Ain Bni Mathar is a significant town situated in the Jerada province, within the Oriental region of Morocco. Located approximately 80 kilometres south of Oujda, the town serves as a vital hub for the surrounding rural areas. With a population of 15,488 inhabitants as of 2024, it balances traditional agricultural practices with modern industrial advancements, most notably in the energy sector.
The town is set upon a plateau at an altitude of nearly 500 metres. This elevated landscape provides the backdrop for the region's pastoral and agricultural activities. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Ras El AĂŻn spring, a crucial water source that has historically shaped the settlement patterns and economic viability of the town. The surrounding terrain is well-suited for the livestock farming that defines the local economy.
Ain Bni Mathar is widely recognized for its contribution to Moroccan agriculture, specifically through the breeding of the Beni Guil sheep. This breed is highly esteemed for the quality of its wool and is a staple of the regional economy. The town acts as a primary supplier of livestock, particularly sheep, to the wider Oriental region, maintaining a long-standing tradition of pastoral excellence that remains central to the local identity.
The natural environment of Ain Bni Mathar is heavily influenced by the Ras El Aïn spring. The local inhabitants utilize a traditional network of séguias—small irrigation canals—to distribute water from the spring to the outskirts of the town. This system supports market gardening and the cultivation of fodder crops, creating a green belt that contrasts with the arid plateau landscape. These agricultural zones offer a glimpse into the traditional water management techniques that have sustained the community for generations.
Ain Bni Mathar holds a unique place in Morocco's modern history as the site of the Kingdom's first hybrid solar-thermal power station. This facility represents a significant milestone in the country's strategy to diversify its energy resources. By integrating solar energy with thermal power generation, the station supports Morocco's broader economic growth and commitment to renewable energy development. The presence of this infrastructure highlights the town's role as a bridge between traditional rural life and the nation's forward-looking industrial ambitions.
Situated 80 kilometres south of Oujda, Ain Bni Mathar is accessible via the regional road network. As a town deeply rooted in livestock trade and agriculture, visitors will find a community centered around its markets and the seasonal rhythms of pastoral life. The town serves as an essential service point for those traveling through the Jerada province, offering insight into the unique socio-economic landscape of the Oriental region.
