Context
In Morocco, economic growth has so far mainly focused on key economic centres. Consequently, some provinces are left out of the economic development, due to the distance to these centres and the limited local markets. Local processing and improved marketing of agricultural and artisanal products, for example, offer high potential for economic growth and higher incomes in these areas. The same holds true for improving advisory services. Yet most of the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in these rural provinces are barely able to compete. This potential thus remains unused for creating income and jobs.
Objective
The economic performance of MSMEs in selected provinces has increased. Incomes and the employment situation have improved.
Approach
The project is part of the special initiative Stability and Development in the MENA Region (SI MENA), which contributes to economic growth that creates jobs.
To this end, the project implements measures in eight remote provinces of the South-East of Morocco (Midelt, Ouarzazate, Tata, Tinghir, Zagora, Errachidia, Azilal and Al Haouz) to promote local economic growth. The project aims to improve the economic performance of around 9,450 enterprises by the end of its term in 2022. In so doing, they are to increase their sales, get access to new markets or develop new products. Local MSMEs are supported with improving their ability to identify and exploit existing economic potential.
In collaboration with its partners in the provinces, the project establishes so called economic promotion councils. These multi-stakeholder platforms promote dialogue between stakeholders of the public and private sector, as well as the civil society. Together, they develop coordinated strategies for local economic and employment promotion. In addition, the project supports selected value chains with high development and impact potential. By offering advisory services and training, and by organizing marketing events, the project contributes to improving the quality and, in particular the marketing of products in these value chains. For example, this includes improving performance and market access as well as increasing profitability in the date, carpet and rosewater value chains. This will enable new promising markets to be entered.
In close cooperation with the Moroccan Ministry of the Interior, the project is preparing to extend and expand its approaches. The project compiles experiences and best practices in a digital toolbox, which will allow the project approaches to be used in additional regions and provinces.
The project implementation is supported by the consulting firms AFC Consulting Group and Como Consult.
Impact
- The project has already improved the economic performance of 4,380 companies.
- In 3,000 companies, the employment situation has improved. As a result, incomes have risen, new jobs have been created and/or working conditions have been improved.