Morocco Agency Creates 10,000 Jobs Supporting Local Farms

Morocco is turning its ancient argan groves and desert oases into thriving job centers, creating nearly 10,000 positions while protecting ecosystems that prevent desertification.

The National Agency for the Development of Oasis Zones and the Argan Tree (ANDZOA) invested $10.5 million to finance 976 projects across Morocco's arid regions. These initiatives created 5,525 seasonal jobs and 4,435 permanent positions, Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch announced to Parliament this week.

The program reaches far beyond simple job creation. It supports 427 cooperatives and economic groups, 469 small enterprises, and over 80 community associations working to preserve Morocco's fragile desert ecosystems.

Argan trees and oasis palm groves serve as natural barriers against the spread of deserts. These ecosystems also house unique biodiversity found nowhere else, making their protection critical for both local communities and the environment.

The government showcased cooperative success at two major fairs last year. The International Date Fair in Erfoud featured 132 stands from local cooperatives out of 220 total exhibitors, giving small producers direct access to buyers and partnership opportunities.

The International Argan Fair brought together 100 cooperatives to share traditional knowledge and sustainable practices. Morocco timed the December event to coincide with hosting the African Cup of Nations, using the argan tree as a symbol of African resilience and cultural connection.

The Ripple Effect

ANDZOA's broader strategy extends to 2030 with ambitious goals for ecosystem protection and economic growth. The agency has overseen $16.72 billion in public investments across its working zones since 2012, reaching communities in Agadir, Taroudant, Essaouira, and other argan-growing regions.

The plan targets expanding date palm cultivation across 48,000 hectares of existing groves while creating new plantations. Production goals aim to more than double output from 90,000 tons to 185,000 tons by 2030.

Local residents gain improved quality of life through diversified economic opportunities tied to sustainable agriculture. International collaborators work alongside community partners to ensure programs meet real needs on the ground.

Morocco is proving that protecting the environment and creating jobs can go hand in hand, one argan tree and palm grove at a time.