ANDZOA Expands Efforts to Boost Infrastructure and Empower Communities in Tinghir

Rabat – Tinghir Province is gaining new momentum in its development journey as the National Agency for the Development of Oasis Zones and the Argan Tree (ANDZOA) introduces fresh initiatives targeting economic empowerment and improved infrastructure.

These projects, announced during the 59th edition of the International Rose Festival in Kelaat M’Gouna, mark another milestone in the agency’s commitment to fostering sustainable development in the region.

With an eye on reducing rural isolation and fostering entrepreneurship, ANDZOA has signed a series of agreements in collaboration with key partners, signaling its commitment to sustainable growth in the region.

A region with untapped potential

Tinghir is a strategic focus for ANDZOA’s work, thanks to its untapped human, natural, and cultural resources.

Despite its promising potential, the region continues to face challenges in socioeconomic development.

Since 2014, ANDZOA has invested over MAD 240.3 million ($23.4 million) in more than 115 projects, benefitting 321,000 people. These efforts reflect Tinghir’s importance in national development plans.

Building on these achievements, ANDZOA has announced two new agreements designed to address some of the province’s most pressing challenges, from water scarcity to rural employment and education.

Boosting infrastructure and connectivity

One of the new agreements centers on improving connectivity in Tinghir’s rural communities by constructing bridges and crossings in isolated areas.

This initiative, which involves multiple stakeholders, including the Tinghir Provincial Authority, local councils, and water basin agencies, seeks to enhance infrastructure and living conditions for residents.

The project’s total cost is estimated at MAD 28 million ($2.7 million), with ANDZOA contributing MAD 10 million ($970,000).

This infrastructure project not only addresses isolation but also sets the stage for broader economic and social integration across the region.

Supporting rural women and youth

In addition to infrastructure, ANDZOA has taken a bold step toward empowering local women and youth by supporting entrepreneurship.

The agency has partnered with the Tinghir Territorial Council and the National Agency for Employment Promotion (ANAPEC) to establish a business incubator in the province.

With a budget of MAD 2.4 million ($234,000), including MAD 1 million ($97,000) from ANDZOA, the incubator aims to provide hands-on support to young entrepreneurs, helping them bring their ideas to life and navigate the challenges of starting a business.

This initiative represents a critical step in fostering innovation and local economic growth, ensuring that Tinghir’s youth and women have the tools and resources they need to succeed in a competitive economy.

These projects are part of ANDZOA’s broader vision for sustainable development in Tinghir. The agency has already contributed to initiatives addressing water scarcity and student housing in the region, further noting its holistic approach to development.