Last week, CropLife Morocco and CropLife Africa Middle East organised a workshop on the topic of ‘Promoting the transition of Moroccan agriculture towards sustainable food systems: From theory to action’. In light of water stress, climate change, new pest pressures, and the rise of plant diseases in recent years, agriculture in Morocco is now dealing with multiple threats in 2024. The sector must tackle three challenges simultaneously: transitioning towards sustainable food systems, while reducing food insecurity, and remaining competitive in international markets. All these also with the ambition of achieving the goals of the Green Generation plan of the Kingdom of Morocco – which notably aims to increase agricultural productivity and create a middle class of farmers in Morocco. Achieving a balance between the economic, social, and environmental pillars of sustainability will be a key challenge for the future. Therefore, the objective of the workshop was to discuss such challenges but above all the opportunities. For this occasion, various actors across the food value chain, from producers-exporters to industry, as well as government representatives, regulatory authorities and research institutes, were gathered. It was noted that, to ensure a transition that leaves no one behind, it is necessary to implement a localised green transition adapted to the specific needs of Morocco, taking into account geographical, climatic, and economic aspects. Several key elements have been identified in this regard, such as:
In the afternoon of the workshop, the focus was on the Sustainable Pesticide Management Framework – launched by CropLife in Morocco end of 2022 – which illustrates CropLife’s ambition to protect human health, preserve the environment while optimising agricultural productivity, notably through research and innovation as well as increased cooperation between the public. By taking a localised approach, the SPMF therefore contributes to sustainable food systems, while contributing to food security and maintaining trade. Stay tuned for more about the SPMF in Morocco!
