SAFI DELEGATION
SECTOR DESCRIPTION
The operational area of the regional delegation of the ODCO in Safi, encompassing the provinces of SAFI, EL JADIDA, SIDI BENNOUR, and AL YOUSSOUFIA, has witnessed a consistent growth in the establishment of cooperatives in recent years, particularly since the implementation of Law 112-12 on cooperatives.
As of December 31, 2022, these four provinces had a total of 3,213 cooperatives with 35,490 contributing members. The geographic and cultural diversity of this area, spanning from fertile agricultural lands to expansive coastlines and featuring various tourist attractions, creates a conducive environment for the development of cooperatives in diverse sectors. Notably, agriculture has a prominent presence with 2,080 cooperatives, followed by artisanal activities with 554 cooperatives, and fishing with 268 cooperatives.
Furthermore, cooperatives led by women and young entrepreneurs have experienced significant growth, providing opportunities for these groups to integrate through income-generating activities within cooperatives. This economic dynamism positively contributes to the region by promoting employment and diversifying local economic activities.
ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS
The 5th edition of the National Caper Fair in Safi
Under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, May God Assist Him, and under the theme “Generation Green Strategy: Perspectives on the Development of the Caper Sector and its Role in Women and Youth Employment,” the Provincial Association of Caper Producers in Safi, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, and Forests, organized, in partnership with the Province of Safi, the Marrakech-Safi Chamber of Agriculture, the Provincial Council of Safi, and the Territorial Commune of Safi, the 5th edition of the National Caper Fair. This event took place from July 5th to July 9th, 2023, and witnessed the participation of nearly 140 agricultural cooperatives specializing in various local products, representing the 12 regions of the Kingdom.
Regional Handicrafts Fair of Safi
Under the theme “Authentic Handicrafts: Art and Creation,” the Marrakech-Safi Handicraft Chamber organized the Regional Handicrafts Fair in Safi from August 11 to 21, with the participation of over 48 artisan cooperatives representing various regions of the Kingdom.
This event aims to highlight the richness, uniqueness, and authenticity of Moroccan craftsmanship while providing artisans with an opportunity to showcase and sell their products.
PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS
The Economic Activity Inclusion Program
The regional delegation of the Office of Cooperation Development (ODCO) has played an active role in supporting and monitoring projects funded under the Economic Activity Insertion Program (PIAE) launched by the Mohamed IV Foundation for Solidarity.
The regional delegation’s commitment was evident through careful guidance of beneficiary cooperatives. Beyond the financial support provided by the Foundation, these cooperatives received personalized assistance and ongoing monitoring to ensure the success of their projects. Additionally, essential equipment was supplied to enhance their production capacity and improve the quality of their products.
This initiative had a significant impact on local cooperatives, offering them an opportunity to enhance their economic performance. It also contributed to job creation in these provinces, thus promoting the social and economic integration of community members. Furthermore, it strengthened solidarity and cohesion within these cooperatives by helping them become more self-reliant and financially prosperous.
In summary, the participation of the regional delegation of the ODCO in this program demonstrated a commitment to the economic and social development of the Sidi Bennour and El-Jadida provinces while promoting the sustainability of agricultural and artisanal cooperatives in the region.
DAR LIBTIKAR PROGRAM
The ODCO delegation actively participated in the DAR LIBTIKAR program, an initiative launched by the Abdelkader Bensaleh Foundation in Safi. This program aims to provide support for socially innovative projects. It is an incubation program specifically designed to assist social innovators, also known as social entrepreneurs, in partnership with local stakeholders in the areas where these projects are implemented.
Selected participants in this program had access to a comprehensive support process, which included training, coaching, mentoring, networking opportunities within their ecosystem, as well as financial support to help them succeed in their initiatives.
In summary, the ODCO delegation played a significant role in the DAR LIBTIKAR program, contributing to the development of socially innovative projects by providing valuable training, mentoring, and financial assistance to the selected social innovators.
"USAID GIVE DIRECTLY" PROGRAM
The USAID GIVE DIRECTLY program played an essential role in strengthening the cooperative fabric of the region, particularly in the provinces of Safi and Youssoufia. This innovative initiative had a significant impact by injecting funds directly into 80 local cooperatives. Each of these cooperatives received an amount of 90,000 dirhams, which had a catalytic effect on their development.
The substantial financial contribution of this program enabled the cooperatives to make essential investments, such as acquiring advanced equipment and purchasing high-quality raw materials. These investments not only enhanced their production capacity but also improved the quality of their products, thus enhancing their competitiveness in the local and regional markets.
Furthermore, the USAID GIVE DIRECTLY program had a positive social impact by creating employment opportunities within these cooperatives, thereby contributing to the improved living conditions of community members. By promoting local economic development, it also enhanced the cooperatives’ resilience in the face of economic challenges.
In summary, this program not only stimulated the economic growth of cooperatives in Safi and Youssoufia but also had a multiplier effect on the entire region, contributing to sustainable development and the empowerment of local communities.
« Motatawi3 » PROGRAM
This program, initiated by the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, primarily targets young people aged 18 to 22, offering them a unique opportunity for participation. It aims to engage over 5,000 young individuals from all regions of the Kingdom in a brand-new program structured into two distinct phases. The first phase focuses on training, while the second emphasizes volunteerism.
ANAPEC Safi
The collaboration between the ODCO delegation in Safi and the National Agency for the Promotion of Employment and Skills (ANAPEC) holds significant importance for the advancement of cooperatives in the Safi province. It encompasses various crucial elements aimed at fortifying the cooperative ecosystem and aiding local project initiators.
To begin with, this partnership entails the exchange of statistical data concerning cooperatives in the Safi province. These data play a pivotal role in evaluating the performance, needs, and opportunities of existing cooperatives.
Moreover, the collaboration actively promotes and urges project initiators to seek assistance from the agency for conducting feasibility studies for their projects. This is a vital step for emerging entrepreneurs, providing them with expert advice and essential resources to develop robust and viable projects. Feasibility study support includes market analysis, financial assessments, strategic recommendations, and various other elements contributing to the success of their initiatives.
In summary, the partnership between the ODCO delegation and ANAPEC establishes a favorable environment for the growth and sustainability of local cooperatives. It fosters transparency through the exchange of essential data and offers tangible support to entrepreneurs by guiding them in formulating robust projects. Consequently, this collaboration strengthens the cooperative sector in the Safi province, making a valuable contribution to the economic development of the region.
National Office of Agricultural Council
The partnership between the delegation of ODCO and the National Office of Agricultural Council (ONCA) holds great significance for the strengthening of agricultural cooperatives.
One of the fundamental components of this partnership involves the organization of awareness and training sessions aimed at benefiting agricultural cooperatives. These sessions aim to educate cooperative members on best practices, new regulations, financing opportunities, and other critical topics essential for the success of their activities. The training programs can encompass a broad spectrum of areas, including management, marketing, sustainable agricultural techniques, and compliance with quality standards.
Another vital aspect of this partnership is the provision of statistical data related to agricultural cooperatives. These data represent a valuable resource for the cooperatives, enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of their operational environment. This in-depth knowledge of their sector assists them in making informed decisions, identifying growth opportunities, and formulating effective strategies.
Thanks to this collaboration, agricultural cooperatives are better equipped to thrive and contribute to the sustainable agricultural development of their region.
Partnership with The Rural Affairs Division - the Ministry of the Interior
The partnership between the ODCO delegation and the Rural Affairs Division of the Ministry of the Interior holds significant importance in promoting rural development and the establishment of cooperatives within ethnic communities. This partnership is part of an effort aimed at enhancing the economic and social self-reliance of these specific communities.
One of the central initiatives within this collaboration is the formation of cooperatives comprising eligible members from ethnic communities. To support these new cooperatives in their endeavors, awareness meetings are organized, providing cooperative members with essential information regarding the establishment and management of their projects. These meetings address practical aspects such as planning, financing, administrative management, marketing, and more. The guidance and assistance provided during these meetings are intended to strengthen the skills of cooperative members and help them establish viable and sustainable projects.
Successful cooperative models
SAFI DELEGATION
Address : Lot Bouzoubea Avenue Ibn Zeydoun Etage:3 N°:6 Nouvelle ville B.P:366 SAFI
Phone : +(212) 5 24 62 10 95
E-Mail : odco.safi@odco.gov.ma
