Today's Edition
ISIDORA CIRIC (DUBAI)
Amidst the backdrop of escalating climate change impacts, high-level MENA region representatives from Morocco, Jordan, and Tunisia stepped forward to share their respective country's innovative approaches, during a World Bank session, held on the sidelines of COP28.
Each of these strategies, meticulously tailored to address unique geographical and climatic challenges, underscore the region's commitment to sustainability and resilience in water resource management.
Morocco's Innovative Water Strategies
Morocco, represented by the Minister of Water and Equipment, Nizar Baraka, outlined a comprehensive plan to tackle water scarcity.
The country's first strategy involves expanding dam capacity to increase water storage from 20 billion cubic metres to 27 billion, including the construction of 18 new dams.
This expansion is crucial for Morocco, given its reliance on agriculture and the increasing demand for water.
Additionally, Morocco is implementing new desalination plants powered by renewable energy, a move that not only addresses water scarcity but also aligns with global sustainability goals. This approach has resulted in cost-effective desalination, as evidenced by specific plants in the country.
The country is also focusing on water redistribution and irrigation efficiency. Developing systems to redistribute water from surplus areas and introducing water-efficient crops are key steps in reducing agricultural water consumption.
Morocco emphasises the preservation of aquifers and integrated water governance, coordinating various sectors to ensure sustainable water usage.
The World Bank supports these initiatives, aiming to establish a clear understanding of water needs by 2050 and improve water mobilisation, conservation, and demand management.
Jordan's Response to Water Challenges
Jordan’s Minister of Water and Irrigation, Eng. Raed Abu Soud, explained that the country faces significant water challenges exacerbated by population growth and the influx of refugees.
Jordan relies heavily on aquifers, he noted, but these sources are depleting due to climate change effects, such as shorter rainy seasons.
To combat this, Jordan has initiated large-scale water projects, including long-distance water transportation systems and plans for a desalination plant.
Private sector involvement is being encouraged to leverage additional resources and expertise in water management.
Jordan is also adopting innovative agricultural practices and wastewater treatment to conserve water, which are crucial for reducing fresh water consumption in agriculture.
Tunisia's Holistic Water Management Approach
Tunisia’s Minister of Environment, Leila Chikhaoui, recognised the substantial impact of climate change on water resources, including reduced water availability due to higher temperatures and decreased rainfall.
The country has a long history of proactive water management, focusing on infrastructure development and dam construction, she noted.
The minister said that Tunisia’s holistic strategy includes improved infrastructure, sustainable agricultural practices, and efficient water policies to enhance water resource resilience.
A key project in Tunisia's strategy is redistributing surplus water to water-scarce central regions, making it vital for alleviating water shortages in agricultural areas.
