Morocco has supported 54 women’s cooperatives and helped create 83 women-led businesses in Azilal province between 2019 and 2026. The initiatives aim to strengthen rural women’s economic independence and support local development.
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Local officials shared these figures during a recent meeting and training session in Azilal. The event focused on ways to improve rural women’s social and economic opportunities under the theme “Supporting Rural Women: A Driver of Inclusion and Empowerment.”
Representatives of public institutions and civil society organisations attended the meeting. They discussed programmes that help women earn an income, access services and take part in community life.
More Than MAD 18 Million in Support for Women’s Businesses
Naima Achak, a representative of the Social Action Division in Azilal province, outlined support provided through the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH).
Between 2019 and 2026, the initiative funded 54 women’s cooperatives involving around 200 women. The total funding exceeded MAD 10.5 million.
In addition, the programme helped establish 83 women-led businesses. These projects received around MAD 8 million in financial support.
The figures highlight the role of funding and practical assistance in helping rural women develop income-generating activities.
Schooling and Healthcare for Rural Girls and Mothers
The initiative also supports education and healthcare in rural communities. Issam Ben Assou, head of the province’s Social Action Division, outlined several programmes for children, mothers and families.
To help girls continue their education, the province has established and equipped 34 student accommodation centres across rural communes. The initiative also supports school transport to reduce school dropouts and help rural girls stay in education.
Meanwhile, maternal and child health programmes aim to improve access to care and reduce maternal and infant deaths. As part of these efforts, the initiative has supported and equipped 12 maternity homes.
The province has also built a network of 170 community mediators. They help guide pregnant women and connect them with relevant health services.
Support for Women in Difficult Situations
The National Initiative for Human Development also works with vulnerable women. Two centres provide support to women facing difficult circumstances, assisting around 200 women each year.
The centres operate in partnership with the National Mutual Aid agency and local associations. Their work aims to help women access support and improve their social and economic circumstances.
Hiba Ait Tabiya, a representative of the provincial delegation of National Mutual Aid, also highlighted rural women’s contribution to local development. She noted their role in agriculture, crafts and preserving traditional skills.
She also presented services offered by the agency’s training centres. These institutions support vulnerable people and help protect women who experience violence. They also work to strengthen women’s social and economic inclusion.
The meeting highlighted how economic support, education, healthcare and social services can work together to improve opportunities for rural women in Azilal.
- Source: MAP
