Territorial Diagnosis and Development Challenges in Rural Morocco: The Case of Sidi Slimane Moul Kifane Commune in the Southern Periphery of Mekneso

Abstract

The location of the commune of Sidi Slimane Moul Kifane on the outskirts of the city of Meknes has placed it within the city’s suburban belt and at the center of the socio-spatial dynamics between rural and urban areas, which has influenced several of its spatial and demographic characteristics. Although the area benefits from highly favorable climatic and geographical conditions for agricultural development, it suffers from the multiplicity of land tenure systems and the diversity of landholding structures. Holdings of less than 5 hectares are the most widespread, reflecting land fragmentation and the associated low agricultural productivity. The area also exhibits notable demographic dynamics. According to the 2024 census, its population reached approximately 20,427 inhabitants, with an annual growth rate of +0.65%, indicating the attractiveness of the area. Out of 36 rural settlements (douars), 26 recorded positive population growth, particularly those located near urban centers. As a result, the population is relatively young, with approximately 52.2% being under 29 years of age. However, the proportion of the economically active population is limited to only 40%, revealing a significant employment challenge and the resulting issues of unemployment, which affects 21% of the population, and poverty, which affects 10% of residents. This territorial diagnosis leads to the conclusion that priority should be given to job creation and the valorization of local resources through the diversification of rural investment activities in order to achieve the desired territorial development.