Morocco/INDH in Marrakech: An Ongoing Commitment to Promoting the Social and Solidarity Economy

The National Initiative for Human Development (INDH), in the Marrakech prefecture, has strengthened its role as a driving force for promoting the social and solidarity economy (SSE) by supporting and funding income-generating projects and building the capacity of cooperatives.

This role became particularly prominent during the third phase of the Initiative (2019–2025), which was marked by the implementation of several programs aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, economic inclusion, and the empowerment of the target populations.

On the occasion of International Cooperatives Day, the assessment of this phase highlights the tangible impact of these interventions in supporting project leaders and cooperatives, as well as their contribution to job creation, income improvement, and the strengthening of beneficiaries’ economic and social conditions.

In this context, the INDH has provided funding and support for 945 income-generating projects and activities (IGAs) benefiting more than 7,600 people, at a total cost of 219 million dirhams (MDH), to which the Initiative contributed 68%.

This support also benefited 272 cooperatives operating in various production and service sectors, contributing to the creation of more than 3,700 jobs.

These indicators highlight the central role given to women and youth in the INDH’s programs.

It should be noted that women’s cooperatives account for approximately 72% of all beneficiary cooperatives, while youth cooperatives make up nearly 50%, thus illustrating the Initiative’s commitment to human capital as the foundation of development.

The INDH’s support was not limited to funding. It also included guidance, mentoring, capacity building, improving product quality, and facilitating market access—all measures designed to strengthen the sustainability of cooperatives, their competitiveness, and their ability to create added value.

The “Zarkacha” women’s handicraft cooperative in Marrakech, which has benefited from the INDH’s support and guidance, is one of the most compelling examples of success.

Founded in 2014 by women with experience in sewing and embroidery, the cooperative faced several challenges in its early days, including a lack of equipment and low income.

Thanks to the INDH’s support, the cooperative received financial assistance of 196,000 DH, which enabled it to acquire the necessary equipment and machinery.

This support has led to time savings, an increase in production rates, diversification of activities, and a significant improvement in profitability.

The cooperative now has 80 members, including women with disabilities.

The cooperative produces a wide range of sewing and embroidery products, including bags, baskets, beauty accessories, as well as decorative and packaging items, while striving to preserve the authenticity of traditional craftsmanship and innovate to meet the expectations of its customers.

It has also expanded its client base, which now includes not only individuals but also hotels and businesses, helping to increase members’ incomes and open up new marketing opportunities.

In a statement to MAP, the cooperative’s director, Fatima Chraïbi, stated that the INDH’s support marked a true turning point in the cooperative’s journey, thanks to the modern equipment made available to it, which has enabled the cooperative to expand production and improve working conditions.

She added that the cooperative’s activities are not limited to production. The organization also holds training workshops in sewing and embroidery for women, with the aim of passing on skills and promoting their professional integration, she explained, noting that the cooperative’s operations also involve men who are responsible for preparing certain accessories and raw materials used by the craftswomen.

Ms. Chraïbi emphasized that the cooperative’s main added value lies in maintaining the quality of its products, the continuity of production, as well as in constant innovation and the development of new designs that meet market demands, while remaining true to the authenticity of traditional crafts.

Through these actions, the INDH continues, in the Marrakech prefecture, to implement the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, based on investment in human capital, support for income-generating initiatives, and strengthening the foundations of the social and solidarity economy (SSE) as a driver of sustainable and inclusive development.

Source: www.mapexpress.ma/