The American Chamber of Commerce in Morocco is a non-profit, non government organization which represents American and Moroccan businesses and individuals.
The American Chamber of Commerce in Morocco is a non-profit, non government organization which represents American and Moroccan businesses and individuals.
American Companies Response
3M is addressing the COVID-19 pandemic from all angles and across all relevant stakeholders
https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-us/coronavirus/
In this crisis, 3M is experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand for N95 respirators, and demand will outpace supply for the foreseeable future. As we urgently work to expand our own production, we are also working with governments and others to prioritize, triage and redirect supplies to serve the most critical needs and areas. 3M is also partnering with other companies on a range of innovative solutions to protect healthcare workers and first responders.
ABB is supporting global efforts to limit COVID-19
https://new.abb.com/covid-19
For operations deemed critical by local governments, ABB is continuing to produce products and supply services for essential and critical sectors, including utilities, hospitals and water treatment plants. Measures and processes are in place to protect those working in these operations and to ensure that they adhere strictly to “social distancing” and practice good hygiene. While our top priority is health and safety, we want to assure our customers, partners and suppliers that we are doing everything in our power to support them during these uncertain times.
Abbott: Our Work On COVID-19 Testing
https://www.abbott.com/coronavirus.html
Under FDA emergency use authorization (EUA), we are distributing five COVID-19 tests. For molecular testing, our rapid, point-of-care COVID-19 tests for our ID NOW system, our m2000 RealTime molecular laboratory test as well as our Alinity m platform. For antibody testing, our blood test that runs on the ARCHITECT i1000SR and i2000SR laboratory instruments as well as the Alinity i.
ADM Donations to Provide Food Insecurity Relief, First Responder Support in COVID-19 Response
https://www.adm.com/news/news-releases/adm-donations-to-provide-food-insecurity-relief-first-responder-support-in-covid-19-response-1
ADM (NYSE: ADM) announced today an additional $800,000 in donations to organizations focused on addressing needs during COVID-19, including food assistance, hunger relief, and local support to hospitals and first responders.
ADM Partners with Médecins Sans Frontières to Help Support the Fight Against Covid-19
https://www.adm.com/news/news-releases/adm-partners
ADM (NYSE: ADM) has announced a partnership with Médecins Sans Frontières (also known as doctors without borders) to support emergency response to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic across Europe and further afield. The partnership sees ADM providing a USD 50’000 donation through ADM Cares, the company’s social-investment program and is part of a wider commitment to help various organizations including the WHO and other regional organizations involved in the ongoing crisis.
AIG Travel: COVID-19 FAQ
https://www.travelguard.com/travel-news/coronavirus-advisory
AIG Travel is closely monitoring the Coronavirus (COVID-19), and its potential impact on travel. While we will continue to provide periodic updates regarding travel safety, travelers should consult the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) websites for the most up-to-date information on the Coronavirus outbreak.
Baker & McKenzie: Beyond COVID-19
https://www.bakermckenzie.com/en/insight/topics/beyond-covid-19
Despite the unpredictability of COVID-19, Baker McKenzie’s ‘Resilience, Recovery & Renewal’ model is a three-phase approach designed to provide your business with relevant resources and guidance as you work through the initial crisis management phase of COVID-19 and look to the future. Whether the focus is immediate crisis management, counter-cyclical activities or longer-term business transformation activities, we will help you navigate through these critical challenges and prepare for a changing world.
Boeing: Multilayered approaches key to enhancing safety and reducing illness transmission
https://boeing.mediaroom.com/2020-05-14-Boeing-Names-Delaney-to-Lead-Confident-Travel-Initiative
Boeing’s effort will build on the industry’s enhanced safety approaches – including enhanced cleaning, temperature checks and the use of face coverings – and promote the proven systems already in place to help maintain cabin cleanliness. One such system is the air filtration system present on all Boeing airplanes. The air filtration system incorporates High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters similar to those used in hospitals and industrial clean rooms. HEPA filters are 99.9+% effective at removing particulates such as viruses, bacteria and fungi before air is recirculated back to the cabin.
Cisco System Inc.: COVID-19 Response</strong
https://www.cisco.com/c/m/en_us/covid19.html?dtid=odicdc000509
Our first priority has been to help our customers and partners around the world to keep their teams safe. One way to do this, according to medical professionals, has been to encourage social distancing. Like many of our customers, we have implemented work from home policies to limit our employees’ exposure, but it’s been crucial to do this without compromising the ability to remain connected, productive and work securely. To get customers up and running quickly, we have been providing free offerings and cloud-based services across Webex, security solutions and more that have kept newly remote workforces running productively.
Coca-Cola: Response to Covid-19
https://www.coca-cola.ca/news/how-coca-cola-in-canada-is-responding-to-covid-19
We have – and always will – put the health, safety and security of people first. Our approach is grounded in our company’s purpose, which ensures that we continuously strive to make a difference for people in our communities and in our workplaces. We are constantly monitoring the evolving situation and adapting our efforts and responses.
CWT: COVID-19 Response
https://www.mycwt.com/coronavirus-travel-information/
Our hearts and best wishes for a speedy return to healthy normality, go out to everyone impacted by the virus and our absolute priority at this time is the safety and wellbeing of employees and travelers. Based on our experience managing travel during global health problems over the decades, our robust and rigorously tested global, regional, national and localized business continuity processes and plans have been implemented (along with our specialist task force) since early February.
Deloitte: Combating COVID-19 with resilience
https://www2.deloitte.com/ca/en/pages/about-deloitte/topics/combating-covid-19-with-resilience.html
In the face of certain challenges and a still-uncertain set of risks, business leaders are rightly concerned about how their companies will be affected and what they have to do next. In the heat of the moment, there are a number of lessons from history that can be applied now. We have pooled the insights of Deloitte leaders in affected areas around the world to provide practical insights for chief executives and their leadership teams in taking appropriate action.
Diebold Nixdorf: Response to COVID-19
https://www.dieboldnixdorf.com/en-us/about-us/news-and-events/covid19 Diebold Nixdorf s.a.
We are maintaining daily contact with our key supplier partners via our established supply chain response team and taking immediate technical, logistical and other actions to mitigate or eliminate any disruptions. We are using expedited freight and shipments as needed to fulfill our commitments. Our global service team is leveraging multiple redundancies in their global supply chain and global supply stocks. In some regions, while there are inevitable delays due to mandatory transportation restrictions, our teams are being resourceful in delivering service or service-related components and parts for our equipment.
We continue to take guidance from relevant authorities, such as the WHO and CDC, to ensure that we take all possible steps to protect the health and safety of customers and team members around the world.
DuPont’s Response to COVID-19 Prevention and Control
https://www.dupont.com/news/dupont-response-novel-coronavirus-prevention-and-control.html?src=HP.html
To meet the growing need for critical protection and supplies in the fight against COVID-19, we’re increasing the capacity of Tyvek® protective fabric and working with our partners to get it to the front lines quickly.
EY: COVID-19 Enterprise Resilience Framework
https://www.ey.com/en_gl/covid-19
Our framework identifies nine areas businesses can address to build a structured and comprehensive approach to crisis management and business resilience.
General Electric’s Response to COVID-19
https://www.ge.com/about-us/covid-19
Given the magnitude of the COVID-19 outbreak and the impact it is having on nearly every aspect of our employees’ lives, we set up a global Employee Relief Fund as a new public charity. Our goal is to help alleviate some of the burden on our employees and their families as they face unprecedented challenges and financial hardship as a result of a major disaster like this pandemic.
Greif: Coronavirus (Covid-19) Customer Update
https://smpages.greif.com/Coronavirus_Customer_Update Greif
The global COVID-19 pandemic remains an evolving situation and we continue to monitor the latest updates. Our global and regional pandemic task forces are meeting multiple times weekly to ensure we safeguard the health of our colleagues and the continuity of supply and service to our valued customers.
HP 3D printing in support of COVID-19 containment efforts
https://enable.hp.com/us-en-3dprint-COVID-19-containment-applications/
HP has been working closely with leading researchers at Harvard University and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center to assist with gathering test data and refining 3D printed nasopharyngeal test swab designs, materials, and printing capacity.
Hyatt: COVID-19: Travel Update
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/info/coronavirus-statement?icamp=psr_cvstatement_jan2020_alertbanner_en
We understand that you may be experiencing stress given the rapidly changing information on travel restrictions and cancelled or postponed public events. We want you to know that we are monitoring the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation closely, keeping those who are affected in our hearts, and are listening carefully to the questions and concerns we receive from guests such as you.
Hilton: Statement on Coronavirus
https://www.hilton.com/en/corporate/coronavirus/
Current Health and Hygiene Standards. We take great pride in maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Given the effects of COVID-19, we have taken additional measures in our hotels today, developed in consultation with global and local public health authorities (including the WHO and CDC), to make our cleaning and hygiene protocols even more rigorous
IBM’s Response to COVID-19
https://www.ibm.com/impact/covid-19/
To meet the global challenge of COVID-19, the world must come together. IBM has resources to share — like supercomputing power, virus tracking and an AI assistant to answer citizens’ questions.
International Paper COVID-19 Pandemic Response
http://www.internationalpaper.com/newsroom/covid-19
Protecting the health and safety of our employees and contractors is our most important responsibility. We will continue to operate our mills and converting plants while practicing personal hygiene, social distancing, site cleaning and other measures recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as well as other national Health Authorities in the countries where we operate.
Janssen Vaccine Technologies
https://www.janssen.com/infectious-diseases-and-vaccines/vaccine-technologies
Our cutting-edge proprietary technologies are the driving force behind our strong research and vaccine development pipeline, helping the global health community better prepare for and combat life-threatening infectious disease outbreaks.
Microsoft: Responding to COVID-19 Together
https://news.microsoft.com/covid-19-response/?icid=mscom_marcom
As the world responds to the outbreak of COVID-19, our thoughts are with the people affected and the medical professionals working around the clock to help those most in need. At Microsoft, we’re working to do our part by ensuring the safety of our employees, striving to protect the health and well-being of the communities in which we operate, and providing technology, tips and resources to our customers to help them do their best work while remote.
Mondelez International: Managing the Coronavirus Outbreak
https://www.mondelezinternational.com/coronavirus
As concerns around the spread of the coronavirus continue to increase, it is our top priority to protect the health and safety of our employees, partners and customers in close collaboration with global institutions and local health authorities. In parallel, we are working to ensure business continuity and continue to serve our customers worldwide.
MSD’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
http://www.msd.com/about/featured-stories/how-we-are-responding-to-the-global-pandemic-COVID-19.html
As a company dedicated to saving and improving lives, MSD recognizes that we have a special responsibility to help. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, MSD is focused on protecting the safety of its employees and their families, ensuring that our supply of medicines and vaccines reaches our patients and customers, contributing our scientific expertise to the development of antiviral and vaccine approaches, and supporting health care providers and our communities. We thank the many health care providers and volunteers, including our own employees, who are doing so much to help affected patients and communities.
Oracle Invites HR leaders to Discuss Changing Roles, New Challenges Due to COVID-19 https://blogs.oracle.com/oraclehcm/oracle-invites-hr-leaders-to-discuss-changing-roles-new-challenges-due-to-covid-19
As the world continues to face increasing concerns about COVID-19, our
HR customers are facing big challenges and taking on many new roles. For example, HR leaders in the distribution industry need to hire and onboard new workers at a record pace, while those in retail are having to lay off or furlough large groups of employees. And HR leaders across all industries are turning to the Oracle customer community for advice about how to best manage their workforce and keep their employees safe.
Pfizer and BioNTech Collaborate to Develop Potential COVID-19 Vaccine
https://www.pfizer.fr/pfizer-et-biontech-ont-administre-des-doses-de-vaccin-aux-premiers-participants
The companies Pfizer Inc. (NYSE: PFE) and BioNTech SE (Nasdaq: BNTX) announced today the start of phase 1/2 of the BNT162 vaccine program for the prevention of COVID-19, with the inclusion and vaccination of the first participants. This clinical trial, which is part of a global development program, was initiated in Germany where the first cohort of participants was vaccinated last week.
The phase 1/2 trial is designed to determine the safety, immunogenicity and optimal dose of four messenger RNA vaccine candidates evaluated in a single, continuous clinical trial. In the United States, phase 1 of the phase 1/2 clinical trial, during which a gradual increase in dose will be conducted, will include up to 360 healthy subjects divided into two cohorts according to their age (18-55 years and 65-85 years).
Polydesign Systems
https://www.linkedin.com/posts
Congratulations to Polydesign Systems for producing 530 protective visors with which we are closing the coverage of the Tangier Tetouan Al-Hoceima region (including rural area)! Let’s unite, we will get there together!
Procter and Gamble distributes hygiene products and donates cash
https://us.pg.com/covid19/
With guidance from medical professionals, we’re constantly evaluating and updating the robust measures already in place to help our people who are making, packing and shipping P&G products stay safe at work. This includes temperature scans, shift rotations, queueing avoidance, and physical distancing where possible. We’re performing comprehensive, methodical cleaning of all production areas, including regular sanitization and surface disinfection that exceeds the most rigorous health authority standards.
PwC: Insights on the COVID-19 Crisis
https://www.pwc.fr/fr/expertises/gestion-des-risques/gestion-de-crise/covid-19/pwc-en-direct-eclairages-sur-la-crise-covid-19.html
The current COVID-19 crisis is forcing your company to take exceptional measures.
Faced with human, social and economic impacts, your organizations have had and must still evolve. In this context where adaptation is becoming the norm, we have decided to offer you weekly meetings on the main subjects around the management of this crisis.
UPS: Responding to the Coronavirus
https://www.ups.com/ca/en/about/news/important-updates.page?
Careful guidance and information being provided to our staff across the globe regarding the best ways to prevent the spread of infection, based on guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) and, Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC).
Visa Foundation Announces Grantees to Support COVID-19 Recovery in U.S. and Canada
https://www.visa.ca/en_CA/about-visa/newsroom/press-releases/visa-foundation-covid-19-grants.html
The Visa Foundation today announced its approval of $2 million in COVID-19 relief grants to organizations in the U.S. and Canada, including Feeding America, Food Banks Canada, American Red Cross, Direct Relief and Children’s Aid, that are supporting the frontline response to the COVID-19 pandemic and providing critical poverty alleviation services for vulnerable households.
Western Union: Our Response to COVID-19
https://www.westernunion.com/blog/our-response-to-covid-19/
With the ongoing spread of COVID-19 and the speed at which things are changing around us, we remain committed to doing everything we can to support the health of our employees and Agents, ensure that we can meet our customers’ need to send money for critical support to loved ones, and support communities impacted by the spread of the virus globally.
Moroccan Companies’ Responses
Moroccan Startup Accelerator HSEVEN Launched 3 Programs for African Entrepreneurs
https://thefintechtimes.com/startup-accelerator-hseven-launched-3-programs-for-african-entrepreneurs/?utm_source
Moroccan startup accelerator HSEVEN, the largest startup accelerator in Africa, has launched three incubation and acceleration programs to help African entrepreneurs buildhigh-impact startups.
Programs “Rise-Up,” “Re-Start,” and “Disrupt” aim to accelerate the transformation of the African economy amid the fourth technological and industrial revolution and the COVID-19 pandemic. The three programs target startups with two to five founders that are still in an early stage of conception and aim to impact Africa through innovative services, products, and business models.
Nextronic Produces First 100% Moroccan Infrared Thermometer
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/307190/moroccan-startup-produces-first-100-moroccan-infrared-thermometer/
Moroccan tech startup Nextronic has designed and manufactured the first 100% Moroccan infrared thermometer, as part of the national efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Engineers from Nextronic presented their invention on Saturday, June 27, to Morocco’sMinister of Industry, Moulay Hafid Elalamy, who expressed his pride in the product and his department’s disposition to support the project. According to the Ministry, the thermometers respect international norms and are available at competitive prices.
Damandis launches ‘Lehri.ma’ an Express Grocery Delivery Platform
https://lehri.ma/
Damandis is among the leaders in the distribution of mass consumption products including tea, pasta, flour, rice and canned goods, as well as non-food such as hygiene and cosmetics. The launch of lehri.ma has registered over 2,000 users and has served to promote the different brands distributed by Damandis.
MAScIR Morocco develops Real Time RT-PCR COVID-19 Test Kit
https://www.mascir.com/
The MAScIR Foundation, a Moroccan research and development institution created in 2007, has developed an RT-PCR COVID-19 diagnostic test in its medical biology laboratories. This test kit has been subjected to a series of validation processes at national and international Laboratories and has obtained the validation of the Royal Armed Forces and the Royal Gendarmerie as well as of the Institut Pasteur of Paris, placing it thus at the same level as tests used internationally.
RAM Reportedly Faces ‘Inevitable’ Prospect of Halving Fleet and Staff
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305327/ram-reportedly-faces-inevitable-prospect-of-halving-fleet-and-staff/
Morocco’snational airline, Royal Air Maroc (RAM), is waiting for the government to unveil its amendments to the country’s finance law before elaborating its own recovery plan, a ministerial source working on RAM’s recovery plan
To help the national airline overcome the crisis, the source stated that the government must provide financial assistance of up to MAD 2 billion ($200 million). The official added that whatever the amount allocated, the state will condition the financial assistance on halving both the airplane fleet and the overall size of the company.
Yassir launches a Free Teleconsultation Platform to serve Communities during COVID-19“
https://yassir.ma/teleconsultation/
Yassir, a technology company specializing in innovative mobile solutions, launched, in collaboration with a community of volunteer doctors, a free teleconsultation platform enabling citizens to remotely interact with health professionals. The goal of this action is to make medical advice more accessible during this crisis and to continue to contribute to Morocco’s efforts to combat the spread of covid-19. This new platform puts doctors in contact with patients who want to make sure they are in good health. This initiative will help those who seek medical advice and enable them to get what they need without having to leave their homes, thus reducing the risk of contamination.
“Ana Maak”: 7000 families supported in less than 20 days
https://lobservateur.info/societe/ana-maak-7000-familles-soutenues-en-moins-de-20-jours/
In this period of confinement, there are many day laborers, traders, workers in the informal sector, men and women, who no longer have any income because they can no longer have any gainful activity. Formed of volunteers committed in favor of solidarity, the “Ana Maak” collective offers donors the possibility of buying Sodexo vouchers in the form of a booklet comprising 25 tickets of 20 dirhams each. The granting of these notebooks to needy families is done by relays who are designated by the local authorities in Casablanca, Rabat, and Meknes.
AAC Plan for Online Learning
http://www.aac.ac.ma/userfiles/225/My%20Files/NEWS/AAC%20Plan%20for%20Online%20Learning.pdf?id=2525
The Moroccan Ministry has closed schools indefinitely, as of Monday March 16th. We have a plan for online learning, which is outlined by division below. We ask ALL parents to PLEASE support us during this time to ensure that learning continues. As a Project-based Learning school, we are equipped to assign work and to follow the curriculum from a distance, but we need parents to help us monitor student learning. Teachers will be on campus from 9 am to 3 pm to help students online.
Agentis to Build a $50 million Hospital in Ivory Coast
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2019/08/279744/morocco-agentis-hospital-ivory-coast/
Agentis, who specializes in the distribution of medical, paramedical, and surgical equipment and the fit-out of medical centers, launched construction works on the hospital center on Saturday, August 3. The hospital center is in Adzope, 100 kilometers north of Abidjan. Once built, it will cover 18,737 square meters, on a 10 hectare property, reports Morocco’s official news channel Maghreb Press Agency (MAP). The center will have a 200 bed capacity, and will provide a wide range of services including surgery, pediatric services, obstetrics. The hospital will include three operating blocks, x-ray rooms, ten dialysis centers, a laboratory, and emergency services.
Al Mada Donates 1 Million Medical Masks to Hospital Staff
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/301782/moroccan-foundation-donates-1-million-medical-masks-to-hospital-staff/
Private investment fund Al Mada’s social solidarity foundation announced a decision to offer one million FFP2 masks to healthcare workers engaged in the nationwide campaign to combat COVID-19. The foundation began distributing the masks to the health ministry on May 5, for further distribution to Moroccan hospitals. The masks have a minimum of 94% filtration and maximum of 8% leakage to the inside, according to Medical Expo E-mag.
Asmex and Apex-CI: Moroccan, Ivorian exporters pool efforts to set up an African external trade association
https://northafricapost.com/41218-moroccan-ivorian-exporters-pool-efforts-to-set-up-an-african-external-trade-association.html
The Moroccan and Ivorian exporters’ associations, Asmex and Apex-CI, have decided to pool efforts to set up an African external trade association, Aujourd’hui Le Maroc reports.
The Moroccan Association of Exporters (Asmex) is part of this dynamic and is mobilizing to create spaces for exchange and partnership aimed at developing and strengthening trade and partnership between Moroccan economic operators and their African counterparts.
Attijariwafa bank supports Moroccan Residents stranded Abroad
https://www.attijariwafabank.com/sites/default/files/mailing_dotations_touristiques_vf.pdf
Attijariwafa bank is part of the support measures initiated by the Moroccan government for managing the crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic and supporting its clients, Moroccan residents who are stranded currently abroad by the granting of an exceptional tourist endowment whose equivalent value is capped at 20,000 dirhams per adult natural person. This exceptional endowment is delivered under form of loading the Rihla card or loading the foreign currency account.
BCP Group Announces Measures for Companies Affected by COVID-19
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/03/298118/moroccos-bcp-group-announces-measures-for-companies-affected-by-covid-19/
Banking institutions have been launching measures in line with the nationwide campaign to reduce economic pressure on citizens and companies affected by the COVID-19 crisis. Morocco’s Banque Populaire (BCP) implemented measures to enable its customers and companies to deal with their cash flow problems, the institution said in a press release. The measures include the postponement of fixed maturities without penalty clauses due to late delivery until June 30, and an additional cash line in the form of a fine credit maturing on December 31, 2020.
CGEM: Solidaritech
https://coronavirus.cgem.ma/solidaritech/
The CGEM, through its Startups and Digital Transformation Commission, in partnership with the Moroccan Start-up Econsystem Catalysts Association (MSEC), mobilizes all Moroccan startups to support the momentum of national solidarity in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover these startups who have implemented innovative and agile solutions to problems linked to the current context, in particular in the fields of health, education, awareness-raising or financing, for the benefit of citizens, businesses and public institutions.
Cluster Solaire: Innovation and agility are key in a new reality
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303645/moroccos-renewable-energy-sector-maintains-momentum-amid-crisis/
The Moroccan nonprofit association aims to strengthen clean energy and green technology by offering support for startups and project leaders. During the lockdown, Solar Cluster has been providing distance training to help entrepreneurs develop their skills. The non-profit emphasizes that innovation and agility are crucial for success.
CMS: COVID-19
https://cms.law/fr/fra/offres/covid-19-coronavirus
The crisis linked to the Covid-19 (Coronavirus) pandemic is of unprecedented magnitude and affects all aspects of our lives and activities. The legal questions raised must be resolved quickly and the solutions adopted must provide individuals and businesses with the necessary security. Our firm mobilizes all the skills of its professionals to provide the best solutions to all these questions.
Credit Agricole Increases Rural Presence, Doubles Mobile Fleet
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302950/moroccos-credit-agricole-increases-rural-presence-doubles-mobile-fleet/
The Credit Agricole du Maroc (CAM) Group announced its decision to double its mobile branches to consolidate its proximity policy, consolidating its role as a “benchmark partner in the rural world” and strengthening its support for the Moroccan economy during the COVID-19 crisis.
Diversey Maroc: COVID-19
https://diversey.com/en/solutions/infection-prevention/outbreak-prevention/sars-cov-2-coronavirus-and-covid-19-disease
An outbreak of respiratory illness (COVID-19 Disease) caused by a novel (new) coronavirus (named ‘SARS-CoV-2’) was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. To date, thousands of ‘SARS-CoV-2’ (Coronavirus) infections have been reported in China and in a growing number of international locations. Most of the ‘SARS-CoV-2’ (Coronavirus) infections have been associated with travel from Wuhan and appear to be spreading from person-to-person with close contact.
FRSDISI Introduces 100% Moroccan-Made AI Respirator
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302053/moroccan-foundation-introduces-100-moroccan-made-ai-respirator/
The Foundation for Development Research and Innovation in Science and Engineering (FRSDISI) introduced a 100% Moroccan artificially intelligent respirator in Casablanca today, May 8. The foundation seeks to make the medical tool, Cosumar Intelligent Respiratory System (SIRCOS), available at health centers treating people suffering from respiratory problems.
HPS: Coronavirus response in Morocco
https://youtu.be/4bAPOeknY9A / https://www.abf-berkeleyhaas.com/abf2020#abf2020online
HPS, an innovative payment solutions and services company at the forefront of the international payment industry. They describe how they are responding to the coronavirus in Morocco with mobile payments.
IDF: Covid-19
https://www.idf-dutyfree.com/covid-19/
Today’s situation is such that, as other Corporations in our sector, we are obliged to set up drastic measures in order to protect you and face this challenge. As a consequence, starting March 18th 2020, we have decided to temporarily close all our stores until further notice. We are certain that, together, we will overcome this global health crisis and we will very soon have the pleasure to welcome you again in our shops.
ILCS: Support measures for ILCS students
http://www.ilcs.ac.ma/covid-19-mesures-daccompagnement-des-etudiants-de-ilcs/
ILCS is very committed to limiting the spread of the virus according to the official measures that ILCS salutes. In order to ensure the continuity of teaching activities for students, ILCS continues to use the work platforms that it has initiated since 2016. Continuation of training is ensured.
Ingénierie Vs Covid-19 Maroc: “We share our experience with other countries on the African continent”
https://aujourdhui.ma/high-tech/khalid-ezzemani-nous-partageons-notre-experience-avec-dautres-pays-du-continent-africain
The collective launched the implementation of several projects throughout the Kingdom on three stages. The first is sourcing and networking. This consisted in the collection of know-how and means of design and manufacture and their networking for the decentralization of production and prototyping. Next, Haking made in Morocco. This consisted of reverse engineering and development of solutions around challenges and projects. And finally, manufacturing consisted of joining forces with manufacturers for massive production as well as sharing experiences for the construction of special machines.
Jacobs: A Message from Steve Demetriou, Jacobs Chair and CEO
https://www.jacobs.com/newsroom/news/message-steve-demetriou-jacobs-chair-and-ceo
This is a very unsettling time in the world. Each of us – along with our families, friends, colleagues and communities – are watching the development of the Coronavirus pandemic and grappling with feelings of concern and uncertainty. And while this is uncharted territory for all of us, the safety and well-being of our people and communities must remain our top priority.
Johnson & Johnson Announces a Lead Vaccine Candidate for COVID-19; Landmark New Partnership with U.S. Department of Health & Human Services; and Commitment to Supply One Billion Vaccines Worldwide for Emergency Pandemic Use
https://www.janssen.com/emea/sites/www_janssen_com_emea/files/johnson_and_johnson_announces_a_lead_vaccine_candidate_for_covid-19_landmark.pdf
Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) (the Company) today announced the selection of a lead COVID-19 vaccine candidate from constructs it has been working on since January 2020; the significant expansion of the existing partnership between the Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA); and the rapid scaling of the Company’s manufacturing capacity with the goal of providing global supply of more than one billion doses of a vaccine.
Kettani Law Firm Launches newsletter
http://www.kettlaw.com/
Kettani Law Firm launches “KLF Newsletter series” to communicate with its clients and partners. This newsletter provides a summary of economic, fiscal, legal, banking and financial measures adopted by the Moroccan government during the pandemic.
Laprophan takes part in strengthening the molecular diagnostic unit of COVID-19 in the university hospital center Ibn Rochd in Casablanca
http://www.laprophan.com/en/laprophan-takes-part-in-strengthening-the-molecular-diagnostic-unit-of-covid-19-in-the-university-hospital-center-ibn-rochd-in-casablanca/
Guided by our sense of solidarity and collective effort, we, LAPROPHAN Laboratories, are joining forces with the Ministry of Health in its actions and measures to fight COVID-19 to preserve public health. In this regard, equipment was made available to the laboratories of the university hospital center Ibn Rochd in Casablanca to strengthen the molecular diagnostic unit of COVID-19.
Lear Corporation: Response to COVID-19
https://www.facebook.com/LearCorporation/posts/3645810112112582
Employees at our trim plant in Tangier, Morocco, are making protective masks to help protect against #COVID19. We appreciate and applaud our teams around the world helping to fight this global pandemic. #onelear
Locafinance notice: a fleet of vehicles available to healthcare staff
https://www.challenge.ma/avis-locafinance-une-flotte-de-vehicules-a-disposition-du-personnel-soignant-136410/
The Avis Locafinance Group has decided to support the Ministry of Health and hospital staff involved in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, the car rental specialist has graciously put passenger vehicles at the service of the nursing staff of the Ibn Rochd University Hospital in Casablanca, the latter having no means of transport allowing him to move more easily. Avis Locafinance also made available to the Ministry of Health and its delegations in the various cities of the Kingdom several vehicles.
Macdonald’s COVID-19 Security Measures
https://www.mcdonalds.ma/procedures-hygiene-et-securite-alimentaire/
In accordance with the directives issued by the Ministry of the Interior, McDonald’s Maroc completely closes its sales channels from today, at 6 p.m. nationwide. As a result, driving service (McDrive ™) and home delivery service (McDelivery ™) will also be suspended until a later date. We would like to thank the authorities concerned and the entire medical profession for their mobilization, their commitment and their constant efforts.
MAROCLEAR announces a contribution of 5 million dirhams to the Solidarity Fund dedicated to the management of the coronavirus pandemic
https://www.maroclear.com/fr/node/5244
Attached to its duty as a corporate citizen, MAROCLEAR wishes to contribute to the momentum of national mobilization.In this context, the Central Depositary makes a contribution of 5 million dirhams to the Solidarity Fund created by His Majesty King Mohammed VI to stem the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic and to mitigate its socio-economic impacts.
Mazars is Following and Monitoring the Situation Closely https://www.mazars.ma/Accueil/Actualites/Actualites/Suivi-de-la-situation-du-Coronavirus
Mazars is closely monitoring the development of the Coronavirus situation in Morocco and around the world. As a company, we are committed to acting responsibly. We have taken the necessary measures to prevent contagion and protect our employees and the people with whom we interact. We continue to operate and meet the needs of our customers while remaining focused and ready to adjust and strengthen our guidelines as necessary. The safety of our teams and that of our customers is a top priority.
NAS Donates Rapid Testing Kits to Assist the Ugandan Ministry of Health
https://www.nas.aero/fr/newsupdates.aspx
National Aviation Services (NAS), a leading global aviation services provider, recently donated Rapid Diagnostic Testing (RDT) kits to the Covid-19 National Task Force formed by the Ugandan Ministry of Health. These IgG/IgM Antibody RDT kits will complement the ongoing serosurvey and other targeted tests to estimate the proportion of the population that have developed immunity against Covid-19. The test gives results within 10-15 minutes either with serum or whole blood specimens.
Novatis Group provides assistance in kind and in cash
https://www.leconomiste.com/article/1059101-novatis-group-apporte-son-aide-en-nature-et-en-numeraire
Aid in cash and in kind for Novatis. The industrial group and its president, Abdallah Badaa, announce having released a financial contribution of 10 million DH to the special fund for the management of the coronavirus pandemic. In addition, the company, which has several production units in Berrechid (handkerchiefs, toilet paper, baby and adult diapers, medical textile articles) reserves part of its productions at the disposal of the authorities and medical personnel, to avoid disruption of market supply.
ONEE: Measures for the benefit of its customers
http://www.one.ma/FR/pages/actua.asp?esp=2&id1=8&id2=70&t2=1&id=2997
In addition to the system set up by ONEE to support its customers during the state of health emergency and spare them travel, the Office announces new measures to deal with this unprecedented situation. ONEE therefore decided to postpone, during this period, the reading of meter indexes and the distribution of invoices. New solutions have thus been adopted to enable interactions with customers from a distance via telephony and the Internet. The objective being to avoid as much as possible the displacement of the clients and that of the personnel of the Office.
Orange Maroc: Coronavirus Information Note
https://www.orange.ma/information
Orange Maroc teams have always been, are and will remain mobilized to provide you with the best services on a daily basis. At Orange, we make sure that the functions vital to service continuity will remain operational whatever the circumstances. Fixed and mobile telecommunications networks are crucial in times of crisis. We are taking the necessary measures to best cope with the increase in traffic linked to teleworking and the closure of educational establishments.
Pharma 5’s Official Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/pharma-5-officiel
As part of ensuring continuity of work, Pharma 5 has taken precautions and measures to protect employees by reorganizing the work and applying special health rules.
Philip Morris International confirms commitment to its employees during pandemic
https://www.pmi.com/media-center/news/philip-morris-international-commits-to-employees-during-pandemic
Philip Morris International Inc. (PMI) (NYSE: PM) today announced the establishment of a set of important guiding principles that outline the company’s strong commitment to its employees’ job security and peace of mind, throughout the global pandemic period. These principles encompass three key areas: employment stability, financial stability and special recognition awards.
PortNet: DH 10 million for the Coronavirus Management Fund
https://www.portnet.ma/fr/portnet-10-millions-dh-au-profit-du-fonds-de-gestion-du-coronavirus
PortNet SA and its collaborators contribute to the Coronavirus Pandemic Management Fund.
The National Single Window for Foreign Trade has decided to make a contribution to the Coronavirus pandemic management fund, by donating 10 million dirhams and a month’s salary for senior executives. It should be recalled that since the beginning of this health crisis, PortNet SA has been pro-actively mobilized to contribute, in community intelligence, to limiting the impact on its customers and partners.
Psyphone: Psychological risks of confinement
htts://psyphone.ma/les-risques-psychologiques-du-confinement/
During this period of confinement, we must first realize that this is an unprecedented situation, which will mobilize our resources because we must draw from the bottom of ourselves to be able to live in the best conditions. Of course, we risk losing our bearings and this can in turn induce stress. The key word would be to “adapt”, with as much realism and flexibility as possible.
SAS: COVID-19 Hub
https://www.sas.com/fr_ma/covid19.html
SAS is more than ever convinced that knowledge is a driving force for action. As a leader in analytics, we use our most advanced technologies in innovative ways to help our customers fight the coronavirus epidemic. As we all continue to navigate the uncertainty of this epidemic, SAS is committed to supporting your business as a valued partner and ensuring the continuity of its services.
SGA’s Crucial Role during Lockdown
http://www.aui.ma/en/media-room/news/al-akhawayn-news/3731-sga-s-crucial-role-during-lockdown.html
Since the start of the CoVID-19 lockdown measures in Morocco, Al Akhawayn Student Government Association (SGA) worked closely with the university’s administration to help students in these challenging times and to adapt the procedures and policies given the situation. To assist students with their questions and needs, the SGA established the COVID-19 Help Desk on their website. This tool enabled students to ask questions, raise their concerns, and give feedback about new policies.
Société Générale: COVID-19
https://www.sgmaroc.com/lp/info/
Due to the exceptional circumstances associated with Covid-19, one of Societe Generale’s priorities is to allow you to continue to manage your accounts while limiting travel as much as possible.
Soft Tech to Grant 10 Million Protective Masks to Moroccan Government
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/03/297293/soft-tech-to-grant-10-million-protective-masks-to-moroccan-government/
Soft Tech, a subsidiary of SoftGroup, has announced the production of 10 million protective masks for the benefit of Morocco’s Ministry of the Interior and other public institutions. In a statement released on Monday, the company said that it will manufacture the masks in record time and distribute them for free amid a worldwide shortage. The group has mobilized 300 employees to work day and night on the production of the masks.
Tractafric Equipment: COVID-19
https://www.tractafrictae.com/en/page/root/news/1170/covid-19.html?Isometric=6cd815915ec349f8a7327b985d3a4b1f#.Xr23vhNKj_Q
Tractafric Equipment supports all the people involved in this fight which mobilizes us all. In order to protect our employees, our families, our customers, our partners, all our relationships, strict and adapted measures have been taken in each of our branches, respecting the respective recommendations of local governments and institutions. Take the appropriate and necessary measures to secure our sedentary and itinerant employees. Secure the contact with our customers in agencies by respecting the rules of distances and by distributing hydroalcoholic gels.
UH2C: Filing of a software patent relating to the management and monitoring of an epidemic
https://www.medias24.com/depot-d-un-brevet-de-logiciels-relatifs-a-la-gestion-et-au-suivi-d-une-epidemie-10373.html
“After a week of long endurance work, the software prototypes are finally finalized and available to monitor the spread of the virus and generate the necessary alerts and recommendations,” said the team director, Professor Azedine Boulmakoul, cited Saturday May 16 in a press release from the Hassan II University of Casablanca (UH2C). The innovative aspects of this system concern the integration of digital solutions to efficiently conduct urgent operations for the management of the viral pandemic , explains the same source.
UM6P and IPM Sign Agreement to Boost Moroccan Capacity for Virology Research With New Laboratory
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302023/morocco-to-boost-capacity-for-virology-research-with-new-laboratory/
The Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) and the Pasteur Institute of Morocco (IPM) signed an agreement to improve Morocco’s capacity for virology research in order to better enable the country to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. With the support of the OCP Group and the OCP Foundation, UM6P and the IPM are set to combine their resources to contribute to the development of Morocco’s virology research capacity.
Yara Confeccion manufactures and distributes masks for free
https://maroc-diplomatique.net/coronavirus-une-entreprise-de-textile-a-tanger-fabrique-et-distribue-des-masques-gratuitement/
The textile company “ Yara Confeccion “, based in Tangier, has embarked on a citizens’ initiative to manufacture and distribute free masks to people who have to work during the state of health emergency. Company executives take care to distribute these masks, manufactured locally while respecting the necessary sterilization measures, in the streets and main avenues of the city of Tangier, more particularly for the benefit of national security agents and professionals operating in the transport and retail sectors that are in direct contact with citizens.
Yassir: Follow the evolution of Coronavirus in the Maghreb with this informative tool by Yassir
http://www.covid19-maghreb.live/
YASSIR implements a simple tool to learn about the evolution of COVID-19 in the Maghreb. In an effort to aid COVID-19 relief efforts, YASSIR has also carried out a disinfection operation for the benefit of around 250 taxis in Casablanca. The action was not limited to taxi drivers affiliated with YASSIR, it was an open invitation to all taxi drivers regardless of their affiliation.
NGOs Response
1. Local Initiatives
INSAF: The Moroccan NGO helping society’s most vulnerable survive the coronavirus lockdown
https://english.alaraby.co.uk/english/indepth/2020/5/15/insaf-helping-moroccos-most-vulnerable-survive-the-coronavirus-lockdown
As the public health crisis hits, dozens of solidarity initiatives targeting vulnerable communities have emerged in Morocco amid the coronavirus outbreak. Among them, the National Institute for Solidarity with Women in Distress (INSAF) has stepped up its humanitarian operations to respond to the new reality.
As the first distress calls came in two weeks after the announcement of the health emergency, INSAF began to initiate solidarity campaigns and mobilise food donations for the most vulnerable parts of the population.
INSAF Launches Campaign to Assist Sub-Saharan Migrants
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302497/covid-19-moroccan-ngo-launches-campaign-to-assist-sub-saharan-migrants/
The National Institute for Solidarity with Women in Distress (INSAF) announced the launch of an operation to assist sub-Saharan migrants in Morocco during the COVID-19 pandemic. The campaign will also include the distribution of aid, including food supplies, over a period of ten days.
MRA: Mobilising Rights Associates (MRA) in the press on COVID-19 and violence against women in Morocco.
https://moroccanladies.com/breaking-news/covid-19-advocacy-rescue-women-victims-violence
27 Moroccan associations have signed a plea for the authorities to actively combat violence against women during this delicate period of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this letter, the group highlights the impact of confinement on violence against women and provides concrete responses to eradicate the upsurge of this scourge.
MRA Creates Lifeline for Domestic Abuse Victims in Lockdown
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/04/298324/moroccan-ngo-creates-lifeline-for-domestic-abuse-victims-in-lockdown/
International non-profit Mobilising for Rights Associations (MRA) announced today, April 1, its initiative to assemble online emergency resources for the victims of domestic abuse in light of the coronavirus-induced lockdown.
The website page contains emergency contact numbers made available by associations in various regions throughout Morocco. The initiative seeks to provide counseling and other relevant services to victims of domestic abuse during the lockdown.
FLDFF sounds the alarm about situation of female workers in lockdown
https://northafricapost.com/40205-coronavirus-womens-rights-ngo-sounds-the-alarm-about-situation-of-female-workers.html (FLDFF)
The Federation of the Democratic League for Women’s Rights (FLDDF) addressed a letter to the Minister of Employment, Mohamed Amekraz, calling the government to take the necessary measures to protect the health and safety of women in their workplace, mainly those working in shops, markets and supermarkets, factories, agriculture farms and animal husbandry.
The FLDDF denounced in its letter the working conditions in some companies and factories that it described as “inhuman”, and urged the government to strengthen its control operations, and to incite employers to comply with the health precautionary measures in force, including those imposed during the current coronavirus health crisis.
Al Joud and Al HoudaOffer 1,000 Phones to Help Students Access Remote Education
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/04/298402/moroccan-ngos-offer-1000-phones-to-help-students-access-remote-education/
Moroccan social organizations Al Houda and Joud Foundation launched a campaign to distribute 1,000 mobile phones to students affected by the COVID-19 crisis during the country’s school suspension, to enable them to access remote learning materials.
The organizations distributed the phones to students living in Casablanca’s El Fida-Derb Sultan district, and will carry out similar campaigns in other Casablanca neighborhoods, according to Moroccan television channel 2M.
2. Global Initiatives
World Bank Loans Morocco $500 Million to Advance Digitalization Reforms
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/306638/world-bank-loans-morocco-500-million-to-advance-digitalization-reforms/
The World Bank announced Monday it approved a $500 million loan to Morocco to support the North African country’s plan to boost digital inclusion reforms.
A statement from the bank announced the decision of the institutions’ Board of Executive Directors to approve the loan on June 22. The loan is part of the Financial and Digital Inclusion Development Policy Financing Project (DPF) to support mechanisms to promote digital transformation in Morocco.
ERDB, European Union invest €61.3 million in green projects across Egypt and Morocco
https://africabusinesscommunities.com/agribusiness/news/erdb-european-union-invest-%E2%82%AC61.3-million-in-green-projects-across-egypt-and-morocco/
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU) are stepping up their support for green investments and climate resilience in Egypt, Morocco and the countries of the Eastern Partnership..
The EU is providing a total of €61.3 million in grants to support three EBRD programmes helping businesses invest in energy efficiency, cut their carbon footprint, introduce innovative green technologies, support the circular economy and improve legal frameworks for energy and resource efficiency investments.
UNWTO, EBRD to Support Morocco’s Tourism Recovery
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/307118/unwto-ebrd-to-jointly-support-moroccos-tourism-recovery/
The United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have pledged to support the recovery of the tourism sector across the economies where the Bank invests, including Morocco.
Morocco: In the midst of coronavirus, USAID/Morocco supports distance learning for deaf and hard of hearing students
https://www.africa-newsroom.com/press/coronavirus-morocco-in-the-midst-of-coronavirus-usaidmorocco-supports-distance-learning-for-deaf-and-hard-of-hearing-students?lang=en
In March 2020, Morocco’s Ministry of National Education, Vocational Training and Scientific Research (MOE) shifted to digital learning to ensure continuity of learning for its seven million students in response to the coronavirus outbreak. A variety of distance learning resources were made available for the students. The Ministry quickly multiplied its efforts to make distance learning accessible to all.
Morocco: Delivering the basics – Enhancing food security and social assistance in northern Morocco
https://www.africa-newsroom.com/press/coronavirus-morocco-delivering-the-basics-enhancing-food-security-and-social-assistance-in-northern-morocco?lang=en
To address one of the most important underlying needs, USAID’s FORSATY program is supporting the basic needs of food-insecure families. Food basket distribution began in June 2020, and as many as 20,000 baskets, providing food supplies to families in need, will be provided through July 2020.
The program will also broaden access to lifelines and connectivity with the outside world through prepaid phone and Internet cards. Thousands of $5 and $10 prepaid cards are being distributed to families that depend on USAID FORSATY partners for psychosocial support as well as distance learning and activities that keep youth on a constructive path.
World Bank Approves $48 Million Loan to Morocco
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/306090/world-bank-approves-48-million-loan-to-morocco/
The World Bank announced it will grant a new $48 million loan to Morocco to help the country tackle the COVID-19 crisis.The bank announced that its board of executive directors had the approval of the loan on June 16, stipulating that the fund is part of an ongoing Program for Results project. The 2015 approved project aims to support primary health care services.World Bank Maghreb Country Director Jesko Hentschel said he is satisfied with Morocco’s COVID-19 response, commenting that the government has already taken “significant steps to contain the outbreak and lessen impact on vulnerable sectors and households.”
EU Contributes €157 Million to Morocco’s COVID-19 Response Fund
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/304258/eu-contributes-e157-million-to-moroccos-covid-19-response-fund/
The European Union (EU) transferred a grant of MAD 1.7 billion (€157 million) to Morocco on Monday, 26, to aid in the country’s COVID-19 response. A joint press release from the Ministry of Economy and the EU Delegation announced the news today, May 29, saying, “The Minister of Economy, Finance and Administrative Reform, Mohamed Benchaaboun, and EU Ambassador Claudia Wiedey welcomed the payments from the European Union which took place on May 26.” The statement said the EU injected the grant into Morocco’s Special Fund for the Management and Response to COVID-19.
Arab Monetary Fund extends more than $300m in loan to Tunisia and Morocco
https://www.thenational.ae/business/economy/arab-monetary-fund-extends-more-than-300m-in-loan-to-tunisia-and-morocco-1.1029267
The Arab Monetary Fund extended new loan agreements of $211 million and $98m to Morocco and Tunisia as it looks to support reform programmes in the North African states amid the coronavirus pandemic. The extension of the structural adjustment facility in Morocco will support the country’s public finance sector in the face of current circumstances, the AMF said in a statement. “The AMF assistance in this regard comes as a support to the reform efforts of member countries and the measures they are taking to stimulate the economy and provide liquidity in order to contain the negative effects of the virus outbreak,” the fund said in a statement.
US Offers Morocco Additional $5.7 Million to Mitigate COVID-19 Impact
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/301346/us-offers-morocco-additional-5-7-million-to-mitigate-covid-19-impact/
Trump’s Administration announced on May 1 a new grant of $5.7 million to Morocco as part of its international support campaign to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.The aid package includes $4 million from the Economic Support Fund (ESF) to help vulnerable populations recover from the pandemic’s socioeconomic effects, Maghreb Arab Press (MAP) reported.Quoting a statement from the US State Department, the outlet said that the aid includes “$1.7 million for health assistance to help prepare laboratory systems,” and to improve case detection and epidemiological surveillance.
Africa: African Union and African private sector launch COVID-19 Response Fund
https://www.africanews.com/2020/04/07/coronavirus-africa-african-union-and-african-private-sector-launch-covid-19-response-fund//
Ahead of an expected surge in cases of COVID-19 in Africa, the African Union and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have launched a public-private partnership with the AfroChampions Initiative, known as the Africa COVID-19 Response Fund. The partnership aims to raise an initial US$ 150 million for immediate needs to prevent transmission and up to US$ 400 million to support sustainable medical response to the COVID-19 pandemic by pooling the resources required for the procurement of medical supplies and commodities; supporting the deployment of rapid responders across the continent as well as providing socio-economic support to the most vulnerable populations in Africa.
IsDB and ITFC, under the Reverse Linkage and Arab Africa Trade Bridges Program, Launch E-Learning and Knowledge Sharing Platform for COVID-19 Medical Preparedness and Response in African Countries
https://www.africanews.com/2020/04/27/isdb-
As part of the crisis response actions to strengthen the capacities of member countries to withstand the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (www.ITFC-IDB.org), in coordination with their partners, the Moroccan Society of Anesthesia, Analgesia and Resuscitation (SMAAR) launched an online platform to facilitate learning and knowledge sharing between medical teams from African member countries of the Islamic Development Bank Group (IsDB). The initiative, that comes under the Reverse Linkage Mechanism and the Arab Africa Trade Bridges (AATB) Program, was rolled out via the first of two webinars focusing on pandemic preparedness and response, whilst leveraging on international expertise in this field.
WHO Sponsors COVID-19 Global Hackathon
https://covid-global-hackathon.devpost.com/
The COVID-19 Global Hackathon is an opportunity for developers to build software solutions that drive social impact, with the aim of tackling some of the challenges related to the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
G20 launches initiative for health tools needed to combat the coronavirus
https://www.theguardian.pe.ca/business/reuters/g20-launches-initiative-for-health-tools-needed-to-combat-the-coronavirus-442212/
The group of 20 rich and emerging economies on Sunday launched an international initiative to accelerate access to health tools needed to fight the new coronavirus. The finance minister of Saudi Arabia, the current G20 chair, said the group is still working to bridge an estimated $8 billion funding gap to combat the pandemic.
EBRD Lends BMCE Bank of Africa €145 Million to Support Struggling SMEs
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/04/300358/ebrd-lends-bmce-bank-of-africa-e145-million-to-support-struggling-smes/
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) announced today, April 22, a €145 million loan to Morocco’s BMCE Bank of Africa to support small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The funding is part of the EBRD’s COVID-19 Solidarity Package, a response and recovery program mobilizing €1 billion to handle the economic fallout caused by the COVID-19 crisis.
Morocco co-sponsors international initiative to protect women, girls during lockdown
https://northafricapost.com/39935-covid-19-morocco-co-sponsor-of-international-initiative-to-protect-women-girls-during-lockdown.html
Morocco, along with the European Union and a group of core countries, took the initiative to draw a joint declaration to support the appeal launched last week by the UN Secretary General António Guterres for “peace at home, in households, around the world” against domestic violence during confinement.
UN Women: COVID-19 Crisis Update and UN Women Response Morocco
http://elibrary.arabwomenorg.org/Content/21552_Morocoo.pdf
In times of crisis, the overload on health services severely impacts service resources and exacerbates the lack of access to sexual and reproductive health services. This underlines the importance of sustainable maternal health services and of equal access to medical products. Indeed, although basic essential health services are maintained, crisis management challenges various services providers in ensuring continued and appropriate assistance to women and girls who are subject to violence during the crisis.
3 Webinars and Events
From Great Lockdown to Great Transformation: A Conversation with IMF Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva
https://teams.microsoft.com/dl/launcher/launcher.htm
On June 9, the US Chamber of Commerce (USCC) hosted a virtual business community forum on sustainable global recovery with International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. Together with USCC CEO Tom Donohue, and USCC Executive Vice President and Head of International Affairs Myron Brilliant, Director Georgieva discussed pathways towards building resilient economic models that address green recovery, climate change, job creation and a more equitable society.
Moroccan Government Response
Timeline of Events
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/03/296727/coronavirus-a-timeline-of-covid-19-in-morocco/
July 9: Morocco extends coronavirus emergency decree until Aug 10
https://www.bna.bh/en/MoroccoextendscoronavirusemergencydecreeuntilAug10.
Morocco extended on Thursday an emergency decree until Aug. 10 giving local authorities leeway in taking restrictive measures in response to the coronavirus outbreak. The cabinet maintained the decree in force to allow for restoring lockdowns on a region-by-region basis depending on the coronavirus developments, said Reuters.
Morocco has unlocked since June 25 most of the economy allowing cafes, restaurants, sports clubs, and other services and entertainment businesses to resume activity at half capacity except in the provinces where infections remain higher such as Tangier, Marrakech and Safi.
July 1: Morocco to further increase domestic flights
RAM is increasing domestic flight frequency due to high demand. Dakhla and Laayoune are proving to be popular vacation destinations after months under lockdown.
Morocco repatriates 150 more nationals from France
The Moroccan government repatriates 150 more nationals stuck in France on a flight from Paris to Marrakech.
Repatriation operations to expand to Canada Saturday
Morocco is set to expand its repatriation operations for the benefit of Moroccans stranded in Canada starting Saturday, July 4. The government is yet to announce a decision on the timing of the repatriation of Moroccans stranded in the US.
June 30: Morocco repatriates 304 more nationals from Turkey
The Moroccan government repatriates 304 more nationals stuck in Turkey on a flight from Istanbul to Marrakech.
Culture ministry invests in arts
Morocco’s culture ministry is allocating new funding and implementing resources and programs to support artists and mitigate the impact COVID-19 has had on their work.
Morocco repatriates last of nationals stuck in Japan
The Moroccan government repatriates the final group of nationals stuck in Japan.
June 29: Warnings against fake news about lockdown easing
The head of the Moroccan government warns against fake news promoted on social media regarding an alleged expansion of lockdown easing measures in several other Moroccan regions.
Morocco repatriates 155 more nationals from France
The Moroccan government repatriates 155 more nationals stuck in France on a flight from Paris to Marrakech.
June 27: Education minister checks out bac testing sites
The minister of education assures students and their families of the enhanced security and public health precautions being taken within testing centers during visits to various test centers in Rabat-Sale-Kenitra.
Health ministry attributes COVID-19 case spike to increased testing
The Ministry of Health assures that the epidemiological situation in Morocco is under control and that the recent surge in confirmed COVID-19 cases is due to mass testing operations.
Morocco repatriates 160 from Spain
The Moroccan government repatriates 160 nationals stuck in Spain on a flight from Seville to Beni Mellal.
June 26: Media sector receives $21.22 million aid package
The minister of culture announces an emergency plan to financially support Morocco’s print and electronic media with a budget of $21.22 million.
First group of Moroccans stuck in the UK returns
The Moroccan government repatriates 150 nationals stuck in the UK on a flight from London to Marrakech.
Second group of Moroccans stuck in the Netherlands returns
The Moroccan government repatriates 150 more nationals stuck in the Netherlands on a flight from Amsterdam to Marrakech.
Morocco repatriates 150 nationals from Italy
The Moroccan government repatriates 150 nationals stuck in Italy on a flight from Milan to Agadir.
Friday’s repatriation operations to Marrakech serve 917 nationals
A total of 917 nationals arrive at the Marrakech Menara Airport on six flights from the UK, France, the Netherlands, Cote d’Ivoire, and Senegal.
June 25: The country relaxes lockdown measures for 90% of Morocco’s population as COVID-19 cases reach 11,338, with 8,500 recoveries and 217 deaths.
The health ministry records 431 new cases, 32 recoveries, and one death in 24 hours, but the government remains committed to its deconfinement plan.
June 24: ‘Wiqaytna’ app garners two million downloads
Morocco’s official COVID-19 tracking app “Wiqaytna” exceeds two million downloads in a three-week period.
81% of transport, logistics projects resume
The minister of transport says work has resumed on 81% of projects related to the transport and logistics sector, which have a gross budget of $4.1 billion and are related to road infrastructure, ports, motorways, railways, dams, and construction.
June 23: Morocco to reimburse hajj candidates after 2020 cancellation
From July 1-24, Morocco’s Royal Committee for Hajj is set to reimburse the 34,000 Moroccan pilgrimage candidates who made payments to take part in the now-canceled 2020 hajj season.
First group of Moroccans repatriated from Belgium
A plane from Brussels returns home 150 Moroccans in the country’s first repatriation operation for the benefit of nationals stranded in Belgium.
Botola to resume by end of July
The minister of sports says the official resumption of the Moroccan Football League (Botola) will occur at the end of July, with the first match on July 24, and that training sessions for teams will resume next week.
June 22: Stranded Moroccans return from the Netherlands
The first repatriation flight from the Netherlands brings home 150 Moroccans from Amsterdam. The flights benefitted citizens in vulnerable situations, including those with illnesses and those who went abroad for medical procedures, as well as older adults.
June 21: Morocco repatriates more nationals from Turkey
The number of Moroccans repatriated from Turkey grows to 1,030 after operations began on June 16.
Thousands of Moroccans set for repatriation between June 22-25
From June 22 to 25, Morocco will commence repatriation operations using 20 flights to bring back 3,180 Moroccans stranded in France, the Netherlands, Tunisia, the UAE, Belgium, Senegal, and Italy.
The repatriated citizens will all arrive at Agadir’s Massira Airport.
As more lockdown measures ease, normalcy is on the horizon for 90% of the country
More than 90% of Morocco’s provinces are set to enjoy even more relaxed measures come June 25, with fewer restrictions on movement; no curfew; reopened cafes, restaurants, shopping centers, gyms, and hammams; resumption of intercity travel and domestic flights; opened beaches, sports fields, and parks; and a return to domestic tourism activities in Zone 1.
Morocco carries out 20,000 daily screening tests for employees
Ait Taleb says the country has reinforced COVID-19 screening operations for employees and professionals, testing, on average, 20,000 per day. The screening initiative is likely to help “make up for the economic deficit recorded during the period of containment to revive a dynamic of activity and to return to a normal rhythm of productivity,” he says.
Amzazi: Hotspots are natural during deconfinement
The government spokesman says the emergence of new COVID-19 hotspots is natural as the country gradually lifts its nationwide lockdown, reassuring that authorities have quickly intervened to isolate hotspots such as the recent 457-case outbreak in Kenitra.
Moroccans repatriated from Mauritania, Tunisia
Morocco continues its African repatriation operations, bringing home 151 Moroccans from Mauritania and 150 from Tunisia. Flights are also ongoing to repatriate Moroccans from various European countries.
Morocco to repatriate 5,000 citizens per week
Bourita vows that Morocco will repatriate 5,000 to 6,000 Moroccans stranded abroad every week, with RAM operating approximately 30 weekly flights.
The airplanes will also start filling 100% of their passenger capacity after previous repatriation flights only used two-thirds of available seats.
June 20: New field hospital in Kenitra aims to quell hotspot
Morocco’s Interior Minister Abdelouafi Laftit announces the establishment of a field hospital in Sidi Yahya El Gharb, near Kenitra, after a major outbreak in red fruits canning sites in the Kenitra province.
June 19: Moroccan government moves some provinces to Zone 1
Casablanca, El Hajeb, Fez, Berrechid, El Jadida, Ben Slimane, Mediouna, Nouaceur, Mohammedia, Rabat, and Skhirat-Temara will be included in Zone 1 come June 25. Areas under this classification are enjoying a gradual relaxation of lockdown measures.
The decision excludes the provinces and prefectures of Tangier-Asilah, Marrakech, Larache, and Kenitra, where COVID-19 hotspots recently emerged
June 18: Industry minister: COVID-19 pandemic reveals Morocco’s production capabilities
Morocco’s Minister of Industry Moulay Hafid Elalamy says Morocco could be “an important” piece of the puzzle of industrial competitiveness and production in Europe and that evidence abounds of Morocco’s capacity to not only sustain itself but lend support to its African and European allies during the unprecedented pandemic.
Moroccan lawyers defend workplace COVID-19 screenings
Moroccan lawyers say that the government policy to test private-sector employees for COVID-19 before allowing them to return to work does not violate workers’ personal freedoms and that employers have the right to dismiss employees should they refuse to be screened.
June 17: Morocco Prepares for Re-Opening of Domestic Tourism
Head of Government Saad Eddine El Othmani said on June 16 the second deconfinement phase will include a relaunch of more economic, social, and cultural activities in both Zones 1 and 2.The announcement may also include gradual Launch of domestic tourism, which was directly affected by the COVID-19 crsis.Tourism accounts for 11% of Morocco’s GDP.On May 5, Morocco’s Minister of Tourism Nadia Fettah Alaoui said 87% of hotels in Morocco had shut down due to the COVID-19 crisis.
June 16: Morocco’s Central Bank Reduces Key Rate to 1.5%
The Moroccan central bank, Bank Al Maghrib, (BAM) proceeded on Tuesday to reduce the key rate by a further 50 basis points, lowering it to 1.5%.The decision came during BAM’s second quarterly board meeting of 2020.The reduction follows a 25-basis-point cut to the key rate last March, aiming to “fully liberate the reserve account in favor of the banks,” said BAM in a statement on June 16.The decision adds to BAM’s set of measures to mitigate the negative repercussions of the COVID-19 crisis on Morocco’s economy, which was the main focus of the board meeting.
June 10: The health ministry records one new death, 71 cases, and 72 recoveries. Morocco’s virus totals reach 211 deaths, 8,508 cases, and 7,565 recoveries.
Mosques to open in a ‘timely manner’
Morocco’s Supreme Scientific Council says the reopening of mosques will occur in a timely manner, in full coordination with the Ministry of Health and the relevant authorities, and while taking into account the epidemiological situation in Morocco.
Morocco outlines lockdown strategy
Due to the regional disparities in the epidemiological situation, the lockdown measures will differ from one region to another.
The country is divided into two zones: Zone 1 includes 80% of Moroccan regions and provinces, 95% of Morocco’s territory, and 61% of the country’s population; Zone 2 includes 16 regions and provinces and 87% of the country’s COVID-19 cases.
Moroccans, regardless of what zone they live in, must continue to respect health and safety measures, such as wearing face masks in public and avoiding gatherings. Businesses that are based on social gatherings remain closed. The new eased measures are expected to help the Moroccan economy gradually recover.
June 9: Morocco exports 18.5 million face masks to 11 countries
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305306/morocco-exports-18-5-million-face-masks-worldwide/
The Moroccan Ministry of Industry has announced that Morocco exported over 18.5 million protective face masks to 11 countries since the Ministry authorized their export on May 21.
After securing the domestic market’s demand, Morocco authorized the export of face masks, starting with exports to Europe. Approximately 33.6% of the exported masks went to France, followed by Portugal with 28.5%, and Spain with 14.6%, according to the ministry. In addition to Europe, African countries also benefited from the Moroccan products. Recipient African countries include Algeria, Mauritania, and Senegal. Mexico and Saudi Arabia also imported Moroccan masks.
Morocco announces phase 1 of lockdown exit strategy
A joint statement from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of the Interior outlines the country’s strategy to ease lockdown, to begin on June 11. The country is divided into two zones, where measures depend on the epidemiological situation in each prefecture and region.
Phase one of deconfinement seeks to ensure the resumption of economic activities in all Moroccan regions, including industries, shops, handicrafts, local activities and small trades stores, local commerce, and weekly souks (produce markets). Cafes, restaurants, hammams, cinemas, theaters, and mosques will not recommence activities at this stage.
ONDA unveils plan to resume airport activity
The action plan, complete with sanitary and social distancing measures, aims to prioritize the safety of passengers, personnel, and all airport staff and visitors.
No set date to reopen borders
Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs admits that while the country has commenced repatriation operations to bring home Moroccans stranded abroad, the official date to reopen its borders is yet to be determined.
June 8: Morocco to ease lockdown, extend state of health emergency
Morocco’s state of emergency will remain in place until at least July 10 at 6 p.m., but the lockdown will start easing up on the evening of June 10.
The state of emergency is a legal framework that allows the government to implement proactive measures, while the lockdown is one of the preventive measures the government has implemented within this framework.
RAM devises recovery plan
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305247/morocco-strategizes-royal-air-maroc-covid-19-recovery-plan/
Morocco’s national airline Royal Air Maroc (RAM) is setting up a plan to overcome the damaging economic crisis it faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Minister of Tourism Nadia Fettah El Alaoui discussed the flag carrier’s strategy to mitigate the repercussions of the crisis during a session of the House of Representatives on June 8:
“The national company RAM has drawn up an austerity plan with a range of measures to combat the fallout from the crisis. We are currently developing a recovery plan based on an analysis of demand and preventive measures for passengers and employees,” she announced.
Repatriation operations set to kick off in Spain
Morocco is set to begin repatriation operations for Moroccans stranded in Spain within the next 48 hours, announces Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita. Repatriation will start with those who have been stranded in the region of Algeciras, then Madrid, Catalonia, and the Basque region.
After bringing home those stranded in Spain, Morocco will move to repatriate Moroccan tourists stranded in Turkey, the Gulf countries, France, as well as African countries. Repatriation will first prioritize Moroccans who went abroad on short tourist visas, as well as those who are in a precarious financial situation or suffer from serious health conditions.
Mobile COVID-19 testing lab deployed to Casablanca
The Ministry of Health deploys a mobile COVID-19 testing laboratory in Morocco’s hardest-hit city, Casablanca, to strengthen the economic capital’s screening capacity with fast and accurate tests. The laboratory is set to perform approximately 600 tests daily and intends to primarily serve private sector companies.
Strategy to rescue tourism, craft sectors
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305408/morocco-devises-action-plan-to-revive-tourism-craft-sectors/
Morocco is working to re-establish itself as a global destination for tourists in a post-pandemic world, Minister of Tourism Nadia Fettah El Alaoui announced Monday.
El Alaoui explained the plan as focusing on the preservation of employment, skills, and capacities of professionals in the sector, and promoting the sector’s revival with an initial emphasis on domestic tourism.
The craft sector has also been hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ministry of Tourism is coordinating with the Ministry of Industry to tap into the craft sector in the national effort against COVID-19 by granting artisan sewing cooperatives certification to produce protective masks, El Alaoui added. The “Solidarity With Cooperatives” initiative also aims to promote the purchase of Moroccan artisans’ products during the exceptional crisis, in partnership with civil society actors and the private sector.
June 7: Moroccan labs carry out up to 17,500 COVID-19 tests daily
The health minister announces that 24 national laboratories in Morocco carried out a combined total of 17,500 screening tests for COVID-19 in one day. Morocco aims to carry out 1.8 million COVID-19 tests by the end of July or the start of August.
Ait Taleb: Morocco has overcome the worst of COVID-19
The health minister says during a webinar that “we have succeeded together and with pride in overcoming the most difficult of this crisis” and that Moroccan hospitals have “succeeded in caring for people suffering from this disease, most of whom [recovered].”
June 6: 1 million Moroccans download Wiqaytna
Despite some citizens’ privacy concerns, the health ministry’s COVID-19 tracking application “Wiqaytna” (our protection) has collected more than one million downloads since its June 1 launch.
June 5: Arab Monetary Fund loans Morocco $211 million
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305004/arab-monetary-fund-loans-211-million-for-moroccos-economic-recovery/
The Arab Monetary Fund (AMF) provides a loan of $211 million to Morocco to assist it in undertaking public finance reforms amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
June 4: Health ministry defends COVID-19 tracking app
The Ministry of Health responds to controversy surrounding its newly-launched COVID-19 tracking app, Wiqaytna. The ministry said that the application uses only Bluetooth technology and it is, therefore, impossible to track users’ movements, and the only mandatory information collected in a ministry server is the phone number of the user.
The data collected is stored on the user’s mobile phone and can be transferred to the central information server of the Ministry of Health only in the event of a user’s contamination and with the user’s consent.
King Mohammed VI extends CSMD deadline
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/304841/king-mohammed-vi-extends-deadline-for-moroccos-new-development-model/
King Mohammed VI agreed to offer an additional six months to the Special Commission on the Development Model (CSMD), in charge of advising on the country’s development trajectory to effectively meet Moroccans’ needs.
The King granted the extra months in order to allow the commission to “deepen the different aspects of the projected development model and to integrate in its work the implications and transformations engendered by the COVID-19 pandemic.” The additional six-month period will allow the commission to resume and strengthen its approach of co-construction of the development model.
June 3: King Mohammed VI Orders Mass Testing to Protect Private Sector Employees
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/304765/king-mohammed-vi-orders-mass-testing-to-protect-private-sector-employees/
King Mohammed VI has called on employers to undertake a mass screening action within the participatory framework for managing the COVID-19 crisis. The Ministry of Health and the General Confederation of Enterprises of Morocco (CGEM) quoted the King’s instructions in a joint statement on June 3. The statement emphasized that the operation will allow company managers to protect employees and limit the risk of virus spreading by conducting screening tests.
June 1: Morocco Invests $36 Million to Assist Farmers Affected By Drought
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/304551/morocco-invests-36-million-to-assist-farmers-affected-by-drought/
The Moroccan Minister of Agriculture Aziz Akhannouch said Tuesday that his department allocated MAD 350 million ($35.89 million) to assist farmers affected by the lack of rainfall during the agricultural season. During a session of the House of Representatives on June 1, Akhannouch said the Ministry of Agriculture launched the initiative to assist Moroccan farmers on an “exceptional basis” after having assessed the effects of drought since March 14. The Mutual Moroccan Agricultural Insurance Company (MAMDA) helped the ministry assess the drought-affected areas.
May 31: Morocco Issues Post-Lockdown Protocol for Businesses, Shopping Centers
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/304492/morocco-issues-post-lockdown-protocol-for-businesses-shopping-centers
As Morocco resumes some economic activities, the Ministry of Commerce has set guidelines for businesses and shopping centers operating while COVID-19 is still a threat in the country.Independent business owners must put up awareness posters detailing hygiene rules and the preventive measures against COVID-19 that customers must respect before entering the store.Business owners should adopt health measures such as regular cleaning and disinfection of door handles, tables, fitting rooms, etc., and promote customer awareness of sanitary standards.
May 28: Morocco Establishes Protocol to Avoid COVID-19 Spread in Workplaces
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/304035/morocco-establishes-protocol-to-avoid-covid-19-spread-in-workplaces/
Morocco’s Ministry of Industry and Ministry of Labor today announced the establishment of a protocol to avoid the spread of COVID-19 in workplaces as Morocco resumes economic activities.
The protocol concerns general occupational health and safety measures, as well as measures related to the planning and organization of work, hygiene in the workplace, catering, transport, access to work premises, and the care of employees with COVID-19 symptoms, the ministries underlined.
The ministries added that they intend to publish guidelines for specific sectors, taking into account the features of their various activities and recommending measures accordingly.
May 27: Morocco prepares for Eid al-Adha
Moroccan authorities are already preparing for the country to celebrate Eid al-Adha in optimal conditions amid the COVID-19 pandemic, says Minister of Agriculture Aziz Akhannouch.
Morocco’s National Office for Food Health Safety (ONSSA) has selected and vaccinated more than 2.6 million sheep to be sold for the feast.
The main challenge for the religious holiday, according to the minister, is preventing rural markets, where livestock is usually sold, from turning into hotspots for COVID-19 transmission.
Morocco to continue chloroquine use
Despite the World Health Organization’s (WHO) decision to halt trials on hydroxychloroquine as a COVID-19 treatment, Morocco continues its use of the medication.
“Opinions differ, but the bottom line is that chloroquine is involved in viral inactivation [of the virus],” says Moroccan Minister of Health Khalid Ait Taleb.
May 24: Construction projects set to resume
After a two-month halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic, construction sites in Morocco are set to begin operating again this week.
Construction sites must comply with health and safety measures in accordance with the Moroccan authorities’ guidelines to avoid major COVID-19 outbreaks, Minister of Urban Planning Nouzha Bouchareb says during a meeting with Moroccan housing operator Al Omrane.
May 23: Print media gets green-light to resume operations
Minister of Culture Othman El Ferdaous announces that newspapers and magazines can resume the issuance, publication, and distribution of paper editions starting on May 26. The resumption of activities must be in line with the Ministry of Health’s preventive measures to stem the spread of COVID-19.
On March 22, the ministry ordered all publishers of newspapers and magazines to suspend the issuance, publication, and distribution of paper editions.
May 21: Morocco, Indonesia Team Up to Fight COVID-19 in Africa
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303353/morocco-indonesia-team-up-to-fight-covid-19-in-africa/
Indonesia and Morocco have agreed to coordinate their efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa, Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi announced yesterday. “Indonesia and Morocco have agreed to work together through the Ministerial Coordination Group on Covid-19, as well as through other international forums, to face the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly in Africa,” said Marsudi during a videoconference based in Jakarta. She stressed that the world cannot definitively defeat the global pandemic if countries are left behind, particularly African states. The Indonesian FM underlined the right of developing countries to access quality health services and the COVID-19 vaccine, as soon as scientists can develop it.
Application for 3rd COVID-19 Aid Opens Today for Informal Workers
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303324/application-for-3rd-covid-19-aid-opens-today-for-informal-workers/
Morocco’s Ministry of Economy launched today, May 21, the online platform “tadamoncovid.ma” for workers in the informal sector to apply for financial aid during the COVID-19 pandemic. The applications concern the third monthly stipends the ministry has allocated for informal workers who lost jobs due to Morocco’s nationwide lockdown. The Moroccan government has already distributed the first stipends, for the month of March, and is currently distributing the second stipends, allocated for the month of April. The third operation will cover the month of May.
CVE reveals economic recovery plan
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303467/economic-monitoring-committee-announces-moroccos-recovery-plan/
Morocco’s Economic Monitoring Committee (CVE) announces a series of new measures to help relaunch the Moroccan economy after the COVID-19 crisis.
The main solution the committee implemented to support Moroccan businesses recover is a loan guarantee plan, financed by the state treasury. The system will cover all Moroccan companies, both public and private, that sustained damage during the COVID-19 pandemic.
May 20: UNHCR, Morocco Sign Agreement to Improve Healthcare Access for Refugees
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303285/unhcr-morocco-sign-agreement-to-improve-healthcare-access-for-refugees/
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the National Council of the Medical Association (CNOM) will team up to improve healthcare access for refugees and asylum seekers in Morocco. The UNHCR and CNOM signed an agreement on May 20 to help enable both bodies to promote health services access for refugees and to fight against the spread of COVID-19. The UNHCR representative in Morocco, Francois Reybet Degat, signed the partnership agreement with CNOM President Mohammadin Boubekri.
May 18: Morocco Extends State of Emergency Until June 10
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302978/official-morocco-extends-state-of-emergency-until-june-10/
The Moroccan government has decided to extend the country’s state of emergency for three more weeks until June 10, announced Head of Government Saad Eddine El Othmani today. The extension aims to avoid the emergence of virus hotspots and confirms the country’s priority of protecting human lives at all cost, El Othmani said during a joint parliamentary session. El Othmani said the “R0” reproduction rate must remain below one for more than two weeks, and must be less than 0.7 for maximum safety. The R0 represents the average number of people a single person with COVID-19 infects.
May 13: Morocco’s Informal Workers to Receive Second Stipend Starting May 14
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302394/moroccos-informal-workers-to-receive-second-stipend-starting-may-14/
The second operation to support Moroccan households where breadwinners work in the informal sector and lost their income due to the COVID-19 crisis is set to start on Thursday, May 14, the Ministry of Economy announced. The families registered in the program will receive financial aid, with the total stipend depending on the size of the family.
Families of two people or less will receive stipends of MAD 800 ($80), while families of three to four people will receive MAD 1,000 ($100). Families of more than four people will receive MAD 1,200 ($120). Morocco’s Special Fund for the Management and Response to COVID-19 is financing the stipends.
May 12: Education ministry cancels exams
The education minister announces the official cancellation of all final exams during the 2019-2020 academic year for some levels. Students of the national and regional baccalaureate exams will sit for exams in July and September 2020.
Students will return to school for the 2020-2021 academic year in September.
May 11: Amzazi: COVID-19 is far from over
Morocco’s Minister of Education and Government Spokesperson Said Amzazi has urged Moroccans to understand that the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic is far from over, warning that the country remains in a dangerous phase.
The official’s statement may be laying the groundwork for a further extension of Morocco’s state of emergency and nationwide lockdown, scheduled to end on May 20.
Interior, health ministries develop COVID-19 app
The ministries of health and the interior reveal the first details of a soon-to-be-launched mobile application, “Wiqaytna,” to track COVID-19 infections. The application will allow health monitoring units to track those who made contact with COVID-19 patients in the 21 days prior to testing positive to contain the pandemic’s spread.
May 10: Souks reopen in rural regions
Moroccan authorities give the green light to weekly produce markets in 12 rural regions, in compliance with sanitary measures. The souks affected by the changes are in Sidi Kacem, Figuig, Tetouan, Khenifra, Safi, Errachidia, Fkih Ben Salah, Boulemane, Settat, Chtouka Ait Baha, Khemisset, and Jerada.
The decision is based on the epidemiological situation in the regions. Authorities reserve the right to ban the markets again according to the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic.
May 9: Pandemic highlights role of women: Minister
Minister of Solidarity Jamila El Moussali said the lockdown period has shown the valuable role that women play in Moroccan society. She stressed that the crisis is a chance to reexamine cultural norms and build a culture that better facilitates Moroccan women’s socio-economic progress and contributions to society.
May 8: Morocco Sets New Measures to Financially Support Enterprises, Individuals
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302057/morocco-sets-new-measures-to-financially-support-enterprises-individuals/
Morocco’s Economic Watch Committee (CVE) has taken several measures concerning enterprises and individuals affected by the COVID-19 crisis during its seventh meeting held virtually on Friday, May 8.
Regarding measures for individuals, the CVE decided that the state and the banking sector will bear the full cost of the periodic interest accrual resulting from the postponement of maturities on housing and consumer loans for the period of March to June 2020.
The measure concerns individuals with monthly credit maturities of up to MAD 3,000 ($300) for housing loans and up to MAD 1,500 ($150) for consumer loans, including those contracted with finance companies.
May 7: Morocco permits mask exports
Morocco’s Minister of Industry Moulay Hafid Elalamy says Moroccan textile companies are allowed to export half of their locally-produced masks if national demand is met. As long as the national stock is supplied with 15 million fabric masks, the country will authorize all textile companies to export the remaining products, the minister said, adding that the country must always keep a minimum stock of 15 million masks.
GSN launches communication platform
The DGSN launches an interactive online platform to communicate violations of the country’s state of emergency measures to the public. The open platform is part of the DGSN’s efforts to set up interactive tools to establish instant communication with citizens and to involve internet users in national efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.
The platform transmits the data on state of emergency violations to the DGSN’s control and coordination rooms, allowing officers to effectively ensure the implementation of confinement measures in specific areas.
May 6: Upper House of Moroccan Parliament Approves State of Emergency Law
(https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/301749/upper-house-of-moroccan-parliament-approves-state-of-emergency-law/)
The upper house in the Moroccan Parliament approved today Law 2.20.292 on Morocco’s state of emergency. The Committee of the Interior, Territorial Collectivities, and Infrastructure at the House of Councillors (upper house) adopted Bill 23.20 approving the legislation enacting special provisions for the state of health emergency in Morocco and entailing the measures for its declaration. The upper house approved Law 2.20.292 by majority vote with one abstention.
May 5: Moroccan Parliament to Adopt Electronic Voting System
(https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/301650/moroccan-parliament-to-adopt-electronic-voting-system/)
The bureau of Morocco’s House of Councillors, or the upper house of Parliament, is set to implement an electronic voting system in plenary sessions and generalize the system for all standing committees starting next week.
The upper house announced the decision in a statement at the end of the bureau’s weekly video conference meeting yesterday. Hakim Benchamach, the speaker of the upper house, said the move is in line with the first chapter of article 60 of the Constitution and with article 175 related to the rules of procedure of the upper house.
May 1: Participation of the National Social Security Fund in the special fund for the management of the COVID-19 pandemic
https://www.cnss.ma/ar/content
Within the framework of the spirit of solidarity and taking into account the values borne by the Foundation, the Fund Board of Directors gave its General Manager approval to contribute a sum of 500 million dirhams of contributions obtained in the form of compensation for loss of work, in the fund for the management of the Coronavirus pandemic.
April 30: Bill to support tourism industry
The government council convenes to adopt Draft Bill 30.20, setting measures to support the tourism sector in the wake of steep losses due to the COVID-19 crisis.
Draft Bill 30.20 aims to limit the stagnation of economic activity and its impact on jobs by reducing the pressure on tourism service providers’ cash flow, keep providers from going bankrupt while protecting the interests of providers’ creditors and customers, and stimulate demand for tourism services and preserve the value of trade in Morocco by avoiding possible payments in foreign currency.
Morocco confident state of emergency to end May 20
Local media citing government officials report that the Moroccan government is confident the nationwide lockdown under the state of health emergency will not extend beyond the set date of May 20, due to Morocco’s low COVID-19 mortality rate.
Ait Taleb: R0 ratio must change
Minister of Health Khalid Ait Taleb says the government will not lift the state of emergency until there is a change in the “R0” ratio. The R0 ratio determines how infectious a virus is and refers to how many people are infected by a single person.
The minister says the R0 must be less than one over two weeks, meaning each infected person would transmit the virus, on average, to less than one person.
Concerns over increase domestic violence reports
Morocco’s public prosecution calls for a telephone hotline or digital platform to receive domestic violence complaints amid concerns of an increase in abuse during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Between March 20 and April 20, the first month of the lockdown, Moroccan prosecutors registered 892 complaints of physical, sexual, economic, and psychological abuse of women.
April 29: Tailored economic recovery plans
Morocco’s Economic Monitoring Committee (CVE) discusses the development of sectoral recovery plans that will support the Moroccan economy after the COVID-19 crisis.
The CVE also approves a series of measures, including a directive to spread the state budget for additional coronavirus-related expenses over the course of five years, as well as a directive for accountants to include the impact of the pandemic in their audits and the expansion of the Damane Oxygene guarantee program.
April 28: New CNSS stipend request portal
CNSS launches a new version of its covid-19.cnss.ma portal to allow its affiliated companies to declare stipend requests for employees whose payments are suspended due to the pandemic.
April 27: 4.3 million informal workers to receive stipends
A total of 4.3 million families headed by workers in the informal sector will benefit from a stipend granted from the Special Fund for the Management and Respond to COVID-19, according to the minister of economy.
So far, aid has reached 2 million households of non-RAMED holders working in the informal sector.
9,000 Moroccan companies benefit from $373 million loan
Morocco has granted 9,000 loans specifically to companies with a turnover below $50 million. Granted through the CCG’s Damane Oxygene, the loans amounted to $370 million, according to the economy minister.
EU to support distance education in Morocco
The European Union is set to grant Morocco €139.16 million to strengthen the country’s distance education mechanisms and ensure the continuation of Moroccan students’ learning amid the COVID-19 crisis.
El Othmani says COVID-19 may strengthen government’s social orientation
The COVID-19 pandemic has urged the Moroccan government to reflect on means to strengthen its social orientation, says Head of Government Saad Eddine El Othmani.
“The unprecedented scale of this [health] crisis effectively urges us to think about further strengthening the social orientation of the government … We will decide on the appropriate improvements in due course,” he said.
The Moroccan economy is witnessing paradigm shifts on several levels and what is happening today will not only lead to the emergence of a new development model, but also to new ways of working, producing, and consuming, the head of government concludes.
April 26: Moroccan National Tourism Office launches ‘Until We Meet’ campaign
The Moroccan National Tourism Office (ONMT) announces the launch of the “3lamantlakaw” campaign, meaning “Until We Meet,” to support and encourage the tourism sector during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This campaign is an honest invitation to accompany all Moroccans during the lockdown period and to remind us all of the extent of the country’s wealth and it’s unity, that our country is our most valuable resource,” said Adel El Fakir, general director of the Tourism Office, in a video message.
April 25: Prison testing, suspension of detainee and inmate transfers
Morocco’s General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration (DGAPR) has launched large-scale testing for COVID-19 at all Moroccan prisons, in coordination with health and administrative authorities.
DGAPR conducted tests on 1,736 people, including 961 inmates, 711 civil servants, and 64 employees.
DGAPR also temporarily bans the transfer of detainees to Moroccan courts and of inmates to public hospitals for at least one month to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in correctional facilities.
April 24: COVID-19 response fund amounts to $3.2 billion
Minister of Economy Mohamed Benchaaboun declares the total resources of the Special Fund for the Management and Response to COVID-19 to be $3.2 billion.
Expenses from the fund amounted to $620 million. A sum of MAD 2 $200 million was allocated to the health sector in order to purchase necessary medical equipment.
April 23: Non-RAMED households receive stipends
Workers with suspended activities who do not have the Medical Assistance Plan (RAMED) begin receiving stipends.
A ministry statement clarified that the amounts of aid granted per household as well as the withdrawal procedure will be identical to those served to households registered in the RAMED service.
Health ministry holds medical staff recruitment contest
Morocco’s Ministry of Health launches a recruitment contest for over 1,000 medical staff, including 299 doctors, to strengthen the country’s health sector in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to doctors, the ministry is recruiting 852 medical and paramedical staff, including 357 nurses, 271 midwives, 98 technicians, 95 physiotherapists, and 31 social assistants.
Non-RAMED households receive stipends
Workers with suspended activities who do not have the Medical Assistance Plan (RAMED) begin receiving stipends.
A ministry statement clarified that the amounts of aid granted per household as well as the withdrawal procedure will be identical to those served to households registered in the RAMED service.
Health ministry holds medical staff recruitment contest
Morocco’s Ministry of Health launches a recruitment contest for over 1,000 medical staff, including 299 doctors, to strengthen the country’s health sector in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to doctors, the ministry is recruiting 852 medical and paramedical staff, including 357 nurses, 271 midwives, 98 technicians, 95 physiotherapists, and 31 social assistants.
April 22: Moroccan government bans disinfection tunnels
A joint statement from the ministries of health, interior, and trade announce Morocco’s ban on using and marketing disinfection tunnels due to the dangers of exposure to the products that the machines use.
The statement says that such tunnels could be useful to disinfect devices and products used for the packing, handling, and transport of goods, but not for humans.
The ministries call on all institutions to remove disinfection tunnels for individuals that were placed at building entrances in public spaces and shops, warning, “Any violation of this decision will lead to legal action.”
April 21: Foreign ministry releases statement on repatriation
The Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it spared no efforts to help the 21,000 Moroccan nationals who are stranded abroad due to the COVID-19-induced lockdown and closed borders.
The ministry said the repatriation process should be well-prepared and the appropriate conditions “must be met so that we can meet this challenge, that our compatriots can return to their families and that the health security of all Moroccans, without exception, is preserved or guaranteed.”
DGSN tracking app
Morocco’s DGSN has launched a mobile application that allows police officers at various checkpoints to track the movements of Moroccan citizens and residents to ensure their compliance with the state of health emergency.
The application was initially launched exclusively in the cities of Rabat, Sale, and Temara. The app will later be generalized at the national level.
New measures for the homeless
El Othmani comments on the efforts of social services in Morocco to address the impact of COVID-19 on vulnerable people who are experiencing homelessness.
A collective effort between local authorities, territorial authorities, civil society, National Mutual Aid (EN), and the Red Crescent has allowed for the sheltering of approximately 6,230 people in need throughout 145 facilities. Efforts also included reuniting 1,699 individuals with their families.
Morocco extends flight ban to May 31
The French and British embassies in Morocco inform the public of the government’s decision to extend its air travel ban until at least May 31.
The French consulate in Morocco announced that Moroccan authorities have set midnight on May 31 as a potential end date for the suspension of travel to and from Morocco.
The British Ambassador to Morocco, Thomas Reilly, urged UK nationals to take advantage of repatriation flights, as “there will be no ‘normal’ commercial air transport” before at least May 31.
April 20: Morocco ramps up testing capacity
Morocco is ramping up its testing capacity for COVID-19, conducting 1,263 tests on suspected new cases in one day.
On average, the country performed 917 tests per day between April 11 and April 19. Analysts have linked large-scale testing to improved control of the coronavirus pandemic.
RAMED stipend beneficiaries
More than 200,000 eligible Medical Assistance Plan (RAMED) holders benefit from stipends every day as part of the country’s efforts to alleviate financial pressure on informal sector workers.
Stipend distribution commenced on April 13, and the CVE said it is conducted in full “compliance with the required health standards.”
Casablanca erects largest field hospital in Africa
Casablanca’s temporary field hospital is open to receive and treat COVID-19 patients. With a capacity of over 700 beds, it is the largest of its kind in Morocco and in Africa.
Authorities launched the hospital’s construction on April 6. The project cost approximately MAD 45 million ($450,000).
April 19: New mask regulations
The Ministry of Industry introduces new regulations for the manufacturing of protective masks made of non-woven fabric.
“The manufacturing fabric must, therefore, be free of heavy metals, ensuring breathability and avoiding any irritation or allergy to the wearer,” the ministry clarified.
Masks must be sold in packages of ten units for MAD 8 ($0.80) and not sold individually or in open packages.
Any non-compliance with the new regulations is punishable by a fine and legal action against offenders.
April 18: State of emergency extension
The Moroccan government council agrees to extend the country’s state of emergency for another 30 days until May 20 as COVID-19 cases continue to increase.
The extension of the state emergency will leave Moroccans in lockdown in Ramadan, the holy month when thousands of Muslims convene at mosques to perform extra prayers called Taraweeh after Salat Al Isha (evening prayer).
COVID-19 threat in industrial sector
Moroccan ministries call for cooperation to ensure the cleanliness of industrial workplaces and to enforce preventive measures.
The ministries urged stricter compliance with measures such as limiting the numbers of employees in workspaces and in transit to work, enforcing the wearing of masks, providing handwashing stations, and ensuring proper ventilation in workplaces.
CNSS mobilizes polyclinics
The National Social Security Fund (CNSS) mobilizes three new polyclinics for the benefit of health authorities: Tangier Polyclinic (64 beds), Marrakech Polyclinic (54 beds), and Inara Polyclinic in Casablanca (80 beds).
April 17: Supporting formal sector employees
The Moroccan government council approves draft law 52-20 enacting exceptional measures in favor of employers who are affiliated with CNSS and whose employees lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 crisis. The law sets the conditions for granting a MAD 2,000 ($200) monthly stipend to employees with suspended activity.
April 16: Assisting deceased MREs
The minister delegate for Moroccans residing abroad (MREs) reiterates Morocco’s vows to assist MREs and repatriate the remains of deceased relatives after the COVID-19 crisis passes.
April 14: Coronavirus tracking app
Morocco commences the development of a mobile app that tracks COVID-19 carriers to identify potential infections. The Ministry of Interior, in coordination with the ministries of health and industry, has entrusted the app development to the Digital Development Agency (ADD).
The app is set to launch at the end of April. In addition to tracking, the tool will also enable the ministries of health and the interior to identify individuals who made contact with COVID-19 patients over the past 21 days to protect at-risk individuals.
El Othmani cuts salaries
Morocco’s Head of Government Saad Eddine El Othmani announces his decision to deduct three days’ wages from the net salaries of state civil servants, local authorities, and public establishments to be injected into the national COVID-19 fund.
El Othmani says that the decision is in accordance with Decree-Law 2.20.292 on the state of health emergency, and is based on the will of civil servants to contribute to the national solidarity effort.
Rabat-Beijing cooperation
Morocco’s Ambassador to China, Aziz Mekouar, reveals that the Chinese government sent large shipments of medical equipment to Morocco via four separate flights.
The embassy of Morocco in Beijing has mobilized resources for further acquisition of medical equipment and devices from China.
COVID-19 screening diversification
Minister of Health Khalid Ait Taleb announces Morocco’s decision to widen and diversify screening tests for COVID-19 as part of a strategy to prepare for the end of confinement.
The new measure seeks to reduce the waiting time for results and test analyses for possible COVID-19 cases, and help to identify those who have “acquired the immunity after the recovery from coronavirus and to diagnose affected patients.”
The Hassan II Regional Hospital in Agadir is now able to carry out screening tests for the novel coronavirus, using the reference technique for the diagnosis of COVID-19 in accordance with instructions from the health ministry.
In addition to Agadir’s hospital, the ministry allowed six public university hospital centers, two private clinics, and several military hospitals throughout the country to carry out screening tests to detect possible cases in their laboratories.
April 13: King Mohamed VI proposes joint African COVID-19 response
King Mohammed VI holds high-level talks with the President of Cote D’Ivoire Alassane Dramane Ouattara and the President of Senegal Macky Sall on the alarming evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic on the African continent.
The King proposes an African leaders initiative aimed at establishing an operational framework to accompany African countries in their various phases of managing the pandemic.
Face visor production
Trade minister Hafid Elalamy announces Morocco now produces 70,000 reusable face visors per day to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The 100% Moroccan-made visors are reusable for up to one month with regular disinfection.
April 12: Foreign ministry vows to assist Moroccans abroad
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is increasing efforts to assist Moroccan tourists and expatriates around the world. The ministry’s latest action is the instructions to the consulate general of Morocco in Dusseldorf, western Germany, to support the non-resident Moroccan citizens in the region during the period of confinement.
UN domestic violence initiative
Morocco joins the UN’s international initiative to counter domestic violence across the country and worldwide as governments impose lockdowns to counter the spread of the coronavirus. Morocco vows to position the “prevention and remedy” of domestic violence as a key national and global response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
April 11: SMS donations
The Ministry of Economy announces that Moroccan citizens have used text messages to donate over MAD 6.5 million ($650,000) to the country’s COVID-19 response fund. Every text message sent to the telephone number 1919 represents a MAD 10 ($1) donation to the fund.
April 9: Moroccan task force
The Ministry of Education launches a program promoting scientific research in all fields related to COVID-19, with an investment of $1 million. The program aims to ensure researchers are ready and equipped to carry out research projects in all fields related to COVID-19 and eventually find solutions to the crisis and mitigate potential future pandemics.
Stipends for non-RAMED holders
The CVE announces its decision to compensate informal sector workers, who no longer have income due to the suspension of non-essential commercial activities, through the national COVID-19 fund. Non-RAMED holders who work in the informal sector will receive financial aid ranging from $78 to $117 depending on family size.
April 7: Morocco to export masks to Europe
Minister of Industry Moulay Hafid Elalamy says protective face masks produced by Moroccan manufacturers will soon hit European markets to alleviate production pressure in Europe’s hard-hit countries.
External loans
The Finance and Economic Development Committee at the House of Representatives adopts draft decree-law 2.20.320, allowing the government to exceed the ceiling for external funding that was set for the 2020 fiscal year.
The committee’s decision aims to fulfill the country’s need in foreign exchange, given the pandemic’s impact on several sectors.
April 6: Morocco confirms 99 infections in 24 hours, ending the day with 1,120 cases, 81 recoveries, and 80 deaths.
April 6 sees the third-highest increase in cases in one day. The Ministry of Health and independent medical experts urge Morocco’s citizens and residents to wear face masks while outside.
Moroccans should wear cloth masks when outside, while surgical masks and FFP2 masks should be reserved for healthcare personnel, advises a statement from the Moroccan Society of Anesthesia, Analgesia, and Resuscitation (SMAAR), and the Moroccan Society of Emergency Medicine (SMMU).
Casablanca to host major COVID-19 treatment site
Casablanca authorities announce plans for the city to host a temporary field hospital with a capacity of over 700 beds to receive and treat potential COVID-19 patients. Construction requires $450,000 and should only take a few weeks.
Uncapping external loans
Morocco’s government council, chaired by El Othmani, discusses potentially uncapping the country’s external loans, currently limited at approximately $3.1 billion.
Removing the limit on Morocco’s external loans would allow the country to benefit from additional resources from international financial organizations in order to better respond to the COVID-19 crisis.
Postponing water, electric bill payments
The National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) takes additional measures to support customers experiencing financial issues during the COVID-19 crisis: Postponing payments, setting up remote payment facilities, and guaranteeing adequate services.
Food price, quality violations continue
The Ministry of Economy announces the Interministerial Committee in Charge of Monitoring Supply, Prices, and Quality detected 973 violations from March 1 to April 5 at 40,000 retail outlets and storage warehouses in Rabat. The committee has increased operations to prevent merchants from exploiting the COVID-19 crisis and increasing prices.
April 5: COVID-19 cases surge to 1,021, including 70 deaths and 76 recoveries.
Exceptional pardon
King Mohammed VI orders the release of 5,654 detainees in an exceptional royal pardon due to the COVID-19 crisis.
In addition to the royal pardon, the King ordered stronger protection of detainees within prison establishments against the spread of the virus.
Special evacuation flight for Americans
The US announces the preparation of another evacuation flight in favor of its citizens and lawful permanent residents stranded in Morocco. The one-way flight from Casablanca to London will cost $575. Travelers will then have to arrange their own flights from London to the US and prepare any necessary accommodation.
The flight will be the final US evacuation operation if it takes place.
Postponing water, electric bill payments
The National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) takes additional measures to support customers experiencing financial issues during the COVID-19 crisis: Postponing payments, setting up remote payment facilities, and guaranteeing adequate services.
April 2: Morocco confirms 708 cases of COVID-19, including 31 recoveries and 44 deaths.
CNSS stipend
More than 700,000 workers from the private sector are registered to benefit from the monthly stipend allowance issued by the National Social Security Fund (CNSS). Morocco’s Special Fund for COVID-19 will cover employees who are without pay due to the pandemic.
Moroccan inventions
Students from the Moroccan School of Engineering Sciences (EMSI) developed three medical inventions that could help fight the spread of COVID-19. The three inventions are called “African Savior,” “Digital System Medical Respiratory,” and “Moroccan Electronic Perspective.”
FAR field hospital
Morocco’s Royal Armed Forces (FAR) complete the construction of the first field hospital to host COVID-19 patients in Benslimane, near Casablanca, after only six days of work.
Agricultural activity stable
The Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture assures the national market will be supplied with necessary food items as usual throughout the COVID-19 crisis. Agriculture sector operators at the levels production, packaging, processing, and distribution are maintaining a normal pace of activity, the ministry reports.
Telmid Tice
The Ministry of Education announces its “Telmid Tice” website hosting remote classes welcomes 600,000 users every day. The ministry says the total number of educational videos produced since the site’s launch on March 16 has reached 3,000.
Made in Morocco
A group of Moroccan researchers and engineers unveil two “100% Moroccan” devices, an automatic ventilator and an infrared thermometer, to assist the country’s efforts in the fight against the novel coronavirus.
While only prototype models of the inventions have been assembled, mass production should come in the near future.
Autism support
Morocco’s Ministry of Solidarity launches a new support service for individuals with autism during the COVID-19 crisis. The service specializes in communication, active listening, and personal and academic orientation
April 1: Rapid test kits
Lyoubi announces Morocco is set to purchase a total of 100,000 rapid test kids for COVID-19 detection.
March 30: Informal workers aid
Morocco’s Ministry of the Interior launches the registration process for informal workers with suspended activity to benefit from a monthly assistance stipend.
Moroccan workers in the informal sector should send their registration number under the National Medical Assistance Program (RAMED) to the toll-free number 1212, the ministry said in a statement.
March 28: Tax postponement possible
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/03/297835/covid-19-morocco-allows-tax-payment-deferral-for-large-businesses/
Morocco’s General Directorate of Taxes (DGI) announces that Moroccan companies with an annual turnover equal to or higher than MAD 20 million ($2 million) can request a postponement of their tax payment deadlines.
March 25: New hotline
Morocco’s Ministry of Interior announced a new hotline “Allo 300” to receive calls from citizens in the event of an emergency or to report new COVID-19 cases.
March 24: Strict measures
The General Prosecutor’s Office in Morocco urges all judges across the country to implement instructions on the emergency state. The measure seeks to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus in Morocco.
No taxes on donation
The Moroccan Tax System (DGI) announces that contributions and donations to Morocco’s Special Fund for the Management and Response to COVID-19 are not subject to taxes.
March 23: Morocco votes to criminalize state of emergency violations
A committee for the Ministry of Interior within the House of Representatives unanimously votes for draft decree Law 2.20.292 to penalize violators of the state of emergency.
Economic Monitoring Committee created
https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2020/04/morocco-government-and-institution-measures-in-response-to-covid.html
Morocco’s new Economic Monitoring Committee, (CVE) is created to mitigate the economic and social impacts of the pandemic. It is chaired by the Minister of Economy, Finance and Administrative Reform and includes representatives from the public and private sectors.
March 22: Defiance of state of emergency
Videos surface of groups of people in Tangier, Tetouan, Fez, and Sale taking to the streets the night before, defying the state of emergency measures. The demonstrators shout “Allahu akbar” (God is great) and chant religious slogans.
In response, Moroccans call upon authorities to arrest anyone involved in undermining the country’s preventive measures.
RAM suspends domestic flights
Morocco’s national carrier, Royal Air Maroc (RAM), suspends all domestic flights until further notice.
Law 2.20.292
The Ministry of Interior prepares a draft decree seeking to impose legal actions against anyone who defies the state of emergency. The government council approves the law later in the day.
Anyone who defies the state of emergency and the orders of Moroccan authorities will receive a sentence ranging from one to three months in prison and pay a fine ranging from MAD 300 to 1,300 ($30 to $132).
State of emergency effective until April 20
Morocco’s government announces its plans to extend the state of emergency until April 20 to ensure the safety of citizens and residents. The government also moves to prohibit people from leaving their homes except for emergency cases and to ban all social gatherings.
Repatriation flights end
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces that there will be no more repatriation flights for international tourists after March 22, until further notice.
King mobilizes military
King Mohammed VI mobilizes the military to strengthen Morocco’s medical infrastructure dedicated to the response to and management of the coronavirus pandemic.
The King calls on military officials to ensure that “military medicine takes part jointly with its civilian counterpart in the delicate mission of fighting the pandemic,” adding that civil and military doctors must work “in harmony and intelligence.”
March 21: Suspension of intercity buses
The Ministry of Interior announces the suspension of all intercity buses. Following the suspension of buses, traveling between cities will only be possible via trains or private vehicles, and travelers will have to undergo checks from the authorities and provide justifications for their travel.
March 20: Exceptional movement permits
The Interior Ministry clarifies that Moroccan citizens and residents must fill out an “exceptional movement permit” and have it signed by local authorities before leaving their homes to work, buy groceries and medicine, or receive medical care.
Morocco maintains ‘sufficient’ stocks of essentials
The Ministry of Industry assures that Moroccan markets have sufficient quantities for the coming months and that sales outlets and supermarkets will remain open for citizens to purchase essential goods during the state of emergency.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Energy affirms that the country has sufficient stock of gas cylinders to meet the national need for the next 40 days.
State of emergency enters into force
Morocco’s state of emergency comes into effect at 6 p.m. until further notice.
Everyone in Morocco must comply with the measures under the state of emergency or face penalty of sanctions provided for in the Criminal Code, the Ministry of Interior warned.
Morocco’s public forces, police, Royal Gendarmerie, and military will enforce the measures firmly and responsibly against anyone in public spaces.
March 19: With 63 cases and two recoveries, Morocco declares a state of emergency.
The health ministry issues press release in the morning, confirming four new cases, bringing the total to 58.
The ministry later announces three more cases to bring the total to 61. The total increases to 63 soon after.
COVID-19: Morocco to Assist Workers With Monthly Stipend
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/03/296814/covid-19-morocco-to-assist-workers-with-monthly-stipend/
Morocco’s national fund for the fight against the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) is set to pay MAD 2,000 ($203) to all employees affected by the epidemic, announced Minister of Economy Mohamed Benchaaboun today, March 19.
The stipend will cover all the employees registered in the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) and whose pays will be suspended because of the COVID-19 epidemic. The National Economic Monitoring Committee, chaired by Benchaaboun, implemented a series of measures to mitigate the economic damage of the pandemic. The measures concern three main axes: Employees, small and medium businesses, and taxes.
Positive reactions
Head of Government Saad Eddine El Othmani applauds Moroccans’ respect for the measures in place to counter the novel coronavirus.
Lockdown
Morocco’s Ministry of Interior issues a press release to declare a state of emergency. The decision will come into effect starting Friday, March 20.
The ministry tells citizens that they cannot go out to public spaces without authorization from local authorities.
Authorities will provide permission for people who work in necessary sectors, such as supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, gas stations, medical clinics, telecommunications, and essential freelance activities.
March 18: Restrictions on movement
The Ministries of Health and Interior ask citizens to limit their movement to their living space unless going into the public space is absolutely necessary. The measure seeks to clamp down the spread of the virus.
March 17: King’s assessment
King Mohammed VI chairs a committee devoted to following up on the preventive measures against the spread of COVID-19 in Morocco.
A group of banks contributes to the special fund, including Banque Populaire, which adds MAD 1 billion to the initial fund launched by the King.
In addition to banking institutions, Moroccan MPs and other government officials announce contributions to the Special Fund for the Management and Response to COVID-19.
March 16: Mosques close
With the spread of the virus, Morocco announces stricter measures. Mosque-goers are instructed to pray at home as all mosques nationwide will close their doors.
The decision affects not only Friday prayers but all five daily prayers.
More closures
Morocco closes coffee shops, restaurants, hammams, gyms, and clubs to limit virus proliferation.
Disinfection
Authorities implement hygienic measures for public spaces and transport. Workers in Morocco are disinfecting public transport including trams, buses, and taxis as a preventive measure against the spread of the novel coronavirus.
March 15: Government suspends all international flights.
The number of COVID-19 cases jumps to 28. Morocco’s 11 new cases originated in Spain (6), France (2), Italy (2) and Austria (1), the Ministry of Health clarifies in a press release.
Minister of Transport Abdelkader Amara is among the patients. The infection of Amara urges the government to ask all of its members to undergo COVID-19 tests. All of them test negative.
Suspending all international flights
Morocco suspends all international flights. The move angers some tourists who share videos expressing concerns. Morocco reassures citizens that special flights will repatriate them.
King Mohammed VI’s Special Fund
King Mohammed VI orders the creation of the Special Fund for the Management and Response to COVID-19, initially comprising MAD 10 billion (over $1 billion).
March 12: Morocco remains in the first stage of a COVID-19 outbreak.
Head of Government El Othmani El Othmani addresses citizens after a weekly government council, asking Moroccans to avoid overreacting and not to panic amid the global pandemic.
The head of government says the outbreak in Morocco is still in the first stage, emphasizing that necessary measures will be taken “in due time.”
March 11: Suspension of sea routes with Italy.
The increase of cases in Italy prompts Moroccan authorities to suspend sea routes with the European country, which is the first European country to declare an outbreak.
The decision is in line with the government’s directives to prevent the spread of COVID-19, according to the merchant navy at the Moroccan Ministry of Transport and Logistics Directorate.
March 8: Morocco suspends flights to Italian cities.
Morocco’s government decides to tighten measures against the pandemic, suspending flights to Milan and Venice.
The decision comes into effect the same day. The announcement follows the rapid surge of confirmed cases in Italy.
March 4: The first COVID-19 case triggers a wave of fake news.
Morocco’s Ministry of Interior releases a statement calling on citizens to stay alert in an effort to counter the fake news already circulating online.
“Stay vigilant in the face of the dissemination of false and fictitious information attributed to official parties through new technology techniques,” the ministry says.
March 3: Information about the new case.
In a morning press briefing, Morocco’s Minister of Health Khalid addresses the press to provide more details about the first confirmed case. During his talk with the press, the minister says the 39-year-old patient made contact with 104 people during his flight, including crew members. Most of the people he has been in contact with in Morocco are in Casablanca and El Jadida. Some of them, however, have traveled to other regions such as Ouarzazate. All of these people have been identified, and none exhibit symptoms of the virus.
March 2: COVID-19 reaches Morocco.
Moroccan health authorities announce the country’s first novel coronavirus case: A Moroccan man arrived from Italy in February, importing the virus. The statement asks citizens not to worry, as the man’s health was stable.
Canceling SIAM
The first COVID-19 case confirmed in Morocco prompts authorities to take preventive measures against the proliferation of the pandemic. After the first case announcement, the organizers of Morocco’s International Agricultural Exhibition (SIAM) announce their decision to cancel the 2020 event as part of the government’s preventive measures.
The 15th SIAM was scheduled to take place in Meknes from April 14 to 19. The Ministry of Agriculture and the SIAM Association announces the decision through a press release.
Ban on mask export
Morocco imposes an export license for medical protective masks, banning their export without special authorization from the ministry.
The measure follows several attempts to smuggle medical masks in foreign countries.
Impact on Africa
IFC-led consortium funds building of new hospitals in North Africa
https://saudigazette.com.sa/article/595051/BUSINESS/IFC-led-consortium-funds-building-of-new-hospitals-in-North-Africa
Humania has successfully closed over $100 million equity raise for its North Africa healthcare platform with investments coming from the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Danish Sustainable Development Goals Investment Fund K/S managed by the Investment Fund For Developing Countries (IFU) and Société De Promotion Et Participation Pour La Coopération Economique (Proparco) along with Bait Al Batterjee (BAB) group to expand the Saudi German Hospital network in Egypt and Morocco.
Africa Loses $79 Billion Annually Due to Youth Unemployment
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305487/africa-loses-79-billion-annually-due-to-youth-unemployment/
Africa loses $79 billion of potential revenue every year because of youth unemployment, said the Secretary Executive of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Vera Songwe. Approximately 34% of African population is aged 15 to 34, but most of Africa’s youth are unemployed, Songwe added during a videoconference discussion about African youth leaders on June 9. “We are not a continent that can afford to lose $79 billion a year, so we need to find a way to employ ourselves and to harness the incredible innovation of African youth,” she said.
How North Africa is Responding to COVID-19
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302218/how-north-africa-is-responding-to-covid-19/
UN officials state that the COVID-19 pandemic will probably kill at least 300,000 people in Africa and drive nearly 130 million into poverty and famine. They have also underscored that the continent suffers from a dire shortage of hospital beds and ventilators to deal with this pandemic. In North Africa, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases so far has been limited, despite the region’s proximity to Europe. As of May 10, Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco had a total of 12,818 cases and 735 deaths. Algeria has had the most deaths, with 502, followed by Morocco with 188, and Tunisia with 45 deaths, according to John Hopkins University Center.
Africa needs to be wary of the unintended consequences with a moratorium on its debt
https://qz.com/africa/1855578/africa-needs-to-be-wary-of-consequences-of-debt-moratorium/
Africa is home to 41 of the International Monetary Fund’s 59 Low income countries. These are more structurally vulnerable to external shocks such as Covid-19. The pandemic is affecting economies as governments implement increasingly aggressive lockdown procedures to stem the rate of the spread of the virus. It is also straining the continent’s generally weak national health systems. At the same time the global economic slowdown triggered by the pandemic is taking a toll on key commodity sectors and tourism. These are significant revenue earners for many countries across the region.
SSA to hit first recession in 25 years, finds report
https://www.africaglobalfunds.com/news/funds/markets-and-industry-news/ssa-to-hit-first-recession-in-25-years-finds-report/
Growth in Sub-Saharan Africa has been significantly impacted by the ongoing Coronavirus outbreak and is forecast to fall sharply from 2.4% in 2019 to -2.1 to -5.1% in 2020, the first recession in the region over the past 25 years, according to the latest Africa’s Pulse, the World Bank’s economic update for the region. “The COVID-19 pandemic is testing the limits of societies and economies across the world, and African countries are likely to be hit particularly hard,” said Hafez Ghanem, World Bank Vice President for Africa.
The economic resilience of African countries offers a template for growth in a post-Covid-19 era
https://qz.com/africa/1855850/africas-economic-resilience-will-rebound-growth-post-covid-19/
As Africa braces for a head-on collision with coronavirus with the World Bank announcing its first recession in 25 years, the continent can eventually look forward to many post-Covid-19 recovery and growth narratives. Public and private leaders should draw on past experiences to face the economic challenges of Covid-19. In my book Unlocking Africa’s Business Potential, I examine the performance of African economies and explore private sector development opportunities in eight sectors that will foster economic growth and diversification, job creation, and improved general welfare, all of which are critical for increasing economic resilience.
Coronavirus in Africa: an opportunity for innovative investment
https://www.theafricareport.com/27782/coronavirus-in-africa-an-opportunity-for-innovative-investment/
The last couple months can only be characterized as unprecedented, as many countries and markets went from indifference of the pandemic to visible panic. In many emerging markets, the flight of capital coupled with slowed investments has further complicated fragile situations. Yet these unexpected and difficult times still present opportunity for investment. The question is more so whether an opportunity is a product of the current time or will it be long-lasting. To better answer this, let’s look at the following three sectors that can easily expect to survive and even thrive as African markets continue to navigate and prepare for a post-COVID-19 world.
Preparedness and vulnerability of African countries against importations of COVID-19: a modelling study
https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(20)30411-6/fulltext
The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic has spread from China to 25 countries. Local cycles of transmission have already occurred in 12 countries after case importation. In Africa, Egypt has so far confirmed one case. The management and control of COVID-19 importations heavily rely on a country’s health capacity. Here we evaluate the preparedness and vulnerability of African countries against their risk of importation of COVID-19.
Where to invest in Africa in the face of COVID-19
https://africanbusinessmagazine.com/sectors/technology/where-to-invest-in-africa-in-the-face-of-covid-19/
Back in January, Africa’s economic outlook for the year was bright. African Development Bank projections predicted 3.9% growth in 2020 and 4.1% in 2021. But then, coronavirus upended the global economy. Less than two months later, with only 61 confirmed Covid-19 cases in Africa, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) revised the continent’s growth projections downwards to 2%. Last week, The World Bank said that Africa is headed towards its first recession in 25 years.. These gloomy figures can largely be attributed to disrupted value chains, reduction in FDI and remittances, and direct hits to sectors such as tourism and oil.
Impact investing is critical for sustainable and inclusive development in Africa
https://www.iol.co.za/business-report/opinion/impact-investing-is-critical-for-sustainable-and-inclusive-development-in-africa-47879880
There is no doubt that the impact of coronavirus on the economy will be huge. Already some countries have announced stimulus packages to get their economies back on the feet. There has never been an opportune time to invest for inclusive development than in this epoch of our lives. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), three out of four people on the African continent live in poor conditions, while the continent accounts for half of the world’s poorest. Furthermore, the continent is home to 24 classified low income countries, according to World Bank data. Africa has significant developmental challenges that include poverty, climate change, poor levels of education and healthcare, financial exclusion and food security; to name a few.
Private-Equity Firms Stand to Get Direct U.S. Development Investments
https://www.wsj.com/articles/private-equity-firms-stand-to-get-direct-u-s-development-investments-11589281200
A federal agency that helps finance development projects in underserved parts of the world plans to begin committing capital—not just loans—to private-equity firms later this year. Staff members of the recently created U.S. International Development Finance Corp. plan to recommend several cash commitments to private-equity funds at a June meeting of the agency’s board of directors. The investments are subject to approval by the directors.
Strategies for coping with the health and economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa
https://www.brookings.edu/blog/africa-in-focus/2020/03/18/strategies-for-coping-with-the-health-and-economic-effects-of-the-covid-19-pandemic-in-africa/
The World Health Organization (WHO)’s March 11 recognition of COVID-19 as a global pandemic has removed any doubt about the threat that the virus poses to every country in the world. The virus has now been detected in 152 countries, with more than 180,000 infected and more than 7,000 killed. Though Africa remains one of the regions with the fewest cases, the number of countries affected has increased over the past week. As of this writing, nearly 450 cases have been reported in 30 countries, concentrated in northern Africa and South Africa, with 10 deaths reported.
Tackling COVID-19 in Africa
https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/middle-east-and-africa/tackling-covid-19-in-africa
The COVID-19 pandemic is primarily a health crisis and a human tragedy, but it also has far-reaching economic ramifications. In Africa, it is already disrupting millions of people’s livelihoods, with disproportionate impact on poor households and small and informal businesses—and the pace of this disruption is likely to accelerate in the weeks ahead. No country or community is exempt; in oil-exporting countries, COVID-related challenges are compounded by the collapse of the oil price. Across the continent, leaders in the public, private, and development sectors are already taking decisive action—both to save lives and to protect households, businesses, and national economies from the fallout of the pandemic.
COVID-19 Poses Formidable Threat for Fragile States in the Middle East and North Africa
https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2020/05/13/na051320-covid-19-poses-formidable-threat-for-fragile-states-in-the-middle-east-and-north-africa
COVID-19 will trigger a sharp drop in household incomes in Middle East and North African (MENA) countries that are fragile and in conflict situations, such as Afghanistan, Djibouti, Iraq, Lebanon, Sudan, and Somalia. As export earnings suffer and social distancing reduces domestic activity, incomes will decline—especially for informal and low-skilled workers, including within large internally displaced populations and refugees. Remittances—which represent 14 percent of GDP in fragile countries across MENA and serve as a lifeline for many households—are also expected to tumble by 20 percent as global incomes fall.
Finding Africa’s path: Shaping bold solutions to save lives and livelihoods in the COVID-19 crisis
https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/McKinsey/Featured
After two decades of steady economic progress, the pandemic could tip Africa into its first recession in 25 years. By our analysis, as many as one-third of all jobs in Africa could be affected. Africa’s high degree of informality and relatively low levels of social protection exacerbate the risk. In this article, we present new analysis that underlines the urgency of action required to save lives and safeguard livelihoods in Africa. We also suggest specific approaches that governments, development institutions, and business can take to act decisively on both fronts. These insights build on our recent article “Tackling COVID-19 in Africa: An unfolding health and economic crisis that demands bold action”.
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Impact on Morocco
AfDB: Morocco’s GDP to Return to 4% Growth with Resumed Activities in 2021
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/308639/afdb-moroccos-gdp-to-return-to-4-growth-with-resumed-activities-in-2021/
The African Development Bank (AfDB) estimates Morocco’s GDP growth to return to 4% on the assumption that economic activities will fully return to normal next year.The bank forecasts that budget and account deficits will improve from 4.8% to 5.3% and from 4.2 % to 5.3% of GDP, respectively, the report said in its annual report, “African Economic Outlook 2020.”
Royal Air Maroc Dumping Nearly Half Of 787 Fleet
https://onemileatatime.com/royal-air-maroc-dumping-787-fleet/
Like many airlines around the globe, Royal Air Maroc is downsizing significantly. The airline will lay off 30% of employees and get rid of 20 planes. These updates come based on a July 2 meeting between the company’s management, staff representatives, and the National Air Transport Federation (FNTA). The airline has been losing over $100 million per month since the pandemic brought global aviation to a standstill in March.
BAM: Industrial Activity Improving as Morocco Eases COVID-19 Measures
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/307585/bam-industrial-activity-improving-as-morocco-eases-covid-19-measures/
Bank Al Maghrib announced an improvement in Morocco’s industrial activities for May following a few months of decline during the COVID-19 crisis.
The bank said on July 2 that industrial production increased while the capacity utilization rate (TUC) stood at 56% in May, compared to 47% in April. The increase is due to the positive points secured at industrial levels, including mechanical and metallurgical production, as well as chemistry and parachemistry.
Morocco’s Aeronautic Sector registers a Severe Slowdown, says GIMAS President
“The aeronautic sector in Morocco is facing a wave of international orders postponements. The majority of our clients are either closing factories abroad or reducing the level of their activity. Export figures released by the Morocco Exchange Office (OC) at the end of April show a 33.9% drop in the sector turnover,” said Karim Cheikh, president of the Moroccan Aeronautics and Space Industries Group (GIMAS).The slowdown in the activity of international aircraft manufacturers has had a significant impact on the global production chain, including in Morocco. This slowdown is reflected in the sharp drop in operational activity in the factories of major manufacturers and international contractors. Airbus has announced that it will reduce its production rate by 30 to 40% with a somewhat difficult recovery in factories in Europe, while Boeing, already in difficulty before the appearance of the Covid-19, is also going through a fairly difficult phase.
World Bank Ranks Morocco 53 Worldwide in Ease of Doing Business
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305886/world-bank-ranks-morocco-53-worldwide-in-ease-of-doing-business/
The World Bank Group has issued its “Doing Business” report for 2020, evaluating the regulations enhancing and constraining business activities in 190 countries. One-hundred-twenty-eight Moroccan private and public institutions joined firms and institutions worldwide who filed questionnaires to support the assessment.. “Doing Business presents quantitative indicators on business regulations and the protection of property rights that can be compared across 190 economies,” the report explains. Data in “Doing Business 2020” are current as of May 1, 2019.
Fitch Ratings: Morocco Among 4 MENA Economies Hardest Hit by COVID-19
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305090/fitch-ratings-morocco-among-4-mena-economies-hardest-hit-by-covid-19/
According to Fitch Ratings, a US-based international credit ratings agency, Morocco is among four of the fourteen Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries that have recently taken a hard hit to public and external finances and growth. The downfall comes as one of the many ways COVID-19 and the fall of oil prices have mangled much of the world’s economy. In addition to Morocco, Fitch also lists Iraq, Jordan, and Oman as being seriously shaken by increasing debt.
Europe eyes Morocco as suitable spot for post-covid-19 pandemic investment
https://northafricapost.com/41453-europe-eyes-morocco-as-suitable-spot-for-post-covid-19-pandemic-investment.html
European investors and business people are mulling plans to relocate their companies to the kingdom of Morocco, which has emerged as an appropriate alternative to the Asian market, French Le Monde daily reports. The kingdom, the media notes, boasts numerous reasons, which position it as the suitable ground for company relocation and investment, after the ongoing covid-19 pandemic.
Morocco’s Seasonal Agricultural Exports Gross MAD 17.5 Billion
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/304628/moroccos-seasonal-agricultural-exports-gross-mad-17-5-billion/
Moroccan Minister of Agriculture Aziz Akhannouch announced the country’s exports of fruits and vegetables grossed a total of MAD 17.5 billion ($1.7 billion) in the period between september 2019 and May 2020. The minister’s declaration took place during an oral question session at the House of Representatives on June 1. Akhannouch highlighted during the session the “great performances” that national agriculture achieved despite the COVID-19 crisis and low levels of precipitation. The official said that the Moroccan agriculture industry successfully supplied national and international markets with quality products.
COVID-19: Fitch Ratings Downgrades Outlooks for 3 Moroccan Banks
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303030/covid-19-fitch-ratings-downgrades-outlooks-for-3-moroccan-banks/
“International ratings agency Fitch Ratings has downgraded three Moroccan banks’ outlooks from “stable” to “negative.” The study included Attijariwafa Bank (AWB), BMCE Bank of Africa (BOA) and Credit Immobilier et Hotelier (CIH). The evaluations follow Fitch Ratings’ latest revision of Morocco’s outlook to “negative” from “stable” on April 28, due to the coronavirus crisis.”
Tourism Minister: COVID-19 Crisis Shuttered 87% of Moroccan Hotels
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/301809/tourism-minister-covid-19-crisis-shuttered-87-of-moroccan-hotels/
The Moroccan Minister of Tourism Nadia Fettah Alaoui declared earlier this week that 87% of hotels in Morocco have closed due to the COVID-19 crisis. The minister announced on May 5 the impacts of the pandemic on Morocco’s tourism sector during a meeting of the Productive Sectors Committee at the House of Representatives.
How Making IMF World’s Centralized Bank Could Affect Morocco
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302878/how-making-imf-worlds-centralized-bank-could-affect-morocco/
The current health crisis has revealed the importance of coordination on a global level. COVID-19 is demonstrating that the efforts of one government can affect the health of citizens on the other side of the globe, as well as the inefficiency of national central banks’ responses. Times of deep crisis may be turned into times of deep reform. Some world leaders are capitalizing on the opportunity, raising their voices to call for creating a truly global, centralized, multilateral fiscal body. Transforming the International Monetary Fund (IMF) appears the leading way to achieve centralization.
Morocco’s Central Bank Calls For Suspension of Dividend Distribution
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302364/moroccos-central-bank-calls-for-suspension-of-dividend-distribution/
Morocco’s central bank, Bank Al-Maghrib, has called on credit institutions to suspend all distribution of dividends, or shareholder profits, for the 2019 financial year until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In a press release, Bank Al-Maghrib said credit institutions must strengthen their role in financing the economy during the crisis. Credit institutions must also retain sufficient capital to face the crisis and preserve their ability to provide financing. The Moroccan central bank adopted on March 29 a set of monetary and prudential measures to facilitate access to bank credit for the benefit of both households and businesses. The measures also assist financial institutions in Morocco, focusing on their levels of liquidity, equity, and solvency.
Fitch Revises Morocco’s Outlook to Negative, Affirms at ‘BBB-‘
https://www.fitchratings.com/research/sovereigns/fitch-revises-morocco-outlook-to-negative-affirms-at-bbb-28-04-2020
The Negative Outlook reflects the severe hit to the Moroccan economy from the coronavirus pandemic shock, which will cause the sharpest GDP contraction in 25 years, and prompt a marked increase in Morocco’s external and fiscal deficits and debt ratios. The magnitude of the shock will raise downside risks to the sovereign’s credit profile, despite a proactive policy response in line with the authorities’ long-standing commitment to prudent economic policies.
Together for a Strong Rebound
1. Morocco
A Model to Achieve the Model for Development in Morocco
https://www.libyanexpress.com/a-model-to-achieve-the-model-for-development-in-morocco/
Municipalities are to create development plans made from the participation of all communities and groups. Environmental management is understood to integrate the local people. Agricultural programs seek to achieve the value-chain with communities of small landholders. Morocco is committed to the goals of decentralization, renewable energy, liberation of women and youth from social and economic hindrances, and well-established southern unity. Multicultural preservation is a non-equivocal national choice.
BMW signs Morocco cobalt supply deal
https://www.miningmagazine.com/supply-chain-management/news/1390690/bmw-signs-morocco-cobalt-supply-deal
The Munich-based automotive group says the five-year supply contract with the Moroccan mining company will cover about a fifth of its cobalt needs for the fifth generation of its electric drive trains, with the remainder to come from Australia. “Cobalt is an important raw material for electromobility. By signing this supply contract with Managem today, we are continuing to secure our raw material needs for battery cells,” said BMW purchasing manager Andreas Wendt. “We are systematically driving electrification of our vehicle fleet. By 2023, we aim to have 25 electrified models in our line-up – more than half of them fully-electric. Our need for raw materials will increase in line with this. For cobalt alone, we expect our needs to roughly triple by 2025.”
Renewable Energy Could Produce 96% of Electricity in Morocco by 2050
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/309093/renewable-energy-could-produce-96-of-electricity-in-morocco-by-2050/
Morocco has the potential to produce 96% of its electricity using renewable energy by 2050, announced a report from Morocco’s Economic, Social, and Environmental Council (CESE). CESE presented the report titled “Accelerating the Energy Transition for Morocco’s Green Growth” during a videoconference on Thursday, July 9. The report collected opinions from more than 60 experts from the various national organizations and companies working in the energy sector and developed a series of recommendations for Morocco to accelerate its energy transition.
Morocco Reportedly Produces 14 Million Face Masks Per Day
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/309021/morocco-reportedly-produces-14-million-face-masks-per-day/
Morocco’s daily production of face masks has exceeded 14 million, local business newspaper L’Economiste reported. According to the newspaper, “more than 300 Moroccan factories possess the ‘Imanor’ certification to produce face masks.” The figure represents the objective that Morocco’s Minister of Industry, Moulay Hafid Elalamy, had set out in early March when he gave directives to local textile companies to exclusively manufacture protective medical gear. “Today, the production capacity is 10 million units per day for single-use face masks and 4 million for reusable masks,” L’Economiste reported, citing a source from the Ministry of Industry.
Morocco to Expand Local Industry, Save $4.5 Billion in Imports
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/308459/morocco-to-expand-local-industry-save-4-5-billion-in-imports/
In the coming years, Morocco could save MAD 43 billion ($4.45 billion) by strengthening its domestic manufacturing capacity and reducing imports, Minister of Industry Moulay Hafid Elalamy announced Monday. “We import MAD 43 billion of products that could be made in Morocco in the upcoming years,” Elalamy said during a parliamentary session at the House of Representatives on July 6. According to the minister, with an investment of MAD 22 billion ($2.28 billion), Moroccan industry can meet the domestic demand for some imported products, significantly reducing Morocco’s foreign expenses.
Morocco, Germany to Boost Business, Investment Opportunities
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/308255/morocco-germany-to-boost-business-investment-opportunities/
The Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency (AMDIE) and the Ghorfa Arab-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry signed an agreement Tuesday to further strengthen business and investment opportunities between Morocco and Germany. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) took place via video conference on July 7. The Director-General of AMDIE, Hicham Boudraa, and the Secretary-General of the Ghorfa, Abdelaziz Al Mikhlafi, added their signatures to the document in the presence of Morocco’s Ambassador to Germany, Zohour Alaoui.
How Credit Agricole Continues to Assist Morocco’s Farmers
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/307676/how-credit-agricole-continues-to-assist-moroccos-farmers/
Agricultural credit unions provide financial assistance for agricultural development and housing projects for rural communities. In Morocco, where upwards of 40% of the population is agriculturally dependent, these institutions are vital for the growth of the community. The most well known of these credit unions is Credit Agricole of Morocco Group (GCAM), a French bank operating in more than 50 countries. In 2017, GCAM was not only recognized as the best credit union in Morocco, but was named the best development finance institutions in Africa by the Association of African Development Finance Institutions (AADFI). Since the founding of Credit Agricole in Morocco in 1961, the bank “has been committed to agriculture and socio–economic development in rural areas.”
Morocco’s Experience With COVID-19, Distance Learning, and Fragility
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/307157/moroccos-experience-with-covid-19-distance-learning-and-fragility/
The coronavirus emerged as a sudden, multidimensional crisis that has changed all aspects of life. Within the new normal, protecting human life has become more important than anything else. The shift comes with behavioral necessities such as wearing masks, frequently washing our hands, and maintaining social distance. However, the most important element of necessary behavioral changes in the new normal is to work and study from home. Declared a public health emergency at the international level, authorities took rapid “coronian” as an emergency strategy to face the COVID-19 crisis. The lockdown measure has affected many aspects of life, rendering many elements of day-to-day routines meaningless and delaying most activities.
Moroccan, French Agencies Partner to Develop National Ports
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/307597/moroccan-french-agencies-partner-to-develop-national-ports/
Morocco’s National Ports Agency (ANP) signed a loan agreement of MAD 1.1 billion ($113 million) and a Technical Assistance Grant (TAG) of MAD 8.7 million ($897,000) on Thursday with the French Development Agency (AFD). The French ambassador to Morocco, Helene Le Gal, attended the signing ceremony. The contract seeks to improve the competitiveness of the ports in a way that will boost their “resilience to climate change effects and strengthen their urban integration,” said both institutions in a joint press release shared with state-run Maghreb Arab Press (MAP).
Ecostart call for projects is launched for green entrepreneurship in Morocco
https://www.energymixreport.com/ecostart-call-for-projects-is-launched-for-green-entrepreneurship-in-morocco/
The Ecostart call for projects to support start-ups in the green and digital economy is launched. The initiative is supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the German international development cooperation agency. Interested project promoters have until July 7, 2020 to apply.
The Ecostart call for projects is launched in Morocco. The aim of this competition is to highlight and support auto-entrepreneurs, micro-enterprises, start-ups and researchers who are working towards a green economy. Ecostart is supported by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), the German international development cooperation agency, as part of its Taahil Al Mokawalat programme (TAM III).
Renewable Energy Could Produce 96% of Electricity in Morocco by 2050
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/07/309093/renewable-energy-could-produce-96-of-electricity-in-morocco-by-2050/
Morocco has the potential to produce 96% of its electricity using renewable energy by 2050, announced a report from Morocco’s Economic, Social, and Environmental Council (CESE). CESE presented the report titled “Accelerating the Energy Transition for Morocco’s Green Growth” during a videoconference on Thursday, July 9. The report collected opinions from more than 60 experts from the various national organizations and companies working in the energy sector and developed a series of recommendations for Morocco to accelerate its energy transition. According to the report, Morocco has great potential in terms of renewable energies. The potential needs to be exploited through accelerating the energy transition, a move that could position Morocco as a global leader in clean energy.
Huawei Supports ICT Education in Morocco
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/306854/huawei-supports-ict-education-in-morocco/
Moroccan Minister of Education Saaid Amzazi chaired a progress update meeting on Monday regarding cooperative efforts between the ministry and Huawei Technologies to enhance the quality of Morocco’s ICT education. Amzazi held the meeting with the General Director of Huawei, Zhao Guohui, on June 22 in Rabat. The meeting reviewed the 14 ICT Academies that Huawei had established in Moroccan universities, training over 700 students. According to Huawei, the ICT Academy program encourages Moroccan students to become Huawei certified for global industry chains.
The Fast-Food Sector resumes Activity after more than two months of closure
On May 28th, 2020, the ministry of commerce and industry issued a communiqué to authorize the fast- food sector to gradually resume its activities starting May 29th. The fast- food sector which represent 15% of the retail business has been closed since March 22nd, 2020 and has experienced a loss of at least 33% of its revenues since closure
CNT Outlines Recovery Plan for Morocco’s Tourism Industry https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305534/cnt-outlines-recovery-plan-for-moroccos-tourism-industry/
The secretary-general of the National Tourism Confederation (CNT), Wissal El Gharbaoui, declared that ensuring the survival of 11,000 tourism businesses and preserving employment for their personnel is at the center of the confederation’s priorities. The CNT has developed a scenario based on three axes for the recovery of the severely-impacted tourist activity, namely saving businesses, preserving jobs, and a strong and effective recovery strategy, El Gharbaoui told state-owned Maghreb Arab Press (MAP).
Minister: Green Hydrogen Will Speed Up Morocco’s Energy Transition
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305633/minister-green-hydrogen-will-speed-up-moroccos-energy-transition/
Morocco’s Minister of Energy, Mining, and Environment, Aziz Rabbah, said on Friday the new agreement with Germany on the development of the green hydrogen sector will help accelerate Morocco’s transition to renewable energy. “Cooperation in the ‘Power to X’ sector, which is part of the Moroccan-German energy partnership, will contribute to the acceleration of the national energy transition and the implementation of Morocco’s climate commitments,” Rabbah told reporters on June 12 in Rabat.
Minister: Morocco’s Economic Recovery Will Be Faster Than Expected
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/305409/minister-moroccos-economic-recovery-will-be-faster-than-expected/
The Moroccan Minister of Industry Moulay Hafid Elalamy declared on Tuesday that the economic recovery in Morocco post-COVID-19 activity suspensions will be faster than was expected a month ago. The minister made the announcement before the Productive Sectors Commission at the House of Representatives on June 9. The meeting took place to study five requests by parliamentary groups concerning the department’s strategy. Based on indicators by Standard & Poor’s, Elalamy revealed that Moroccan markets are claiming back their pre-COVID-19 position, noting a decrease of 20% on industrial transactions, against the 30% that was expected in May.
Morocco’s Agricultural, Fisheries Sectors Adapt to COVID-19 Crisis
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/304415/moroccos-agricultural-fisheries-sectors-adapt-to-covid-19-crisis/
The Ministry of Agriculture in Morocco announced on May 29 a new protocol to assist the agricultural and fisheries sectors as they adjust to the new conditions the COVID-19 crisis has established. The first stage of the protocol concerns all professionals and operators in the agricultural and fisheries sectors. It outlines the procedures they must adopt at the level of agricultural holdings; upgrading, conditioning, and processing units for agricultural products; units for the processing and upgrading of fishery products; industrial units for canned fish; and all supply chains of the two sectors, including staff transport.
Marrakech Looks Towards Domestic Tourism to Revive Economy
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/304125/marrakech-looks-towards-domestic-tourism-to-revive-economy/
The Municipal Council of Marrakech and tourism professionals held a meeting today to discuss the revival of the tourist sector in the ochre city after the COVID-19 pandemic, and ultimately agreed to focus on promoting domestic tourism.The meeting aimed to highlight and discuss the current situation of the tourism sector, examine and identify key challenges, and understand the aspirations and expectations of industry professionals.Participants included hoteliers, restaurateurs, tourist guides, and managers of travel agencies.
Morocco Adopts Legislation to Attract Investment in Mining
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/06/304531/morocco-adopts-legislation-to-attract-investment-in-mining/
Morocco’s Government Council approved on Thursday, May 28 a draft decree that aims to improve the performance of the mining sector and attract national and foreign investment. The Moroccan Minister of Energy and Mining, Aziz Rabbah presented to the council Draft Decree No. 2.18.442, which falls within the framework for the restructuring of artisanal mining activity, said the ministry in a press release on May 30. The draft mainly aims to establish judicial mechanisms to enhance the attractiveness of national and foreign investments in the mining sector in the region of Tafilalet and Figuig, eastern Morocco.
Morocco Donates €3 Million to EU’s ‘Coronavirus Global Response’
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/304233/morocco-donates-e3-million-to-eus-coronavirus-global-response/
Morocco has contributed €3 million to the European Commission’s “Coronavirus Global Response” campaign, aiming for universal access to affordable COVID-19 vaccines, treatment, and testing. The contribution is in line with Morocco’s willingness to strengthen its cooperation with the EU, especially in the fields of scientific research and innovation, a press release from Morocco’s Ministry of National Education announced on May 29. Morocco’s donation also represents the country’s participation in the joint international efforts to mitigate the economic, social, and psychological impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the press release added.
Economic Monitoring Committee Announces Morocco’s Recovery Plan
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303467/economic-monitoring-committee-announces-moroccos-recovery-plan/
Morocco’s Economic Monitoring Committee (CVE) has launched a series of new measures to help relaunch the Moroccan economy after the COVID-19 crisis. The committee held its eighth meeting on Thursday, May 21.The main solution the committee implemented to support Moroccan businesses recover is a loan guarantee plan, financed by the state treasury. The system will cover all Moroccan companies, both public and private, that sustained damage during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Morocco’s Tourism Transport Federation Prepares for Re-Opening
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303466/moroccos-tourism-transport-federation-prepares-for-re-opening/
The National Federation of Tourism Transportation (FNTT) has unveiled its intention to adopt a hygiene certificate and other health measures to ensure the protection of customers after lockdown.Citizens and operators in the tourism sector are awaiting the government’s upcoming decision on whether it will lift the lockdown or extend it a third time beyond June 10.The FNTT asked for help from the Ministry of Health to develop sterilization criteria, a statement from the FNTT said today.
Women in Morocco’s Rif Region Produce 33,000 Face Masks
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303452/women-in-moroccos-rif-region-produce-33000-face-masks/
Women at training and integration centers in Taounate in Morocco’s northern Rif region have produced 33,000 face masks to date.The centers distribute the masks free of charge to families and individuals who are struggling financially during the COVID-19 lockdown.The training centers are currently producing 1,500 masks every day under the supervision of the provincial delegation of Mutual Aid as well as the womens’ associations who run the centers.
Morocco, Ethiopia to Accelerate Energy Access for Developing Countries
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303229/morocco-ethiopia-to-accelerate-energy-access-for-developing-countries/
In a video conference held on Monday, May 18, Morocco’s Minister of Energy, Minerals, and Environment, Aziz Rabbah, discussed with his Ethiopian counterpart, Selicie Bekele, means to strengthen their countries’ partnerships in the field of renewable energy, in which Morocco has proved its expertise.The Director-General of the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN), Mustapha Bakkoury, also participated in the video conference.The two ministers examined prospects for bilateral cooperation, especially in the field of renewable energies, where several opportunities exist for developing projects of mutual interest between the two countries.
CGEM Supports Morocco’s Decision to Kick-Start Economic Activity
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303345/cgem-supports-moroccos-decision-to-kick-start-economic-activity/
The General Confederation of Enterprises of Morocco (CGEM) believes that the Moroccan governments’ decision to allow companies to resume their activities after Eid Al Fitr is a wise action.The president of CGEM, Chakib Alj, said on May 20 that the Ministry Economy’s call is a “reassuring” decision for the country’s economy.Alj recalled that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the Moroccan economy to lose MAD 1 billion each day.The economic expert, however, thanked all forces involved in the fight against COVID-19.
Economy Minister Urges Companies to Resume Activity After Eid Al Fitr
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303153/moroccos-economy-minister-asks-companies-to-resume-activity-after-eid/
Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Mohamed Benchaaboun, has called on companies to resume their activities after the end of Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, to revive the lockdown-stressed national economy. Benchaaboun also shared with parliamentarians an update on expenses of the Special Fund for the Management and Response to COVID-19. He stated that the fund’s revenues reached MAD 32.7 billion ($3.27 billion) as of Monday, May 18. He added that more than MAD 2.2 billion ($220 million) was allocated to upgrade the health sector while a further MAD 11.5 billion ($1.15 billion) was dedicated to the Economic Watch Committee’s (CVE) measures in favor of impacted businesses and employees. The financial aid program allocated MAD 500 million ($50 million) to support SMEs and ETIs in difficulty.
World Bank: Morocco Has ‘Fantastic’ Offshore Wind Energy Potential
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303039/world-bank-morocco-has-fantastic-offshore-wind-energy-potential/
In a recent report about emerging markets of wind energy, Leybourne said that wind energy represents great potential for Morocco. The document highlighted various areas in Morocco’s western coast that are well-suited for fixed foundation offshore wind turbines, including the southernmost region of the country, which has the potential to generate 11 gigawatts (GW), and the central region, with a potential generation of 10 GW.
Morocco’s Net International Reserves Up 19.9% Despite COVID-19 Shocks
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303025/moroccos-net-international-reserves-up-19-9-despite-covid-19-shocks/
Morocco’s central bank, Bank Al-Maghrib, announced it injected MAD 91 billion ($9.25 billion) from May 7 to 13. During the same period, the Dirham appreciated by 0.23% against the Euro and by 0.89% against the Dollar. Meanwhile, the interbank rate remained at 2%. Morocco’s net international reserves amounted to MAD 278.6 billion ($28.33 billion) on May 8, a 19.9% increase compared to the same period in 2019 and up from earlier this year.
Moroccan Car Manufacturers Reinforce Health Measures, Resume Activity
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302903/moroccan-car-manufacturers-reinforce-health-measures-resume-activity/
Morocco’s Ministry of Health said yesterday that car manufacturers in the country have reinforced security measures at all plants in order to safeguard the health of employees and gradually resume industrial activity. The joint effort between the car manufacturers and the ministry comes amid the spread of COVID-19 and its impact on businesses and economic activity in Morocco.
Minister: Morocco Must Prioritize Local Production Over Imports
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302677/minister-morocco-must-prioritize-local-production-over-imports/
Morocco is able to locally manufacture most of the products it usually imports, Minister of Industry and Trade Moulay Hafid Elalamy announced. Elalamy made the statement at the House of Representatives during a session to discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected Moroccan industry. Moroccan factories currently produce 10 million face masks every day, the minister announced.
Morocco’s Damane Oxygene Program Supports 13,200 Companies in 6 Weeks
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302621/moroccos-damane-oxygene-program-supports-13200-companies-in-6-weeks/
After six and a half weeks of activity, the “Damane Oxygene” program has already benefited 13,200 companies in Morocco. Eighty-five percent of the companies are very small: Their turnover does not exceed MAD 10 million ($ 1 million). Under the program, the Central Guarantee fund has issued a total of MAD 7.3 billion ($730 million) to eligible companies to date.
Morocco’s Industrial Production in Tangier Gradually Re-Opens
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302433/moroccos-industrial-production-in-tangier-gradually-re-opens/
Manufacturing firms are gradually re-opening their activities in Tangier to revive industrial activity and to prepare for the end of the novel coronavirus crisis. Some units in the industrial city are already operating. The companies include textile , automotive, and aeronautical companies. The sectors make up the backbone of Morocco’s economy. Textile factories have been helping the country to meet national demand for face masks amid COVID-19 crisis. The manufacturing firms continue to operate while respecting the preventative measures recommended by the Ministry of Health to contain the COVID-19 spread.
Travel Agencies Present Pathway of Recovery for Moroccan Tourism
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302164/travel-agencies-present-pathway-of-recovery-for-moroccan-tourism/
The Moroccan Travel Management Club (MTM Club) prepared a report outlining the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism industry. The report also includes a series of recommendations for travel agencies and the government to help the agencies get out of the crisis. MTM Club, an association of the largest hospitality agencies in Morocco, joined in the collective effort of state and non-state actors to foster the economic recovery of Morocco.
Reopening the world: Beware of false steps
https://www.eulerhermes.com/en_global/economic-research/insights/reopening-the-world-beware-of-false-starts0.html
Black hole economics. Lockdowns for more than half of the global population and GDP have hit the world like a meteorite, pushing the global economy into its worst recession since WWII: -3.3% in 2020, equivalent to USD9tn lost or the GDP of Germany and Japan combined, and more than twice as bad as the 2009 Global Financial Crisis. Trade losses could total USD3.5tn in 2020. Insolvencies are set to increase by +20% in 2020. Up to one third of the jobs under partial unemployment are at risk of being lost.
COVID-19: Royal Air Maroc Loses MAD 50 Million Per Day
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302630/covid-19-royal-air-maroc-loses-mad-50-million-per-day/
Royal Air Maroc (RAM) has addressed a letter to its employees to outline the “violent” COVID-19 impact on the company’s turnover. Like any other airline across the world, Morocco’s flag carrier said that its efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 were not able to help reduce the impact of the economic crisis. In the letter, RAM CEO Abdelhamid Addou warned that the crisis is costing the company MAD 50 million ($5 million) per day. The letter, quoted by Moroccan television channel 2M, the company will need a minimum period of 36 months to recover from the crisis.
Morocco Reopens Weekly Souks in COVID-19-Free Regions
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302430/morocco-reopens-weekly-souks-in-covid-19-free-regions/
Moroccan authorities have given the green light to weekly produce markets in 12 rural regions, the Interprofessional Federation of the Poultry Sector (FISA) announced. “Starting Sunday, [May 10], 12 weekly souks (markets) will reopen in compliance with sanitary measures,” a report quoted FISA. The souks affected by the changes are in Sidi Kacem, Figuig, Tetouan, Khenifra, Safi, Errachidia, Fkih Ben Salah, Boulemane, Settat, Chtouka Ait Baha, Khemisset, and Jerada. The decision to reopen the souks is based on the epidemiological situation in the regions. Authorities maintain the right to ban the markets again according to the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Morocco Hopes to Boost Domestic Tourism to Save Key Sector
https://english.aawsat.com/home/article/2282166/morocco-hopes-boost-domestic-tourism-save-key-sector
Morocco’s government and tourism industry hope to encourage more Moroccans to explore the ancient souks of Marrakech and the beaches of Agadir this year, to make up for the collapse in foreign visitors due to the global pandemic. A TV advertising campaign, launched by the government, reminds citizens of the country’s many attractions with the slogan “until we meet”, reported Reuters. Tourism represents 7% of Moroccan economic activity, employing more than half a million people and generating $8 billion in foreign currency inflows last year, when 13 million foreigners flew into the North African kingdom.
Economist: PPPs, Foreign Investment to Push Morocco’s Post-COVID Economy
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302126/economist-ppps-foreign-investment-to-push-moroccos-post-covid-economy
Economist Abdelghani Youmni highlighted the potential of public-private partnerships (PPP) and foreign investment in facilitating Morocco’s post-COVID economic recovery. Youmni, who specializes in public policies in the MENA region, said the two tools can serve as motors for economic recovery after the global health crisis in an interview with Maghreb Arab Press (MAP). The two are inter-related as PPPs are a potent method to attract global investors, explained the economist.
Will COVID19 lead to health care reform in Morocco?
https://mipa.institute/7827
In Morocco, the response to COVID-19 reveals a paradox. While there is a surprising amount of state capacity to mobilize resources and combat the spread of the virus, at least for the short term, the country’s healthcare system suffers from chronic weaknesses. The public is mistrustful of the health care sector, and most Moroccans perceive health care services in the country as low-quality. The state’s ability to enforce an aggressive lockdown was significant. It mobilized security forces, public health resources, and financial support to mitigate the impact of the virus in the short term. The state of public health emergency has been extended until May 20, and, like many countries, discussions about easing lockdown measures have begun. According to MIPA’s recent survey, most citizens were satisfied with the government’s response to the pandemic and a majority even expressed trust in the government.
EBRD: Morocco’s GDP to Shrink by 2% in 2020, Rebound by 4% in 2021
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302487/ebrd-moroccos-gdp-to-shrink-by-2-in-2020-rebound-by-4-in-2021
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) declared that Moroccan GDP will shrink by 2% in 2020 following the COVID-19 crisis, in a report published today. The report is titled “The EBRD’s Regional Economic Prospects,” and forecasts that despite this year’s predicted GDP decline, the country will see a rebound of 4% in 2021. The main imputation of this slowdown is the sharp regression of tourism activity, a sector that represents 11% of the country’s GDP. EBRD also attributes the projected 2% deficit to internal factors including the cost of Morocco’s measures to fight the spread of COVID-19.
Can Morocco Effectively Handle the COVID-19 Crisis?
https://www.chathamhouse.org/expert/comment/can-morocco-effectively-handle-covid-19-crisis-1
In Morocco, the COVID-19 pandemic has increased public trust in government, but people still have doubts about the effectiveness of the healthcare system. According to a recent study conducted by the Moroccan Institute for Policy Analysis (MIPA), the majority of Moroccans surveyed are generally satisfied with the measures taken by the government to battle the coronavirus. However, the same survey also shows that Moroccans do not have confidence in the healthcare sector’s ability to respond to this pandemic. The positive perceptions of the government’s response can be explained by the swift and strict measures enacted.
Doing Business in Morocco: Significant Achievements but merely on Paper
https://mipa.institute/7799
In October 2019, Morocco’s Prime Minister said that he was happy Morocco ranked well in the World Bank’s 2020 “Doing Business” Index and moved up by 7 places to reach the 53rd place globally. During his monthly plenary session at the House of Representatives devoted to the subject of “Business Climate”, Prime Minister underlined that “improving Business Climate will not only have positive impact on investors and businesses, but also on the general public, particularly through its contribution in fighting poverty, reducing social inequalities, and improving the living conditions of ordinary citizens.This view was expressed within a context of an ongoing debate over the last three years about the limitation of the current development model. This limitation resulted in King Mohammed VI appointing a special committee to put together a new development model, which is expected to present its findings by the end of June 2020.
Professor: Morocco’s Economic Recovery to Require More Fundraising
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/04/301207/professor-moroccos-economic-recovery-to-require-more-fundraising/
Following Morocco’s strong efforts to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on its most vulnerable people, the professor deemed a second fundraising campaign necessary for the recovery of the Moroccan economy. This is the post-COVID-19 plan of Omar Kettani, a professor of economics at the Mohammed V University in Rabat, for a fast recovery of the Moroccan economy. “We have quickly mobilized funds which have reached the equivalent of $9 billion, or almost 8% of the GDP. It is, therefore, feasible to relaunch the same mobilization in a second phase after the coronavirus,” said Kettani in an interview with Maghreb Arab Press (MAP).
Morocco Charts a Robust Post-COVID Recovery Strategy
https://allafrica.com/stories/202005150309.html
Morocco, with strong leadership from King Mohammed VI, is committed to finding opportunities to restructure and redirect its economy to be better prepared for other potential calamities such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The economy is already facing a downturn due to drought which may result in as much as a 42% decline in 2019-2020 cereal production. However, given advances in the agricultural sector over the past few years, overall agricultural GDP is not expected to decline more that 5%. In other agricultural news, the FAO designated a Moroccan digital tracking system the best innovative initiative in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) for the protection of farmers and vulnerable groups against COVID-19 contamination.
Morocco to Develop Recovery Plans Tailored to Each Economic Sector
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/04/301170/morocco-to-develop-recovery-plans-tailored-to-each-economic-sector/
Morocco’s Economic Monitoring Committee (CVE) is set to develop sectoral recovery plans that will support the Moroccan economy after the COVID-19 crisis. The CVE, created to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Moroccan economy and society, held its sixth meeting on Wednesday, April 29 to implement new economic support measures. The committee’s members discussed Morocco’s overall economic and financial situation, based on the most recent economic indicators. This allowed them to make forecasts about the country’s macroeconomic and trends in the main economic sectors. The discussion led the CVE to agree on developing an integrated and coherent recovery plan that will support the national economy after the COVID-19 crisis, based on several sectoral recovery programs.
Morocco’s Economy: COVID-19 Epidemic made a new development model
https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2020/04/05/moroccos-economy-covid-19-epidemic-made-a-new-development-model/
Considering the financial dilemma of 2008, the outbreaks of the Arab political spring that brush off the Arab society and extend to the rest of the globe, and the trade war conflicts between the United States and China that caused bilateral impasse negatively influenced on the entire world economy, and after that President Trump quit from all collective and bilateral international agreements That concern free trade cooperation and environmental issues, believing that it will be favored by the world decision, militarily and economically, under the so-called of America’s interest first…
Morocco Receives $127 Million Loan From Arab Monetary Fund
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/303206/morocco-receives-127-million-loan-from-arab-monetary-fund/
The Arab Monetary Fund provided a loan worth $127 million to Morocco, a statement from the Arab finance institution announced on May 20. The press release said that the fund seeks to provide financial resources to meet the country’s needs amid the global COVID-19 crisis. Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance Mohamed Benchaaboun signed the loan agreement with the General manager and Chairman of the Fund’s Board of Directors, Abderrahman ben Abdellah Al Hamidi. The statement explained that the Arab Monetary Fund follows the development of Morocco’s economy closely.
UN: Coronavirus Pandemic to Trigger 20-30% Drop in International Tourism
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/03/297869/un-coronavirus-pandemic-to-trigger-20-30-drop-in-international-tourism/
The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) expects international tourism to drop by 20-30% in 2020 due to the suspension of international travel amid the global COVID-19 pandemic. The drop constitutes a $300-$450 billion loss for the global tourism industry—an unprecedented hit, according to UNWTO. To put the figure into perspective, international tourism dropped by just 9% during the last 2009 economic crisis, recalled UNWTO. Economies worldwide are expected to sustain severe damages as many countries have suspended international travel to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.
International Growers Step Up Sweet Grape Production in Morocco
https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2020/05/302276/international-growers-step-up-sweet-grape-production-in-morocco/
Grapa Varieties, an international grape growing business, announced last week the opening of a new agency in Morocco to support local producers growing its “ARRA” and “Early Sweet” table grape varieties. Mikhael Levy will serve as the head of the local agency. The Frenchman has over fifteen years of experience in the Moroccan agriculture industry and has worked as a representative for fresh produce importers since 2019.
Coronavirus in Morocco: Economic and Social Implications
https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/fikraforum/view/Coronavirus-Morocco-Economic-Social-impact-COVID19
During the early stages of the outbreak, like many other countries around the world, Morocco issued evacuation orders for nationals living in China’s Wuhan region, where the virus was first detected. Upon their return to Morocco, additional restrictions were put in place for the evacuees, which included a mandatory 20-day quarantine in a Rabat military hospital. To further mitigate the risk of spreading the novel coronavirus in Morocco, screening was introduced at all entry points—including airports—in late January. The following month, Morocco made free testing available to the public.
Beyond the Curve: How to Restart in the Wake of COVID-19
https://www.bcg.com/en-ca/publications/2020/restarting-the-economy-post-covid-19.aspx
It’s a previously unimaginable hit. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a near total shutdown of social and economic activity in all corners of the world. In just three months, global growth forecasts have been slashed—the IMF now projects that the global economy will contract by 3% in 2020, a bigger downturn than in the 2008–2009 financial crisis. Restarting economies and life will be the defining government challenge of our time. Governments must find an appropriate middle ground between a long, broad lockdown that damages the economy and a reopening that is too soon and too fast, risking public health and potentially subsequent lockdowns. But this is uncharted territory. With no modern precedent to inform them, governments must create the maps that will guide their actions over the next critical months.
How to restart national economies during the coronavirus crisis
https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/McKinsey/Industries/
Around the world, life as we know it has changed drastically. Global leaders and millions of citizens are facing the challenge of a lifetime. The COVID-19 pandemic is threatening not only healthcare systems, but also the livelihoods of citizens and the stability of economies. As our colleagues wrote in “Safeguarding our lives and our livelihoods,” the shock to our lives and livelihoods from the virus-suppression efforts could be the biggest of the past 100 years. If we do not stop the virus, many people will die.If attempts to stop the pandemic cause severe damage to social and economic networks, people will experience large-scale suffering in the medium and long term.