This article was automatically translated from HIBAPRESS, the Arabic version:
Hibapress-Rabat
As part of Strategy Forests of Morocco 2020-2030initiated by His Majesty King Mohammed VI On February 13, 2020, Mr. Abderrahim HoumyManaging Director of the National Agency for Water and Forests (ANEF), made a working visit to 21 February 2025 in Oujda. This visit was marked by the Official launch of the landscaping and recreational project of the Sidi Maafa urban forest.
During a meeting chaired by the wali of the Oriental region, governor of the prefecture of Oujda Angad, Mr. Khatib El Hebil and in which the president of the Council of the Oriental region took part as well as the elected officials and the territorial officials concerned, the ANEF presented to the institutional partners the Landscaping and recreational project of the Sidi Maafa urban forest. This project aims to reconcile the preservation of forest ecosystems and the growing needs of inhabitants in terms of green spaces and leisure.
A weakened ecosystem requiring urgent action
Stretching 1650 hectaresthe forest complex of Sidi Maafa represents a Exceptional natural heritageplaying an essential role in the ecological balance and the improvement of the living environment of the inhabitants of Oujda. However, the effects of climate changeespecially the prolongedled to a massive decline in the stands of Aleppo Pinsmaking them vulnerable to pathogens and altering the landscape and silvicultural quality of the site.
Faced with this alarming situation, An ambitious emergency program was set up by the ANEF in order to stop the degradation of the forest and restore its ecological and recreational role.
A structured intervention program over three years (2024-2026)
This program revolves around Three major axes ::
Fight against decline and preservation of forest cover
Sanitary cuts on 620 hectares To eliminate affected trees and stop the propagation of pathogens. Implementation of a phytosanitary monitoring system To monitor the state of health of forest stands.
Reforestation and diversification of essences adapted to the local climate
Reforestation on 720 hectares with more species Resilients and adapted under arid conditions: Thuya Carob tree False pepper Atlas pistachio Filao Innovative planting techniques : introduction of trees to high roduse of optimized watering systems To improve the resumption of plants.
Landscaping and eco-tourism valuation
Creation of relaxation spaces, walking trails and leisure areas. Development of ecological infrastructure to offer citizens a space for hike, sport and leisure in the great outdoors. Encouragement of public-private partnerships For sustainable management and economic valuation of the site.
A project led by collective mobilization
At the end of this day, a field visit allowed managers and partners to see the first improvements made and to kick off the planting campaign.
This catering program will not be able to succeed without the active commitment of local actors, civil society and visitorswho are called to play a key role in the Preservation and sustainable valuation of this emblematic space.
With this initiative, the ANEF reaffirms its commitment to a Sustainable and forest managementat the service of biodiversity and the well-being of citizens.
