Taza - Morocco
Agroforestry
In the province of Taza, Reforest'Action is partnering with the High Atlas Foundation to involve women's communities in the development of agroforestry.
2023 - 2024
A financer
In Morocco, climate change and the hazards it causes, such as droughts, considerably weaken the agroecosystems in the north-western part of the country. In this region known for its arboriculture, but dominated by cereal farming, agricultural practices also contribute to deteriorating soils and polluting ecosystems. Families of small-scale producers are particularly vulnerable on the social and economic level. Indeed, illiteracy and the lack of access to communication technologies contribute to the vulnerability of the inhabitants of this mountainous area. Today, the major challenge is to restore Taza's agroecosystems, in order to mitigate the effects of climate change and empower farmers.
The planting of fruit trees will help revitalize the agroecosystems and develop fruit production by planting native species like carob, almond, olive, cherry, fig and pomegranate. The plants and seeds are purchased from local producers and then cultivated with organic products in nurseries located in the region. The planting sessions are carried out collectively by the inhabitants, with the support of HAF. The fruits produced through the project will eventually be certified organic through a partnership between HAF and the U.S. humanitarian agency USAID. The creation of local cooperatives within the framework of the project will add value to the produced fruits and facilitate their sale on the markets. The transition to fruit production, which is more lucrative and perfectly adapted to the Moroccan climate, will allow families to become more independent. Women in particular, who are often dependent on their husbands' resources, will take care of the trees and the harvest. This is an opportunity to develop a specific know-how and to gain financial independence.
The High Atlas Foundation is a Moroccan association and an American NGO, founded in 2000 by former Peace Corps volunteers committed to sustainable development. HAF supports Moroccan communities in implementing development initiatives that promote organic agriculture, women's autonomy, education, youth integration, and population health. Since 2011, the association has acquired the status of consultant in the United Nations Economic and Social Council. HAF has planted nearly 4 million fruit trees in 39 provinces of Morocco, benefiting 15,000 producer families.
