Morocco revisits “Generation Green” strategy amid climate pressures
Officials push for climate resilience as water scarcity intensifies
MOROCCO – Morocco is reassessing its flagship agricultural policy, “Generation Green,” as the country faces worsening climate disruptions and mounting pressure on water resources.
Launched in 2020, the program set out to modernize Morocco’s agricultural sector by improving productivity, supporting youth-led enterprises, and creating rural jobs.
But after five years marked by repeated droughts and shifting rainfall, officials say the strategy must now place climate adaptation at its core.
Agriculture Minister Mohamed Sadiki told reporters that Morocco could not ignore the urgency. “The realities on the ground have changed. Water scarcity, soil degradation, and rising temperatures mean we must adjust our approach,” he said.
The revised plan will place greater focus on crops that use less water, advanced irrigation systems, and agroecological methods that restore soil fertility.
Authorities also plan to support climate-smart farming practices that reflect the different vulnerabilities of Morocco’s regions.
“We are not abandoning productivity targets, but resilience now comes first,” said an official at the ministry. The government intends to direct more funds to local food systems, risk management tools, and infrastructure that can withstand climate shocks.
Youth and innovation remain central
Despite the pivot, the Ministry of Agriculture has emphasized that young people remain a key part of the strategy.
New programs will provide financing and mentorship for young innovators working on technology-driven farming solutions.
“Generation Green was built on the idea that Morocco’s future farmers are also its young entrepreneurs,” said Driss Lahlou, an agricultural economist based in Rabat.
“The challenge is to help them create solutions that can withstand droughts and climate stress.”
Incubators and funding windows are under review, with the goal of nurturing start-ups that design tools for water-saving irrigation, digital monitoring, and climate-resilient crops.
Regional lessons and broader impact
Analysts note that Morocco’s recalibration mirrors wider developments across Africa. Kenya and South Africa have recently launched reviews of their agricultural policies to deal with erratic rainfall and dry spells.
“Morocco is not alone in this struggle,” said Fatima Zahra, a climate policy analyst. “Many African states are now realizing that food security depends not just on higher yields but on resilience against climate shocks.”
The Moroccan government hopes the revised Generation Green plan will strike a balance between growth and sustainability in one of the continent’s most water-stressed regions.
Observers believe the country’s experience could provide guidance for others managing farming systems in arid and semi-arid zones.
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