Once a lush and fertile haven, the Skoura Oasis in southern Morocco is now drying up as desertification accelerates, threatening the livelihoods of local farmers and driving migration from the region.
Known for its abundant palm groves and reliable water supply, the oasis has suffered from years of drought, which have severely impacted agriculture. “The lack of water has significantly affected trees and crops, hurting the entire population and leading to increased migration,” said a representative from a local farming cooperative.
Farmers in the region are struggling to adapt as their incomes decline. The United Nations estimates that 40% of cultivated land in Morocco is degraded, exacerbating economic hardships for rural communities.
In response, cooperatives are working to train farmers and collaborate with climate experts to find sustainable solutions. “Our work focuses on education and partnerships to combat these challenges,” the cooperative member added.
Local authorities and international organizations are now implementing critical plans to ensure the oasis’s survival, including water management initiatives and urban development strategies. However, with desertification spreading, the future of Skoura—and Morocco’s ancient oases—remains uncertain.
