Morocco’s rural women hold untapped $2.6 B economic potential

RABBAT, Morocco (MNTV) – Morocco holds the human potential worth $2.6 billion—2.2% of GDP—in its economy if the integration of rural women is enabled into the workforce, according to new findings from the High Commission for Planning (HCP). 

However, despite their potential, systemic barriers continue to limit their participation, according to Morocco World News.  

A recent conference in Rabat, “Women’s Empowerment in Morocco: Understanding Challenges for Better Action,” co-organized by HCP, UN Women, and the EU delegation, highlighted the untapped economic power of rural women. 

Key obstacles include unpaid domestic labor, restricted access to healthcare and education, and difficulties securing property rights and financing.  

Three major studies presented at the event outlined pathways to unlock this potential:  

1. Closing the Wage Gap & Valuing Unpaid Work – Policies must address wage disparities and recognize women’s unpaid contributions, particularly in agriculture and household labor.  
2. Boosting High-Impact Sectors – Investing in female-dominated industries could accelerate economic inclusion.  
3. Expanding Rural Opportunities – Rural women remain an underutilized workforce, with their economic participation lagging behind urban counterparts.  

The research underscores that economic empowerment for rural women isn’t just a social issue—it’s a national growth strategy. 

By improving access to land ownership, financial services, and education, Morocco could harness this $2.6 billion opportunity while advancing gender equality.