HIBAPRESS – Ahmed Al-Musaed
Sugarcane agriculture in the Moulouya basin constitutes a fundamental pillar of the local and regional economy, where stakeholders in the sector are betting on strengthening this strategic chain. These efforts come in light of positive indicators that herald an improvement in climatic conditions and the growing involvement of farmers, which contributes to supporting food security and strengthening the dynamism of agricultural development in the region.
Sugar beet fields are distributed over vast areas that include the "Tarifa" plain and the "Kart" fields extending between the provinces of Nador and Berkane, where the total area is about 6,000 hectares, of which Nador province includes about 4,500 hectares, and Berkane province includes about 1,500 hectares.
The recent rainfall gave a strong boost to this season, as it contributed significantly to improving yields compared to the complete reliance on localized irrigation (Goutte-à-goutte). Also, the current situation of sugar beet growth is very good, which is optimistic despite the beginning, which was characterized by some drought.
On a technical level, the competent authorities rely on modern techniques to ensure the quality of production and rationalize water resources, the most prominent of which are: Detailed monitoring: tracking the stages of germination and growth and regular monitoring of agricultural pests; Modern technology: using satellite applications and drones for monitoring and treatment; Water management: tracking soil moisture through sensors to determine the actual needs for irrigation water; Agricultural research: working on introducing new varieties of seeds capable of adapting to the climate changes the region is witnessing.
Between the improvement in the climate and the intensification of technical follow-up, the prospects for sugar beet cultivation in the Moulouya basin seem promising, which enhances its position as an essential link in the regional agricultural fabric.
