Rural women in Morocco face economic challenges despite Argan oil growth

In celebration of International Rural Women's Day, events in Morocco's Ait Baha region have highlighted the critical yet precarious role of rural women in the Argan oil production chain. While women are essential to the ecological preservation of the Argan Biosphere Reserve and the local economy, they face significant social and climatic vulnerabilities.

Data indicates a strong female presence in the sector, with 683 women-led cooperatives comprising 10,638 members. However, economic disparities persist; estimates suggest intermediaries may capture over 80% of Argan trade revenues, leaving producers with limited returns despite the high global demand for Argan oil in food and cosmetic industries.

To address these challenges, local initiatives are focusing on economic empowerment and health. In Ait Baha, programs supported by the National Initiative for Human Development have allocated over 18 million dirhams to 202 projects benefiting women in agriculture, handicrafts, and tourism. Additional efforts include medical campaigns for maternal and child health, as well as workshops on digitalization and marketing to improve the negotiating power of small cooperatives.