Addressing Urbanisation of Agricultural Lands: Insights from AMC-GOF Webinar

On January 16, 2025, the Moroccan Association of Researchers in Geomatics and Land Governance (AMC-GOF) hosted an insightful webinar on the pressing issue of agricultural land urbanization in Morocco. Supported by the Network of Excellence on Land Governance in Africa (NELGA), the event explored regulatory frameworks and challenges tied to sustainable land governance.

Khalid El Hadri, Head of the Studies Department at the Urban Agency of Kénitra-Sidi Kacem-Sidi Slimane, highlighted critical gaps in the current legislative framework. His analysis revealed the urgent need to strengthen regulations that address unchecked urban development encroaching on agricultural lands.

Prof. Abdelwahed El Idrissi, Director of the Doctoral Studies Center at INAU, presented a detailed analysis of urbanization trends in Morocco, supported by compelling data. His insights focused on the extent of agricultural land loss and the necessity of aligning urban development with long-term sustainability goals.

The discussions underscored the importance of integrating sustainable land governance policies with urban planning to strike a balance between development and the preservation of valuable agricultural resources.

NELGA’s collaboration in supporting this event reflects its ongoing efforts to foster research, dialogue, and practical solutions to Africa’s land governance challenges.