🇲🇦Le Matin·2 hours ago
Morocco rethinks territorial attractiveness beyond major cities, focusing on integrated development and quality of life
A regional workshop in Casablanca, organized by Morocco's Ministry of National Territorial Planning, Urbanism, Housing, and City Policy, addressed the limitations of the current development model, which has historically concentrated investments and opportunities in Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech. The workshop, attended by ministerial representatives, private sector leaders, and international experts, aimed to establish a common reference framework for regional and local actors, based on relevant indicators and a shared vision of territorial dynamics. Ahmed El Hamidi, Secretary General for Regional Affairs at the Wilaya of Casablanca-Settat, emphasized the need for proactive, integrated, and participatory strategies involving the state, local authorities, the private sector, and civil society. Latifa Nehnahi, Director of the National Territorial Planning Department, highlighted a paradigm shift, stating that each territory should develop according to its unique potential and specificities, moving away from centralized planning focused on poles of excellence. She stressed that territorial attractiveness now includes improving quality of life, ensuring citizens can remain in their regions and live with dignity, alongside productive and temporary attractiveness. An unprecedented study, presented at the workshop, identified eight territorial profiles, including rural areas facing vulnerability and urban centers under pressure or saturated. Mohamed Aabid, Regional Inspector of Ur
