Rabat – A high-level conference today in Rabat convened speakers and experts to discuss efforts seeking to strengthen national initiatives for preserving marine ecosystems.
Zakia Driouch, Secretary of State to the Minister of Agriculture, presided over the conference held under the theme “Marine Protected Areas and the Blue Economy: Issues and Challenges.”
The event is in collaboration with Global Fishing Watch, a statement from the Secretariat of State in charge of Maritime Fisheries said.
The conference brought together speakers from different administrations and representatives from the maritime fisheries sector as well as experts and researchers to raise awareness among stakeholders about the importance of marine protected areas.
These areas serve as tools for preserving marine biodiversity and protecting fisheries resources to support the development of a sustainable blue economy.
The event is part of Morocco’s commitment to protecting marine spaces and reinforcing ocean governance to develop a responsible blue economy, the statement added.
Speakers emphasized the central role of maritime professionals and NGOs in the success of marine protected areas and served as a platform for discussing the main challenges related to the implementation of marine protected areas.
In 2025, Morocco established eight new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) along its Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding marine biodiversity and ecosystems.
The announcement was made by Leila Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, during the opening of the 8th edition of the Forum de la Mer in El Jadida.
Speaking at the forum, Benali reaffirmed Morocco’s engagement under the new global biodiversity framework, with an ambitious national goal of designating 10% of the country’s maritime territory as protected by 2030.
“Protecting 30% of marine areas could increase fish biomass by 500%, offering greater security to the fishing industry while significantly enhancing added value for local communities,” Benali explained, emphasizing the long-term benefits of sustainable ocean management.
