Millions of families in Morocco’s rural areas still face long journeys to access basic services, according to a new database published Monday by the High Commission for Planning (HCP).
Despite some progress in bringing schools and roads closer to villages, daily life remains a struggle for many.
Healthcare access is a major challenge. Over three million rural residents, about a quarter of the village population, have to travel more than 10 kilometers to reach the nearest health facility.
Another four million people, roughly 31%, cover between 5 and 9 kilometers, while nearly four million travel around 4 kilometers.
Only two million residents, or 15%, live less than two kilometers from a clinic.
Schools are not much easier to reach. Primary schools have been brought closer to villages, but middle and high schools are still far.
Nearly 70% of rural households are less than two kilometers from a primary school, while 28% live about 4 kilometers away. A small share, 0.6%, over 17,800 families, must travel more than 10 kilometers.
Middle school access is more difficult: about 30% of families travel 5 to 9 kilometers, another 30% around 4 kilometers, and 26% over 10 kilometers.
High school distances are even greater, with 42% of families living more than 10 kilometers away, 28% between 5 and 9 kilometers, and only 15% within two kilometers.
Road access shows some improvement. Around 78% of villages are less than two kilometers from a paved road, and 90% are within two kilometers of roads suitable for cars.
However, 3% of villages remain over 10 kilometers away from proper roads.
Housing conditions reveal another inequality. While 75% of rural households live in decent homes, one in four families resides in inadequate housing. In some villages, substandard homes house up to 75% of residents.
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