Morocco has mobilized 300 million dirhams ($33 million) to support agricultural recovery in farms affected by recent floods in the irrigated perimeters of Gharb and Loukkos, Agriculture Minister Ahmed El Bouari announced during a meeting with professional representatives and regional officials in Kenitra on February 27.
Authorities estimate that the floods impacted around 105,000 hectares of farmland, including nearly 85,000 hectares in Gharb and 20,000 hectares in Loukkos. Crops affected include cereals, sugar, forage, legumes, and certain tree plantations, while irrigation networks, pumping stations, rural roads, and drainage infrastructure were also disrupted.
The recovery plan provides seeds and fertilizers to restart spring crops, including oilseeds, cereals, and forage, while a rehabilitation program focuses on dredging irrigation canals, repairing pumping stations, and restoring agricultural roads. Livestock support includes distributing barley and compound feed, alongside strengthened sanitary controls to safeguard milk and meat production.
Authorities had projected a strong rebound in agricultural output following seven years of drought, with the High Commission for Planning forecasting an 80% year-on-year increase in cereal production to over 8 million tons for the 2025/2026 season. However, the floods in Gharb and Loukkos have introduced uncertainty, particularly as water submerged plots during critical vegetative stages, increasing the risk of yield losses. The final impact will depend on the speed of drainage, field conditions, and the effectiveness of recovery measures.
