Housing for all, Navigating the affordability in a changing world

Imane Hanzaz

Moderator

November 5, 2024 | 15:00 - 16:30

Multipurpose room 04

Ministry of National Territory and Urban Planning Housing and City Policy

Morocco

French

Reference:

NE 04-02

WUF12

Networking Events

Summary

For several decades, the Kingdom of Morocco has embarked on a path of profound transformation, guided by ambitious public policies that have reshaped key sectors of its economy and society, including the housing sector.
The rapid urbanization, reaching 64.3% in 2022, reflects Morocco's rapid evolution from a predominantly rural country to a rapidly expanding urban nation. This new territorial dynamic has placed housing at the forefront of the state's concerns, both in rural and urban areas.
The current national and international context, marked by the aftermath of health, economic, and environmental crises, has accentuated the challenges related to housing. Soaring prices of construction materials, scarcity of raw materials, and declining purchasing power, particularly among low- and middle- income groups, have necessitated a rethinking of housing issues.
It is in this context that Morocco has taken a bold initiative by launching a new housing program focused on direct financial support to citizens wishing to access homeownership, thus opening a new chapter in the history of Moroccan housing.
This Side Event will be an opportunity to highlight the significant step that Morocco has taken in laying the foundations for a more sustainable and inclusive society where decent housing is within reach of all. It will also be an opportunity to share the experience of digitizing the housing financial aid program, which is a major asset for the efficiency and transparency of the program.
This side event extends beyond Morocco's borders, offering a glimpse into the global landscape of housing innovation. Participants will embark on a journey to explore pioneering approaches to housing affordability, drawing inspiration from diverse experiences across Africa, and the Mediterranean region.
Delve into the strategies employed to address 21st-century challenges, encompassing innovative solutions that prioritize accessibility, environmental responsibility, and the fostering of inclusive communities.

Objectives

• Shedding light on the Moroccan initiative to promote affordable and inclusive housing through the new housing program focused on direct financial support to citizens. The side event will also explore some African and Mediterranean cases with a particular focus on the needs of low- and middle-income groups, as well as the role of women in such housing programs;
• Highlighting the digitized management of the housing direct support program, which has ensured efficiency, transparency, and equity, while also improving access to information and citizen satisfaction.
• Creating a space for discussion and exchange among experts, policymakers, and stakeholders in the housing sector to foster collaboration and identify innovative solutions for affordable housing in the face of global challenges such as urbanization, climate change, and social and spatial inequalities.