Khouribga highlights cooperatives as drivers of inclusive growth
Cooperatives play a central role in promoting inclusive and sustainable development in Khouribga, according to participants at a communication meeting held on Friday at the provincial prefecture headquarters to mark the International Day of Cooperatives.
The event focused on the theme of social and solidarity economy and aimed to showcase the contribution of cooperatives to wealth creation and employment opportunities. Organizers said the initiative aligns with Royal Orientations encouraging the development of the social economy and reflects calls for an economic model that combines efficiency with solidarity.
Speaking at the opening session, the Secretary General of the Khouribga provincial prefecture emphasized the strategic importance of cooperatives as a key development tool capable of supporting economic, social, and environmental sustainability across the province.
He outlined four priorities for strengthening the sector, including raising awareness of the role of cooperatives, creating a favorable environment for cooperative entrepreneurship, establishing an appropriate legislative framework, and encouraging leadership among younger generations to increase their participation in the sector.
Referring to the National Initiative for Human Development, particularly its third phase program dedicated to improving income and economic inclusion for young people, the official said the initiative directly targets cooperatives. He noted that the participatory approach adopted under the program contributed to the emergence of nearly 250 cooperatives across the province.
Souad Ilham, Head of the Social Action Division at the prefecture, presented an overview of the National Initiative for Human Development’s interventions between 2019 and 2025. She reported that 251 cooperatives received support through financial contributions exceeding MAD 17.65 million, while total investments reached nearly MAD 29.26 million.
According to the figures presented, the number of supported cooperatives increased from 20 in 2019 to a peak of 57 in 2022 before reaching 17 cooperatives in 2025. The program contributed to the creation of more than 1,200 stable jobs benefiting 1,295 people.
Ilham said the celebration reflects the growing importance of cooperatives as a mechanism for local development and economic inclusion. She highlighted the continued support provided through financing and assistance for income generating projects and stressed the importance of maintaining efforts to strengthen the sector.
Taoufik Riad, Regional Delegate of the Office for the Development of Cooperation in Béni Mellal-Khénifra, said the commemoration recognizes the significant role played by cooperatives in improving the socio economic conditions of project holders.
He added that cooperatives contribute to wealth creation while supporting territorial marketing and the promotion of local products.
The meeting brought together representatives of government services, partner institutions, civil society organizations, and cooperative stakeholders. Participants attended presentations highlighting efforts in guidance, support, and promotion of cooperative initiatives aimed at advancing sustainable territorial and human development.
