Speaking at a communication meeting bringing together key stakeholders and investors in the province, Jamai emphasized that the objective is to make Ifrane an example of ecological excellence, particularly by securing an international certification as a “Clean City.”
To achieve this ambitious vision, he stressed the need to stimulate investments in green sectors, such as eco-friendly vehicles and taxis, announcing the intention to make Ifrane’s public transportation 100% clean.
“This is a comprehensive strategy focused on environmental protection and respect for nature,” he explained, highlighting the firm commitment to positioning Ifrane as a global reference in sustainable development.
He further noted that this communication meeting aimed to explore the promising opportunities offered by the region and discuss ways to enhance its attractiveness in order to attract more high-value-added investments.
Jamai recalled that this initiative aligns with the directives of HM King Mohammed VI, who places investment at the heart of economic and social development.
He continued by stating that the Fez-Meknes region aspires to an economic recovery based on a sustainable and inclusive development model, drawing strength from its qualified human capital, a heritage spanning over 12 centuries, a strategic geographical position, and unique innovation resources.
He also highlighted the key role of Al Akhawayn University, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, in the development of the province.
To realize the province’s development vision, Jamai insisted on the necessity of transforming Ifrane into a global model of technological innovation and green growth, similar to certain developed countries.
In this regard, he underscored the crucial role that Al Akhawayn University can play in this transformation through its local and international partnerships, particularly by creating business incubators and laboratories to encourage young entrepreneurs to establish sustainability-focused tech startups.
Regarding infrastructure, Jamai announced that 5.5 billion dirhams had been allocated between 2015 and 2023 for infrastructure projects, social sectors, and human development.
Concerning private investments, the Wali specified that since 2022, the Unified Regional Investment Committee (CRUI) has approved projects worth 1.1 billion dirhams, noting that the last quarter of 2024 saw an acceleration in investment projects, with 55% of approved projects amounting to 258 million dirhams—representing 91% of the total approved investment projects for 2024.
For his part, the Governor of the province of Ifrane, Driss Misbah, emphasized the importance of rigor and seriousness in investment approaches, learning from successful experiences and overcoming encountered challenges.
He highlighted the exceptional ecological character of the province, with its RAMSAR-listed wetlands, vast forests rich in biodiversity (116,000 hectares), and its rich cultural and artisanal heritage.
The Governor also pointed out that Ifrane is a prime destination for eco-tourism, sports activities, and medical tourism, with an accommodation capacity of 3,818 beds and 5,680 camping spots.
He further emphasized the region’s agricultural character, with 72,000 hectares of cultivated land, mainly dedicated to apple and cherry orchards, making Ifrane the region’s leading producer of these fruits.
Misbah mentioned the Ifrane National Park, which covers 85% of the province’s area and is set to undergo rehabilitation with a budget of 734 million dirhams. He also recalled that Ifrane was ranked the second-cleanest city in the world in 2016 and among the most beautiful cities in Africa in 2023.
Meanwhile, the President of the Fès-Meknès region, Abdelouahed Al Ansari, stressed the importance of this meeting, which is the eighth in a series of consultations initiated by the Wilaya since last December.
He detailed the numerous projects undertaken or launched by the Regional Council in the province, particularly in road infrastructure, access to drinking water, health, sports, and culture.
“While significant efforts have been made, we remain aware of the persistent challenges facing the province,” he admitted, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to continuing development and designing new projects that meet the population’s needs.
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