The Water-Energy-Food Nexus in Morocco: Sectoral Interdependencies, Governance Challenges and Prospects for Sustainable Transition

Abstract

Morocco is increasingly under stress regarding its natural resources, “water, energy and food,” due to climate change and mainly sectoral governance. It discusses the interactions between these three sectors in the context of the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus approach, identifying structural issues, public initiatives, and future developments in favour of sustaining a transition path. Based on an international literature review, national statistical data (energy bill 2007-2024, energy balance, CESE prospective scenarios), and the WEF Nexus Index, 2023, the article reveals that Morocco has a large potential for renewable energy, has encouraging sectoral policies, but lacks a strong coordination between the sectors. The results reveal that the country's water, energy, and food security by 2050 is dependent on the implementation of integrated Nexus-based governance.