The Moroccan government's Agence nationale des eaux et forêts (ANEF) has unveiled a significant investment plan, allocating 8.4 billion dirhams ($935 million) for the period 2027-2029. This substantial budget aims to bolster the country's water and forestry sectors. According to ANEF, the annual trajectory begins with 816 million dirhams in 2025 and 940 million dirhams projected for 2026, with a goal to exceed 1 billion dirhams in 2027.
In 2025, ANEF's total budget stood at 3.53 billion dirhams, with 2.33 billion dirhams dedicated to investment and 1.19 billion dirhams for operational costs. The agency reported a 35% achievement rate in investment and 87% in operational costs. By June 2026, ANEF had committed 2.11 billion dirhams, representing 62% of its allocated credits. These funds support Morocco's "Forêts du Maroc 2020-2030" strategy, focusing on securing forest domains, restoring ecosystems, and conserving biodiversity.
Between 2021 and 2025, ANEF successfully registered 480,000 hectares of land, bringing the total registered area to 6.8 million hectares, with a securitization rate of 88%. The 2025-2026 reforestation campaign covered 38,135 hectares, while over 227 kilometers of forest roads were opened or maintained in 2025 at a cost of 117 million dirhams. These efforts aim to enhance forest protection and expansion.
A notable achievement is the significant reduction in forest fires. In 2025, 418 fires affected 1,728 hectares, marking a 64% decrease compared to the previous decade's average of 4,860 hectares. ANEF's prevention measures included creating 120 kilometers of firebreaks, clearing 500 hectares, establishing 22 water points, and mobilizing 1,480 watchtowers. Additionally, 7,200 forestry offenses were recorded, representing a 40% decline.
For 2026, ANEF plans to undertake substantial projects, including reforestation of approximately 76,000 hectares, construction of 200 kilometers of forest roads, and protective measures for nearly 84,000 hectares. The agency will also continue to enhance the value of national parks. Although details on the allocation of the triennial budget are not provided, these initiatives demonstrate Morocco's commitment to environmental conservation.
ANEF's efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to managing Morocco's natural resources. By investing in water and forestry, the agency aims to ensure sustainable development and environmental protection. The allocated 8.4 billion dirhams will be crucial in driving these initiatives forward, supporting both ecological conservation and socio-economic growth.
The implementation of these projects is expected to have a positive impact on Morocco's ecosystems and local communities. With a focus on sustainable development, ANEF's strategy seeks to balance environmental protection with economic and social needs. As the country continues to prioritize its natural resources, the outcomes of these initiatives will be closely monitored.
Key points
- Morocco's ANEF allocates $8.4 billion for water and forestry projects from 2027-2029.
- The agency aims to enhance forest protection, restore ecosystems, and conserve biodiversity.
- ANEF reported significant reductions in forest fires and offenses, with plans for further environmental initiatives.
