“Al-Mouhit Al-Filahi” Conducts an Interview with Dr. Rachid Moussadek : Soil Fertility Mapping and Desert Agriculture Technologies… Innovative Solutions to Tackle Climate Challenges in Moroccan Oases
Amid the growing environmental and climatic challenges facing the agricultural sector, the importance of adopting innovative and renewable agricultural approaches becomes evident, especially in desert regions grappling with water scarcity and soil degradation. In this context, the National Institute of Agricultural Research and the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) are striving to provide practical and effective solutions to overcome these difficulties.
In this interview, we meet with Dr. Rachid Moussadek, an international agricultural expert, senior researcher at the National Institute of Agricultural Research and ICARDA, and Chair of the Global Soil Partnership for the Near East and North Africa region under the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Dr. Mseddi has deep scientific expertise and has made significant contributions to applying modern techniques for agricultural development, particularly as one of the leading experts in soil health preservation. He provides insights into the “Soil Fertility Mapping” project and the key findings of their research, which were discussed at the study day held on October 31 on the sidelines of the International Date Palm Exhibition in Erfoud, under the theme “Moroccan Oases: For Systems Capable of Confronting Climate Change.” This scientific day aimed to highlight the role of scientific research in enhancing the sustainability of these unique ecosystems. Dr. Mseddi also shares his vision on how to manage natural resources wisely to bolster food security and support sustainable agriculture in Morocco, emphasizing innovative irrigation techniques that could be transformative for the sector.
#Welcome, Dr. Moussadek. We’d like to start our discussion on integrated sustainability in agriculture, particularly in arid desert areas. How do you view this shift towards sustainability, and what mechanisms are essential to achieving it…?
Thank you for having me. I believe that achieving sustainability in desert agriculture requires a blend of traditional agricultural techniques and modern methods. The agricultural heritage of these regions has accumulated wisdom in dealing with drought and water scarcity, while scientific innovations offer ways to improve productivity and develop environmental solutions. Thus, I am convinced that combining these two knowledge sources strengthens desert agriculture’s sustainability and yields positive long-term results.
#Talking about modern technology, you have developed the “Soil Fertility Mapping” project. Could you explain the importance of this project and how it can contribute to achieving agricultural sustainability…?
With pleasure. The Soil Fertility Mapping project is a critical research initiative led by the National Institute of Agricultural Research in collaboration with ICARDA. This project aims to assess the health of soils in detail, particularly their content of essential nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen. This assessment allows us to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the soil and helps guide farmers toward the best agricultural practices that preserve soil fertility and prevent degradation.
#What are the key findings you have reached through this project…?
Our study of oasis soils revealed a significant deficiency in organic matter, presenting an urgent environmental challenge that requires prompt intervention to restore the soil’s natural balance and protect it. Organic matter is fundamental in enhancing soil structure and health, as it improves the soil’s ability to retain water and essential nutrients for agricultural growth.
Additionally, we observed a notable increase in soil salinity due to consecutive years of drought, which calls for urgent measures to reduce salinity levels and preserve the quality of agricultural lands. This underscores the urgent need to encourage farmers to conduct regular soil tests to determine its precise needs.
Our study also identified a marked deficiency in organic components and phosphorus in certain areas, adversely affecting the quality of date production. This situation requires the targeted and rational use of phosphorus fertilizers, based on laboratory analysis, to meet the soil’s needs as swiftly as possible.
#It seems that climate change plays a significant role in exacerbating these challenges. Are there any solutions that can be applied in this context…?
Certainly, climate change adds complexity to the situation in desert regions, but there are promising initiatives to tackle these challenges. One such initiative is the “Desert Agriculture” initiative in the oases, involving several countries in partnership with ICARDA. This initiative seeks to develop a specialized agricultural model for desert areas, where we aim to apply innovative solutions to intertwined problems like drought and resource scarcity. Morocco is now engaged in this initiative, and we aspire to make our experience a pioneering one in Moroccan desert oases, especially since this model has seen significant success in some Gulf countries that face similar climatic conditions.
#This initiative sounds promising. Could you explain how desert agriculture differs from traditional agriculture and what unique features make it a distinct model…?
Desert regions differ in nature from other agricultural areas, as they face extreme drought and limited water resources. Therefore, desert agriculture requires techniques tailored to these harsh environments. Among the main features we adopt in this model are innovative irrigation techniques and agricultural practices that conserve resources and reduce water evaporation. We also focus on cultivating drought-resistant crops capable of adapting to water scarcity and high temperatures.
#How do you work on developing low-flow irrigation techniques in the oases areas, and what are the expected benefits of these techniques…?
We are currently collaborating with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States to develop specialized irrigation valves that deliver a low flow rate of 0.5 bar, compared to commercially available valves that operate at a pressure of up to 2 bars. This advanced American technology is suitable for oasis farmers, as it helps reduce energy consumption, even when relying on solar energy, thereby enhancing the system’s efficiency and sustainability.
This technology requires adequate infrastructure, as specific pipes and valves must be installed to handle low water pressure. Second, these systems require regular maintenance and continuous monitoring to avoid clogging, especially when using water of lower quality. Despite these challenges, I believe the technology represents a real opportunity to bolster food security and minimize the environmental impact of agriculture in arid areas. Additionally, we must acknowledge the role of the National Institute of Agricultural Research in biodiversity within the oases, where more than 300 types of date palm trees have been classified. Meanwhile, at ICARDA, we continue our efforts to manage a gene bank to support agricultural diversity in these regions.
#What is the significance of desert agriculture in Morocco, and how can it contribute to addressing climate and water scarcity challenges…?
Desert agriculture is a cornerstone for addressing the challenges associated with water scarcity and rising temperatures, particularly in areas with less than 100 mm of rainfall and temperatures exceeding 35°C. This type of agriculture provides smart solutions and helps reduce water consumption, unlike traditional methods used in water-abundant areas. Morocco is actively engaging in this field, and we are currently collaborating with the National Institute of Agricultural Research, ICARDA, and the National Agency for Oasis Development under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, and Forests to ensure effective and sustainable results that support this new agricultural approach.
#Dr. Moussadek, since oases are among the most prominent agricultural systems in the Moroccan desert, how do you see their role in achieving food security and agricultural sustainability? What specific challenges do these oases face in light of climate and water changes…?
Oases form an essential part of Morocco’s agricultural and cultural heritage and play a vital role in ensuring food security, particularly in arid areas. These agricultural systems are not merely fields for cultivation; they are complex ecosystems that require balanced management to ensure sustainability.
A significant challenge facing the oases is the degradation of groundwater due to over-extraction to meet agricultural needs. Climate change also affects rainfall patterns, intensifying the drought pressure on these areas. Therefore, we must focus on modern irrigation techniques and more effective water resource management, along with supporting biodiversity in these systems to ensure their resilience to environmental changes.
#Do you have specific recommendations to ensure the success of sustainable agricultural techniques in Morocco…?
Yes, several steps can be taken. Firstly, I believe that collaboration between government and scientific entities is essential to develop solutions that meet local needs. Raising awareness among farmers about the role of sustainable agricultural techniques and guiding them on how to effectively use these techniques is crucial, in addition to encouraging them to conduct soil analyses. Wise resource management is key to achieving sustainability in agriculture, especially in oases facing numerous environmental challenges.
#In conclusion, how do you see the future of desert agriculture in Morocco…?
I believe that desert agriculture holds great potential for the future of agriculture in Morocco, especially with the global focus on food security and adaptation to climate changes. By relying on local knowledge, scientific innovation, and the efforts of the Ministry of Agriculture in supporting the sector, we can turn challenges into opportunities. I hope to witness a prosperous future for desert agriculture in the oases of the Kingdom of Morocco, and that we become a leading model in achieving sustainability in the challenging environments of the Moroccan desert.
thanks Dr. Rachid Moussadek for this engaging interview and valuable information. We wish you continued success in your efforts to achieve agricultural sustainability in the Kingdom of Morocco.
In conclusion, I extend my sincere gratitude to you, Mr. Adil EL ARABI, and “Al-Mouhit Al-Filahi” magazine for your pioneering role in delivering accurate, specialized scientific information to an audience of agricultural sector professionals and enthusiasts. I highly appreciate the magazine’s efforts in raising awareness about the importance of innovation and sustainable development, and I deeply value your dedicated work in disseminating knowledge and providing a rich platform for idea exchange and expert experiences that contribute to supporting national agriculture. I look forward to continuing to support agricultural development and achieving a more prosperous and sustainable future for this vital sector.
Interview conducted by Adil el-Arabi – “Al-Mouhit Al-Filahi”