Moroccan Cooperatives Showcase Local Development Gains

Cooperatives in Morocco's Middle Atlas region celebrated their role in fostering sustainable local development on the International Day of Cooperatives. The event in Khénifra showcased how these cooperatives contribute to the local economy and climate resilience.

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Cooperatives of Ifrane National Park Engage in Strengthening Social and Economic Inclusion and Climate Resilience.

The gathering, a partnership between SOCCODEV and the National Agency for Water and Forests under the "Resilient Women in the Middle Atlas" project, emphasized the social and solidarity economy's impact. It highlighted how these initiatives enhance local resources, promote social and economic inclusion, and build capacity to face climate change.

Local cooperatives displayed their products and engaged with institutional actors and development partners to exchange experiences. The theme, "Cooperatives of Ifrane National Park Engage in Strengthening Social and Economic Inclusion and Climate Resilience," underscored their commitment to regional development through natural resource valorization and adaptation to climate shifts.

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This event was an opportunity to introduce more than 26 supported cooperatives within the framework of the 'Vermal' project, active in the fields of medicinal and aromatic herbs, eco-tourism, and traditional crafts.

Forest cooperatives across Morocco, numbering 320 with over 19,000 members, play a crucial role in sustainable resource management, developing eco-tourism, and creating economic opportunities, particularly for women and youth. This aligns with the "Morocco Forests 2020-2030" strategy, where cooperatives partner with the National Agency for Water and Forests on resource management and forest protection across 200,000 hectares.

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The participation of women's cooperatives supported by the National Initiative for Human Development added added value to this event, by providing a space for experience exchange, and strengthening networking and cooperation opportunities among various actors in the social and solidarity economy sector.

Ali Iqbali, coordinator of the "Resilient Women in the Middle Atlas" project, noted that the event introduced over 26 supported cooperatives in fields like medicinal plants, eco-tourism, and handicrafts. The participation of women's cooperatives, supported by the National Initiative for Human Development, added significant value, fostering experience exchange and networking opportunities.

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This initiative enabled participating cooperatives to exchange experiences and open up to institutions and partners that can contribute to developing their capabilities and increasing their productivity.