The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a loan of €100 million to support the development of solidarity-based agriculture in Morocco, focusing particularly on women and rural youth. This funding is dedicated to implementing the Support Program for Inclusive Solidarity Agriculture for Women and Youth (PAASIFEJ).
A Targeted Program for Women and Youth in Rural Areas
The project primarily aims to stimulate rural entrepreneurship by establishing appropriate financing mechanisms, as well as enhanced technical and financial support, specifically for women and young people. According to Achraf Tarsim, head of the AfDB office in Morocco, “Women who aspire to undertake and succeed in agriculture are our priority.”
Key Objectives to Strengthen Food Security and Climate Resilience
Besides supporting entrepreneurship, the program seeks to strengthen food security and improve the resilience of small farms against the effects of climate change, a major challenge in Morocco where climatic hazards weigh heavily on agricultural incomes and socio-economic balances in rural areas.
Development of Infrastructure and Integration into Value Chains
The financing will also enable the deployment of new modern agricultural and para-agricultural infrastructures, improve productivity, and strengthen women’s involvement in local value chains. Particular attention will be given to skills development, especially in agro-industrial processing and digital sectors.
Alignment with Morocco’s National Priorities
The program aligns with the “Generation Green 2020-2030” strategy, which aims to transform Moroccan agriculture into a more inclusive, sustainable, and high-performing sector. It also supports the National Program for Solidarity Agriculture as well as the National Youth Entrepreneurship Program.
A Strong Partnership Between AfDB and Morocco
For over fifty years, AfDB has supported Morocco by mobilizing nearly €15 billion for over 150 projects in strategic sectors such as agriculture, energy, water, transport, and social protection. This new commitment strengthens the partnership focused on integrated and sustainable development.
