On the sidelines of the Administrative Council meeting of the Water Basin Agency for Sakia El Hamra and Wadi Al-Dhahab for the years 2022 and 2023, the Minister of Equipment and Water, Mr. Nizar Baraka, clarified that the mentioned basin experienced a significant deficit in rainfall during the hydrological year 2021-2022, reaching approximately 43%, negatively impacting the water table levels.
In a statement delivered on behalf of the Minister of Equipment and Water by Mr. Mustafa Fares, the Secretary-General of the Ministry, it was revealed that the deficit in rainfall continues into the hydrological year 2022-2023, estimated at 46% compared to the annual average.
Given the potential problems arising from this situation in meeting all water needs, Mr. Nizar Baraka affirmed that the government has undertaken structured programs in the Sakia El Hamra and Wadi Al-Dhahab basin. Several projects have been programmed to overcome this challenging situation.
In this context, the Secretary-General of the Ministry disclosed that efforts are underway to expand the seawater desalination plant in Tarfaya, expand the water treatment plant for agriculture in Laayoune and Tan-Tan, and continue preparing boreholes and conducting exploratory drilling to enhance understanding of groundwater layers and characteristics. This aims to harness water resources to address the temporary shortages in drinking water, especially in rural areas.
Additionally, Mr. Mustafa Fares confirmed that the government and the ministry are working together to complete small and medium-sized dams according to the proposals of regional committees chaired by the governors. This includes the implementation of two projects using treated wastewater for irrigation in the cities of Laayoune and Dakhla, aiming to alleviate pressure on conventional water resources in green spaces and belts.