The Moroccan Institute of Strategic Intelligence (IMIS) has just presented its latest Policy Paper titled “The Blue Economy Africa-Atlantic in Dakhla: A ‘Success Story’ from the South Facing New Challenges.” This report, developed under the leadership of former Guinea Prime Minister Kabiné Komara, analyzes the transformation of the Moroccan fisheries sector, with a particular focus on the Dakhla-Oued Eddahab region.
This Dakhla model embodies a major success in the development of the blue economy, a strategic sector for the Kingdom. However, according to the authors of the IMIS Policy Paper, it is currently facing multiple challenges that call for innovative responses and strengthened cooperation at both local and international levels.
A Model of Resilience Against Environmental and Commercial Challenges
For two decades, the Dakhla region has established itself as a model of sustainable development in the blue economy. Thanks to public and private investments, Morocco has created a complete ecosystem ranging from the capture of marine resources to their transformation and marketing, the report highlights. This process has generated over 3 billion dirhams in annual revenue and created more than 14,000 direct jobs while fostering broad participation from women and migrant populations.
However, several challenges threaten the sustainability of this model. Among these, the report cites climate change, which alters marine ecosystems, while illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing threatens fishery resources. Additionally, new tariff barriers, including those imposed by the European Court of Justice on agricultural and fishery products from Moroccan Sahara, add to the challenges.
Recommendations to Ensure the Model’s Sustainability
In response to these challenges, the IMIS Policy Paper proposes ten strategic recommendations divided into five main blocks, aimed at strengthening the resilience of Dakhla’s economic model and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
- Strengthen Collaboration and Shared Governance
One of the first recommendations is to integrate public and private stakeholders into joint research programs. This would allow for better monitoring and management of fishery resources. Increased investment in scientific research is essential to adapt fishing practices to new environmental realities. - Promote Innovation and Sustainability
The report also suggests developing modern infrastructures and limiting negative externalities by investing in environmentally friendly technologies. These efforts should accompany the transformation and sustainable valorization of marine resources. - Adapt Morocco’s Response to the CJEU Ruling
To secure the partnership with Europe, IMIS recommends a two-level approach: a short-term response to mitigate the immediate effects of the court ruling and a long-term strategy to sustain trade. The creation of a Special Transition Fund (STF), financed by the EU and other international partners, is also recommended to offset increased customs duties and ensure economic stability in the Southern provinces. - Adapt Local Policies and Practices
The report emphasizes the need to enhance local skills through training programs and to harmonize regional regulatory frameworks for coordinated and sustainable management of fishery resources. - Enhance Resilience and Training
Finally, targeted social protection measures, including professional retraining programs and solidarity funds, are proposed to support local populations during economic transitions. The development of training tailored to the specific needs of blue economy professionals is also essential to strengthen this resilience.
If implemented with determination, these recommendations would enable Morocco to continue positioning itself as a significant player in the blue economy sector while proactively and inclusively addressing global challenges.
Source: hespress
