ANEF reports 86% drop in wildfires in 2024, unveils $16 million fire prevention plan for 2025

Morocco saw a significant decline in wildfires during the 2024 season, with only 382 forest fires recorded, burning approximately 874 hectares of forest cover — a sharp 86% decrease compared to the 6,426 hectares lost in 2023, according to the National Agency for Water and Forests.

The agency presented the figures Thursday during a meeting of the Administrative Committee for the Prevention and Control of Forest Fires, chaired by Director General Abderrahim Houmi and attended by key stakeholders. The session was dedicated to evaluating the 2024 fire season and reviewing preparations for 2025.

The agency noted that seasonal grasses and secondary vegetation accounted for around 45% of the burned areas. While nearly all regions of the country experienced wildfires to varying degrees, the highest number of incidents — 123 fires — occurred in the Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region, which lost 346 hectares. In terms of area affected, the Fès-Meknes region suffered the most damage, with 357 hectares burned, representing 41% of the national total.

Officials attributed the drop in wildfires to favorable summer weather conditions in high-risk areas, and to an effective early intervention strategy that helped extinguish 95% of fires before they could exceed 5 hectares in size.

Only two fires surpassed the 100-hectare mark: one in Boured, Taza province (162 hectares), and another in the Bghaghza area near Tetouan (156 hectares).

Preventive measures — such as awareness campaigns targeting over 27,000 students and visitors in 240 schools and 100 urban forests — also contributed to the improved outcome. These initiatives were reinforced during the National Awareness Day Against Forest Fires, held annually on May 21.

Budgeting for 2025

To further strengthen its defenses, the agency has earmarked MAD 160 million (approximately $16 million) for the 2025 wildfire prevention campaign. The funds will be allocated to:

• Preventive measures and infrastructure upgrades (MAD 114.86 million)

• Surveillance and early warning systems (MAD 38.6 million)

• Rapid response operations (MAD 16 million)

The investment will support new fire patrols, maintenance of forest roads and firebreaks, upgrading of water points and watchtowers, and the purchase of new intervention vehicles.

Emphasizing that most fires are caused by negligent human behavior, the agency urged forest visitors — including campers, herders, beekeepers, and hikers — to avoid using fire during summer months. It also called on all citizens to immediately report any signs of fire, smoke, or suspicious activity.