King launches construction works of USD 15 million dam center

King Mohammed VI of Morocco launched, on Monday, the construction works of a dam in the rural commune of Guigou (Boulemane province), for a total investment of USD 15 million.

With a capacity of 7 million cub. meters, the dam is destined to protect the commune of Guigou (19,000 inhabitants) from floods, irrigate agricultural lands downstream, and supply the region with drinking water.

The sovereign heard explanations on the preparation of the project for rural development in the Middle Atlas mountains, in the amount of approximately USD42 million.

The project provides for the establishment of hydro-agricultural facilities and achieving 114 - km of rural roads. Its goal is to enhance and diversify agricultural production in 6150 hectares planting fruit trees, livestock development, and encouraging rural women entrepreneurs and income-generating activities.

The project also aims at reducing poverty, improving the living conditions of the population, conservation of natural resources and rationalize their use for sustainable economic development.

On this occasion, the king laid the cornerstone for the construction of a social centre in a Boulemane province, Morocco property, as part of a large-scale anti-poverty program, the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH), launched in mid-2005 to fight poverty and social exclusion.

Built in 2400 square meters, the USD 150000 facility provides vocational training for women and young people and promoting income-generating activities.