On June 26 and 27, 2024, Rabat hosted a workshop organized by the FAO Representation in Morocco, dedicated to adapting a national program for the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) in the Kingdom of Morocco. This workshop brought together more than 60 participants, including government representatives, agricultural experts, researchers, and local stakeholders, all driven by a common goal: to understand and adapt GIAHS to the Moroccan context.

The Kingdom of Morocco, with its diverse landscapes and unique agro-ecosystems, presents itself as a promised land for GIAHS. Already holding three designated sites, the country has immense potential with hundreds of sites awaiting recognition. However, rapid urbanization and climate change threaten these ecological treasures. To counter these challenges, the Moroccan government has implemented an ambitious national program aiming to integrate GIAHS into its agricultural strategy, with the support of the FAO. It is this ambitious vision that inspired the organization of this workshop.

From the opening, Ms. Nahid Bezzaz, Head of Partnerships Service Project Engineering Division Directorate of Rural Development and Mountain Areas Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, Water, and Forests, highlighted the importance and urgency of preserving these traditional and ingenious agricultural systems. The FAO Representation in Morocco and the Department of Agriculture shared poignant testimonies on existing GIAHS sites, revealing their invaluable benefits and precious lessons learned from their management.

The exchange of experiences on GIAHS governance was one of the highlights of this workshop. The Tunisian model, with its effective coordination between the government, local communities, and international partners, inspired the participants. The Valencian experience, emphasizing local governance and community involvement, also offered enriching perspectives. These exchanges demonstrated that collaboration and community engagement are essential for the success of GIAHS in Morocco.

Discussions also underscored the crucial need to strengthen local capacities and improve the management of natural resources, particularly water. In a context of climate change and rural exodus, supporting rural agricultural communities is imperative.

Another crucial aspect addressed was the promotion of products from GIAHS systems. By highlighting their exceptional quality, Morocco can not only improve the profitability of local producers but also strengthen its position in international markets. The discussions shed light on innovative marketing strategies, product certification, and the promotion of quality labels.

These initiatives aim to differentiate GIAHS products and attract increasingly environmentally conscious and quality-driven consumers. This represents a golden opportunity for Moroccan farmers, offering them not only economic prospects but also international recognition for their sustainable practices.

The workshop also emphasized the essential role of research and innovation in the development of GIAHS. Moroccan research institutions, in partnership with international experts, have a key role to play. Close collaboration between researchers, farmers, and policymakers is indispensable for creating an environment conducive to innovation and the preservation of Morocco's genetic resources. This synergy is crucial for the development and sustainability of GIAHS, ensuring that innovative agricultural solutions address local challenges while aligning with global best practices.

The workshop concluded on an optimistic note with the presentation of an ambitious roadmap for the development of GIAHS in Morocco. The regions of Marrakech Safi, Oriental, Beni Mellal Khenifra, and Tanger El Hoceima committed to promoting the GIAHS concept at the national level. This event strengthened the understanding and appropriation of GIAHS, illustrating Morocco's ambition to become a regional leader in this field. With the Directorate of Rural Space and Mountain Area Development, Morocco is well-positioned to move towards a sustainable future where agricultural heritage is not only preserved but also valued for future generations.

In conclusion, the Rabat workshop was a resounding success, laying the foundations for a promising future for GIAHS in Morocco. The rich and varied discussions enabled the tracing of a clear roadmap for integrating GIAHS into the national agricultural strategy, while considering local specificities and global challenges. Morocco, with its ambitious vision and commitment to sustainability, is on the way to becoming a regional model in the preservation and promotion of agricultural heritage.

The next steps will consist of implementing the workshop's recommendations, strengthening the capacities of local actors, and mobilizing the necessary resources to support the development of GIAHS. By closely collaborating with its national and international partners, Morocco can not only preserve its rich agricultural heritage but also make it a lever for economic and social development, while contributing to global sustainable development goals.