The Ziz Vélo Oasis d’Aoufous project aims to develop cycling tourism in Errachidia Province, offering visitors a new way to explore the region's oasis landscapes while creating economic opportunities for local communities. Launched on July 14, it is the first bicycle-based ecotourism initiative of its kind in the Drâa-Tafilalet region. This project was presented to journalists during a field visit organized by the National Agency for the Development of Oasis Zones and Argan Trees (ANDZOA).
The initiative combines outdoor activities with the discovery of natural landscapes, cultural traditions, and oasis heritage. Developed in partnership with the tourism destination management association La Route du Mejhoul and the Provincial Tourism Delegation, the project includes plans to establish environmentally friendly cycling routes across the region. This will allow tourists to explore the oases by bicycle, promoting a more sustainable form of tourism.
The project also involves training local guides to accompany visitors, providing residents with opportunities to benefit directly from tourism activities. By supporting local businesses and employment, Ziz Vélo aims to introduce a more sustainable form of tourism while preserving the region's natural and cultural heritage. This initiative is part of ANDZOA's broader efforts to diversify economic activities in oasis communities.
Ziz Vélo is part of the Sustainable Management of Oasis Ecosystems in Morocco Project (PROGEDOM), implemented with support from the Ministry of Agriculture and the World Bank. The program aims to strengthen the resilience of oasis communities, improve living conditions, and protect natural resources. This project complements other initiatives to develop Morocco's oases and support local economic development.
ANDZOA has supported various development initiatives in Errachidia Province, including improvements to irrigation systems and water infrastructure. The agency has also announced additional development initiatives worth more than MAD 25 million, including plans for a marketplace dedicated to dates and other local products in Aoufous. These projects seek to strengthen local economic development while preserving the environmental and cultural heritage of Morocco's oasis regions.
The cycling project is one of several initiatives to promote sustainable tourism and support local communities in Morocco's oases. Other tourism initiatives in Aoufous include plans for a panoramic viewing platform and support for rural tourist accommodation powered by solar energy. These projects aim to create employment opportunities for women and young people, while protecting the region's natural resources.
The Ziz Vélo project and other initiatives by ANDZOA demonstrate Morocco's commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection. By promoting eco-friendly tourism and supporting local communities, these projects contribute to the country's economic growth while preserving its unique cultural and natural heritage. The project's success will depend on its ability to balance tourism development with environmental protection and community engagement.
Key points
- The Ziz Vélo project aims to promote sustainable tourism in Aoufous through cycling routes, local guide training, and preserving the region's natural and cultural heritage.
- The initiative is part of ANDZOA's broader efforts to diversify economic activities in oasis communities and promote sustainable development.
- The project has the potential to create economic opportunities for local communities while protecting the region's environmental and cultural heritage.
