This dynamic has affected various sectors, whether it concerns the development of infrastructure, the strengthening of the local economy's momentum, or the enhancement of cultural heritage and environmental protection.
In this context, an ambitious action plan has been developed covering nine key areas, including sports infrastructure, transport, accommodation, sustainable development and education.
This plan includes two main pillars concerning the modernisation of the city's infrastructure and the rehabilitation of the Medina of Fes, which is considered a world heritage treasure.
The first part, which has been allocated a total budget of over 11 billion dirhams, is based on structuring projects, such as the modernisation of public transport (754 million dirhams), health infrastructure (670 million dirhams), and the creation of emergency and burn centres.
Sustainable development is also a priority, with 828 million dirhams allocated to energy transition and environmental projects. The second part, which has been allocated a budget of approximately 1.26 billion dirhams, aims to enhance and restore the Medina of Fes, in partnership with the Ministries of the Interior and Economy and Finance.
This project includes the restoration of historical heritage for 108 million dirhams, the rehabilitation of the urban area for 647 million dirhams, and the improvement of economic and tourist attractiveness.
This year was also marked by the launch of renovation and expansion works for the Grand Stadium of Fes, with a total budget of approximately 300 million dirhams. This project, which aims to increase the stadium's capacity to 55,800 seats, reflects the region's commitment to FIFA standards for hosting the 2030 World Cup.
Furthermore, the rehabilitation works of the Honneur Stadium in Meknes have been completed. The cities of Fes and Meknes are famous, thanks to their historic clubs such as Maghreb de Fes, CODM Meknes and Widad de Fes, for the enthusiasm and passion of their fans.
Improving transport infrastructure is another key pillar for the region's transformation, as Fes-Saiss airport is undergoing an expansion process to increase the capacity of this platform from three to five million passengers per year by 2028.
The road and rail network has also been strengthened through the modernisation of 15 roads and streets, the renewal of transport vehicles on several lines, and the construction of a new train station in Meknes.
Urban public transport will also be improved by adding new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines and acquiring 260 new buses.
On the economic level, the Fes-Meknes region has engaged in structuring projects to strengthen the momentum of its industrial fabric, particularly through the development of the former "Cotef" zone, the development of the Ain Cheggag industrial park, and the creation of an industrial zone in Ain Beida.
Furthermore, the Ain Cheggag industrial acceleration zone, the first free zone in the region, will soon be opened. The region has more than 13 industrial zones that have entered into service, and 7 logistics zones are planned.
The year 2024 was also marked by special attention to improving the living environment of citizens, as urban rehabilitation covered a group of under-equipped areas, and the modernisation or construction of key public facilities.
Investments were also made to strengthen security through video surveillance technology, and the creation of green spaces and public places.
In turn, the health sector has been strengthened by the construction and renovation of specialised care centres and hospitals.
The education and training sectors have occupied a central place in the region's development plan, through the modernisation of educational infrastructure, and the development of a special training plan for the World Cup, including modules for teaching foreign languages and soft skills.
Culturally, initiatives have been launched to enhance heritage and infrastructure, through the construction of a media library, an art gallery and an outdoor performance hall, as well as the organisation of cultural events.
Youth have also been a focus of attention, through the strengthening of infrastructure and equipment aimed at their benefit, and the training of volunteers for major sporting events.
On the other hand, the Fes-Meknes region has taken on strong commitments in the field of sustainable development and biodiversity protection, through the reuse of wastewater for watering green spaces, the production of electricity from biomass, the conversion of public lighting to LED technology, and the implementation of sustainable transport solutions. Projects have also been launched to protect biodiversity and improve air quality.
This year was also marked by the launch of the 2024/2025 agricultural season, from the Saiss plain in the Fes-Meknes region, and the announcement of measures to support farmers in the face of drought and rising prices of agricultural inputs.
Overall, 2024 has been a year of major transformation for the Fes-Meknes region, through structuring investments and a dynamic that promises promising future prospects.
