Water Scarcity in Morocco: The Next Global Conflict

Water scarcity is becoming a critical issue in many parts of the world, and Morocco is no exception. The country is experiencing a serious water scarcity, according to a report from the Moroccan Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Environment, as a result of climate change, population expansion, and resource mismanagement. In the upcoming years, the situation is predicted to get worse, and analysts fear that this might spark regional conflicts or perhaps the start of the next world war.

According to a study from the University of California, Irvine, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) area, which includes Morocco, is already experiencing a rise in tensions and confrontations between neighbouring nations. According to the paper, competition over water resources might heighten already-present geopolitical tensions, resulting in more instability and potentially armed conflict in the region.

The lack of water in Morocco is having an impact not only on the people but also on the agricultural industry, which is a significant component of the national economy. The World Bank estimates that the country’s agriculture sector employs 40% of its workforce and accounts for 15% of its GDP (Gross Domestic Product). Farmers’ livelihoods are in danger due to the water deficit, which might also have serious economic repercussions for the nation.

The rising crisis in Morocco and the broader MENA region requires a response from the international community. Maintaining a sustainable and equitable allocation of water resources will necessitate a mix of increased investment in water infrastructure, more effective water management techniques, and enhanced international cooperation. The world cannot afford to wait any longer to act because the alternative is a future marked by violence and instability.

In an interview, a renowned Moroccan water expert who wishes to stay anonymous, stated: “Competition for water, which is essential for living, will only get worse in the coming years. In nations like Morocco, where water is already in short supply, the situation could result in civil discontent, economic instability, and even armed conflict. If numerous nations are dealing with comparable water issues and are unable to come to a peaceful conclusion through cooperation, this could grow into a worldwide conflict.”

The United Nations (UN) estimates that by 2025, almost half of the world’s population will reside in water-stressed areas and that this water shortage could trigger wars in places like the Middle East and North Africa. The UN further forecasts that a lack of water might lead to widespread migration, food shortages, and infections, aggravating the situation.

Additionally, the expert stated that “Morocco is strongly dependent on two industries: agriculture and tourism, both of which use a lot of water. The economy and stability of the nation may suffer if the water deficit persists, which would affect not only Morocco but the entire region.”

This indicates that the role that water plays in the yearly economic growth of Morocco is critical and determines the country’s growth as well as its appeal to new investments. Any unstable growth rate might cause chaos and, in severe scenarios, lead to turmoil. The claim that the expert made is backed by the percentage of economic growth Morocco witnessed last year. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reported that Morocco’s economic growth in 2022 reported 0.8%, while the IMF expected that the economic growth would fall from 3.4% to 2.9% only. This clearly shows that the water scarcity that Morocco suffered from last year has impacted the country’s growth greatly.

In conclusion, Morocco’s water crisis is a ticking time bomb that must be addressed immediately. However, it’s never too late to act on these issues. This cannot be achieved unless the Moroccan government, NGOs, and individuals come together to find long-term solutions to the world’s water dilemma. This is a call to every Moroccan who has a glimpse of patriotism to act fast and as fast as possible, for together, we can create a better tomorrow for our children and their children to come. As the saying goes “United we stand, divided we fall”.