Moroccan Program for Labeling Sustainable and Innovative Cities: A Commitment to Quality of Life and Sustainable Development
by the Efficacity program of the French Institute and the General Directorate of Territorial Communities (DGCT), and implemented by the consulting firm SUD with the assistance of the International University of Rabat (UIR). This project aims to improve the quality of life of residents, promote innovation, encourage citizen participation, and foster sustainable development. Eight Moroccan cities have been selected for the pilot phase of this program, namely Agadir, Chefchaouen, Benguerir, Ifrane, Marrakech, Rabat, Tanger, and Berkane..
The label for Sustainable and Innovative Cities primarily aims at improving the quality of life of residents. To achieve this goal, several strategic axes are prioritized:Â
Local policies focus on environmental protection, reducing social and economic inequalities, and developing public services to meet the needs of citizens.
Labeled cities implement effective measures to manage their resources, such as the use of renewable energies, preservation of biodiversity, and optimization of public transportation.
Labeled cities position themselves at the forefront of technology and innovation. They integrate technological solutions to improve public services and residents' quality of life.
The label actively encourages citizen engagement by establishing mechanisms that allow them to have a real impact on city management.
Policies and measures implemented in labeled cities aim to reduce energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and promote sustainable development in all aspects of urban life.
The labeling project is based on a participatory approach involving local authorities, economic actors, associations, and citizens. The implementation of the label will proceed in three phases:
This phase aims to assess the current situation of pilot cities and develop a strategy tailored to each local context.
Once the strategy is defined, concrete actions will be implemented to achieve the label's objectives. This includes carrying out projects and implementing specific policies in the five strategic axes.
This final phase will evaluate the results and impact of the actions taken. Indicators will be defined to measure progress in terms of quality of life, resource management, innovation, citizen participation, and sustainable development.
The Moroccan Program for Labeling Sustainable and Innovative Cities represents a strong commitment to the future of Moroccan cities. By selecting eight pilot cities, the program aims to create exemplary urban development models that can be replicated nationwide.
In addition to this presentation, the Berkane team presented the strategic vision "BIGGEST-Berkane Inclusive Good Governance and Eco-Smart and Sustainable Territory" as well as integrated digital governance. These initiatives contribute to digital and energy transformation, thus fostering economic and social development.
Berkane's involvement in co-designing the label methodology underscores the importance placed on the participation of local actors. Furthermore, the visit to the Majal Complex for Innovation and Territorial Intelligence illustrates the desire to integrate technological advances for the benefit of citizens.
Berkane's involvement in co-designing the label methodology underscores the importance placed on the participation of local actors. Furthermore, the visit to the Majal Complex for Innovation and Territorial Intelligence illustrates the desire to integrate technological advances for the benefit of citizens.
The Moroccan Program for Labeling Sustainable and Innovative Cities represents a promising initiative for improving quality of life, promoting innovation, citizen participation, and sustainable development in Moroccan cities. Through a participatory approach and phased implementation, this project aims to create exemplary urban models. Berkane serves as a reference in sustainability and innovation, contributing to a better future for residents and the environment.
