Casablanca — The 8th International Congress on the Argan Tree recently wrapped up in Essaouira. Over three days, experts gathered to discuss the future of Morocco’s argan ecosystem, focusing on sustainability and climate change.
Hosted by the National Agency for the Development of Oasis Zones and Argan Areas (ANDZOA), along with the National Institute of Agronomic Research and Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), the congress aimed to foster international research collaboration. Participants emphasized the importance of protecting the argan ecosystem amid growing climate challenges.
Several key agreements were signed, focusing on research and innovation within the argan sector. This collaboration aims to boost knowledge sharing and promote sustainable practices in areas where argan forests play a vital economic role.
Awards were presented throughout the event, celebrating outstanding research related to the argan tree. Laila Amjlef from Ibn Zohr University took home the first prize for her project on sustainable building materials made from argan nut shells. Amina Braimi and Fassih Boujemaa also received recognition for their research on soil and grazing effects on argan trees.
The congress even introduced the “Young Researchers Prize” in two categories: Master’s and doctoral theses. Bouchra Bounasser won for her innovative work on enriching sunflower oil with argan by-products, while Mohamed Mouafik was recognized for using AI to track argan tree productivity.
Broader discussions at the congress focused on strengthening the argan product value chain, enhancing biodiversity, and ensuring local communities benefit from argan-related practices. Participants urged increased investment in climate adaptation and sustainable land management strategies, reflecting a growing global interest in the argan tree as both an ecological and economic treasure.
The argan tree has become crucial to many Moroccan communities, offering both economic support and environmental benefits. As climate pressures mount, protecting this ecosystem is essential for the future of rural populations in Morocco.
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Argan Congress
