HIBAPRESS – Mohamed Zerriouh
The Ouled Zerrouk region, belonging to the Melqa Ouidane commune in the province of Taourirt, possesses significant natural and agricultural potential that makes it a promising area for achieving rural development and boosting agricultural production. The region is characterized by soil suitable for agricultural activities and a climate that aids in crop diversification, in addition to its proximity to the Al-Massira Dam, which is a fundamental component of the region's water system, and its importance is expected to be reflected in improving the economic and social conditions of the local population.
Despite these capabilities, transforming natural potential into tangible development opportunities remains contingent upon adopting a clear strategic vision that places the small farmer at the heart of local policies. This necessitates the development of agricultural infrastructure, improvement of production and marketing methods, and provision of the necessary support and follow-up for farmers, enabling them to overcome the constraints facing their activities and enhancing the agricultural sector's contribution to wealth creation and local economic stimulation.
In this context, the importance of encouraging investments related to livestock farming and fruit tree planting, along with the establishment of income-generating projects that respond to the region's specificities and the needs of its inhabitants, becomes apparent. These initiatives would contribute to diversifying income sources, creating job opportunities, reducing economic fragility in some rural areas, and encouraging youth to engage in productive projects that ensure the sustainability of agricultural activity and the valorization of local resources.
In parallel with the project to raise the dam of Al-Massira, the necessity of achieving a balance between the execution of major water projects and the preservation of the rights of the population whose lands and agricultural activities may be affected by them arises. This endeavor highlights the importance of adopting a fair approach that ensures the addressing of the situations of those affected in accordance with applicable laws and procedures, while ensuring the provision of due compensation and the search for suitable economic and agricultural alternatives, to prevent the damage of families' livelihoods and maintain their social stability.
The development challenge in the Ouled Zerrouk region of Beni Oukil is not limited to investing its natural potential, but extends to establishing a development model that ensures the local population benefits from the fruits of executed projects and investments. True development is measured not only by the scale of projects and infrastructure but also by its ability to improve living conditions, protect the land, support the small farmer, and achieve spatial justice. Hence, the need for an integrated strategic vision that makes agriculture a driver of sustainable development and places the rural population at the core of priorities.
