The urban commune of Khmisset held its ordinary October 2026 session, focusing on the 2027 financial budget. Despite an increase in Value-Added Tax and land fees, the budget falls short of residents' and council members' expectations. The commune relies heavily on self-generated revenue, with a significant portion allocated to mandatory expenses such as employee salaries, cleaning, and utilities.

Residents and council members highlighted several pressing issues, including inadequate public lighting, which leads to increased crime in poorly lit areas. The commune was urged to replace faulty streetlights and allocate more funds for lighting infrastructure. Additionally, concerns were raised about the fate of cobblestones removed from Mohammed V Street, which is currently undergoing renovation.

The city's green spaces, such as the Resistance Forest and 3 March Park, require urgent attention and maintenance. However, these areas are understaffed, with only six workers available. Council members also emphasized the need for cultural activities and support for local cultural associations. The city's football team, Union de Khmisset, was mentioned as deserving increased financial support.

The condition of the city's roads, sidewalks, and infrastructure was also discussed. The commune's limited resources hinder its ability to address these issues, including the repainting of pedestrian paths and the resolution of problems related to waste collection and disposal. The situation at the city's fish market, health office, and mortuary was also deemed unsatisfactory.

The meeting highlighted the need for the commune to explore alternative revenue sources and prioritize its spending. Council members stressed that the commune's financial constraints hinder its ability to provide essential services and implement development projects. The city's residents and council members reiterated their demands for improved infrastructure, services, and quality of life.

Key areas of concern include public lighting, green spaces, cultural activities, and infrastructure maintenance. Addressing these challenges will require increased funding and effective resource allocation. The commune's efforts to balance its budget while meeting the needs of its residents will be crucial in determining the city's future development.

The Khmisset commune's financial struggles reflect broader challenges faced by many Moroccan cities. Finding sustainable solutions to these issues will be essential for promoting development and improving the quality of life for residents. The commune's leaders will need to prioritize their spending and explore innovative approaches to address the city's pressing needs.

Key points

  • Limited financial resources hinder development in Khmisset city.
  • Public lighting, green spaces, and infrastructure maintenance are key areas of concern.
  • Exploring alternative revenue sources and prioritizing spending are essential for addressing the city's challenges.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.