dam manager was keen to underline the exclusive participation of Moroccan companies in this project, as well as its beneficial effects for regional development.
“This project is entirely carried out by Moroccan design offices and companies. It will contribute to the socio-economic development of the region by stimulating tourist and agricultural activities, in particular through water retention and the creation of new roads access which will open up the surrounding villages”, he said.
The Sidi Abbou dam is characterized by its innovative technical design, combining a main dam in roller compacted concrete (RCC) and a zoned pass dike in clay core embankment which closes the reservoir on the left bank.
This infrastructure will allow the creation of a significant water reservoir. The dam is also equipped with ancillary structures for optimal management of water resources, including a flood spillway, a bottom drain, a drinking water intake, an agricultural intake and a factory intake for possible hydroelectric production.
The commissioning of the Sidi Abbou dam will have multiple positive impacts for the region. It will secure the supply of drinking water, allow the development of irrigated agriculture on 5,000 hectares, offer protection against flooding and contribute to job creation by offering more than 360,000 days of work during the construction of the dam.
The Sidi Abbou dam thus represents a strategic investment for the sustainable development of the Taounate province, demonstrating Morocco’s commitment to integrated and sustainable management of its water resources.
Interview: The Sidi Abbou Dam Project – A Step Towards Sustainable Development
Interviewer: Good afternoon, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Nizar Zakaria, the head of development for the Sidi Abbou Dam project, an ambitious initiative that reflects Morocco’s commitment to sustainable water management and socio-economic development. Thank you for joining us, Mr. Zakaria.
Nizar Zakaria: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss this significant project.
Interviewer: The Sidi Abbou Dam has been highlighted as a critical part of the resource management strategy for the Sebou basin. Could you explain the primary goals of this project?
Nizar Zakaria: Certainly. The Sidi Abbou Dam is not just an infrastructure project; it represents a crucial effort to meet the growing water demands of the region. It’s designed to create a reservoir of approximately 200 million cubic meters, which will significantly support agricultural activities, drinking water supply, and various industrial uses in the provinces of Taounate and Taza.
Interviewer: That’s impressive! The investment of 1.28 billion dirhams is quite substantial. How will this investment translate into benefits for the local communities?
Nizar Zakaria: Absolutely. This project is expected to enhance the socio-economic development of the region by ensuring reliable access to water. Increased water availability will boost agricultural production, which is vital for local economies, and it will foster job creation, ultimately improving the livelihoods of many families in Taounate and Taza.
Interviewer: You mentioned the dam’s technical specifics, such as its height and capacity. Can you elaborate more on the engineering aspects that make this project stand out?
Nizar Zakaria: The design of the dam is indeed remarkable. The main dam will stand 72 meters tall with a crest length of 148 meters, featuring a total concrete volume of 240,000 cubic meters. The associated dike, reaching 41 meters in height, extends over a kilometer. These structures are designed not only to hold a substantial volume of water but also to withstand potential environmental stresses, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Interviewer: It’s great to see such thorough planning. You mentioned that the project is progressing well, with a completion rate of 78%. What factors contributed to this efficiency?
Nizar Zakaria: Several factors have played a role. First, we’ve assembled a highly skilled team of Moroccan experts who are dedicated to overseeing every phase of the project, from studies and implementation to quality control. Additionally, strong support from the Ministry of Equipment and Water has been instrumental. We’re also leveraging local resources and companies, which enhances our efficiency and helps stimulate the local economy.
Interviewer: That’s inspiring, especially to see local expertise being utilized. Looking ahead, what can the public expect upon the project’s completion in August 2025?
Nizar Zakaria: Upon completion, the Sidi Abbou Dam will not only provide a vast reserve of water but also establish a model for future hydraulic projects in Morocco. We hope it will foster more sustainable practices in water management and inspire similar initiatives across the country. The availability of water resources will undeniably lead to flourishing agricultural practices and better quality of life for the community.
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights, Mr. Zakaria. The Sidi Abbou Dam project truly embodies the vision for sustainable growth in Morocco, with the potential to change lives for the better.
Nizar Zakaria: Thank you for having me. I look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will create for our communities.
Interviewer: And we look forward to keeping our audience informed about the progress. Thank you again for your time, and best wishes for the successful completion of the Sidi Abbou Dam!