Akhannouch defends infrastructure strategy as opposition calls for more social focus

Akhannouch detailed Morocco’s infrastructure achievements, noting significant strides in transportation, energy, and water management. Since 1999, the country’s highway network expanded from 80 kilometers to 1,800, while the rail network grew to 2,309 kilometers, including 200 kilometers of high-speed lines.

With nearly 58,000 kilometers of roads, Morocco ranks 16th globally for road density. The number of airports has increased from 15 to 25, and the number of ports has grown from 24 to 43. Additionally, the country boasts 154 large dams, up from 95 in 1999, with a combined capacity of over 20 billion cubic meters.

These developments, Akhannouch emphasized, have bolstered Morocco’s regional influence, securing the country’s role as the host of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup. I

nfrastructure upgrades are already underway in six cities selected as World Cup venues, including the construction of 45 stadiums and training sites, with the Hassan II stadium in Ben Slimane serving as a key element of the broader urban development strategy.

However, opposition parties seized the opportunity to critique the government’s progress, questioning the tangible benefits of these investments. The Socialist Union (USFP) opposition, through MPs Aouicha Zelfi and Saïd Baaziz, argued that infrastructure spending has not addressed critical issues like unemployment and regional disparities.

Despite the financial resources allocated, they said, the government has failed to create sufficient jobs or stimulate local growth. Zelfi highlighted the paradox that unemployment, particularly among youth, continues to rise despite increasing investment in infrastructure.

The opposition also criticized the government for not effectively mobilizing private sector investments, despite numerous finance laws aimed at stimulating business growth. They further emphasized the need for a balanced approach that prioritizes human development, including improvements in education, healthcare, and rural development.

Mohammed Ouzzine from the Popular Movement party stressed that Morocco’s true strength lies in its human capital, not just in physical infrastructure.

Yousef Bizid of the Progress and Socialism party echoed these concerns, criticizing the government’s focus on infrastructure while Morocco’s economic growth remains sluggish and poverty continues to affect millions. Bizid pointed to the rising unemployment rate among young people and the country’s high reliance on social aid.

In response, Akhannouch unveiled plans to eliminate slums by resettling 120,000 households by 2028. This initiative will be supported by a five-year program (2024-2028) offering financial assistance for families purchasing homes costing between 250,000 and 300,000 dirhams. Additionally, a renovation program will be launched for six World Cup cities, focusing on urban development and public facilities. The government is also prioritizing cultural heritage with restoration projects in cities like Agadir and Tangier.

Akhannouch concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to meeting its national development goals by 2030, with a focus on strengthening the social state, stimulating economic growth, and promoting investment.

Public investment in infrastructure has surged, increasing from 230 billion dirhams in 2021 to 335 billion in 2024, with projections of 340 billion dirhams for 2025.

_{Images are for reference only.Images and contents gathered automatic from google or 3rd party sources.All rights on the images and contents are with their legal original owners.}