This region is characterized by an argan tree forest, a wide variety of fruits and vegetables cultivated under both subsistence and export-oriented farming systems. 85% of regional water resources are used for irrigation, while agriculture contributes 14% of the national GDP.
Almost 1.3 million people organized into local communities depend on the direct exploitation of argan trees. This unique cultivation not only sustains these marginalized communities, primarily Berbers, but also empowers local women’s cooperatives engaged in the extraction of valuable by-products such as argan oil. Beyond its economic significance, the cultivation of argan trees holds profound cultural value, deeply rooted in the local identity. However, the current situation presents daunting challenges. The delicate balance of the area is under threat due to conflicting interests. Intensive pastoral practices are jeopardizing the sustainability of the argan forest, which serves as a vital resource. Concurrently, the expansion of intensified agricultural systems poses further threat by encroaching upon the argan forest and intensifying competition for limited water resources. This intricate trade-off situation calls for thoughtful consideration and sustainable strategies to safeguard both the ecosystem and the socio-economic well-being of local communities.
This project has received funding from the PRIMA program and European Union’s H2020 research and innovation programme under Grant Agreement No. 2341
Founded by the European Union through the PRIMA programme Section 1 under Grant Agreement no. 2341 . Views and options expressed are however those of the auther(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the PRIMA Secretariat. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
