Morocco targets safer, stronger roads by 2030
Morocco targets safer, stronger roads by 2030

Morocco is setting its sights on a long-term upgrade of its national road network, aiming not just for expansion, but for lasting quality and safety. Speaking in Rabat on Monday, the country’s Minister of Equipment and Water, Nizar Baraka, outlined a strategic plan before the House of Representatives that prioritizes both the maintenance and modernization of the nation’s roads.

With nearly 48,000 kilometers of paved roads crisscrossing the country, the government is now focused on significantly improving their overall condition. The goal is ambitious: by 2030, Morocco wants at least 80% of its roads to be classified as either good or excellent, up from the current figure of 66%. This push is part of a broader effort to make road travel safer and more reliable, especially on routes where accidents remain all too common.

A substantial portion of the national road budget—nearly half—is currently being directed toward maintenance. This allocation underscores a clear policy choice: rather than simply building new roads, Morocco is determined to preserve and upgrade what it already has. The aim is to make existing infrastructure more durable and dependable, while still investing in future development.

Particular attention is being paid to high-risk roadways, where accident rates are highest. The government is prioritizing these dangerous stretches for upgrades, with the goal of reducing traffic fatalities and improving road safety. These improvements are part of a wider, integrated road safety strategy that combines technical expertise with increased funding.

As the country looks ahead, this shift toward smarter, safer roads is not just about pavement—it’s about protecting lives and ensuring that Morocco’s infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of its people.