In the water-scarce region of Figuig, Morocco, managing water resources has long been a challenge, made worse by climate change and prolonged droughts. For decades, decision-making in this sector has been dominated by men, excluding women, who bear the daily responsibility of managing water at home and in the fields, from governance processes.
A woman's journey to water leadership
Jamal Eddine Hannan, a 41-year-old housewife and agricultural worker, has made history as the first woman to be nominated to Figuig’s local water council. Her journey is a testament to how women can break barriers through leadership and capacity-building.
Growing up in Ksar Loudaghir, Jamal learned early on the vital role of water in sustaining both family life and agriculture. As a housewife, she manages her household’s water needs:
I use the water from our well for housework and gardening. I also carry out the agricultural work my father once did in the palm grove, watering the field with spring water. But with increasing drought, these tasks have become much more difficult.
Despite her deep knowledge and experience, Jamal had no voice in decisions on how water resources were allocated in her community. That changed when she joined the Women and Sustainable Cities programme, which provides leadership training, mentorship, and capacity-building for women in water governance. Funded by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the initiative aims to ensure that women play an active role in shaping the future of water management in their communities.
Determined to challenge traditional gender roles, Jamal seized the opportunity: "I told myself that I must be the first to participate in these associations alongside men. Thank God, I succeeded. I am now part of a water association as well as the local water council. For the first time, we have a voice, and we can defend our interests alongside men."
Through the programme, Jamal developed the skills and confidence to advocate for greater inclusion of women in water governance. Her success marks a turning point in a region where women’s voices have historically been absent from decision-making processes.
The importance of women in water governance
Jamal’s appointment to the water council is not just a personal achievement; it represents progress for all women in Figuig.
Women are the main pillar in preserving water and managing it in a rational way. Their participation is important, not just for management, but for bearing responsibility and self-realization.
The Women and Sustainable Cities programme has taken concrete steps to address gender-specific challenges. For instance, it has established women’s committees to oversee the maintenance and management of renovated washhouses, ensuring that accessibility and hygiene concerns are met. These initiatives empower women to play a direct role in shaping water governance decisions that impact their daily lives.
Yet, significant challenges remain. Traditional gender norms continue to limit women’s participation in formal governance structures. While Jamal’s success is groundbreaking, local water councils and Agricultural Water Users Associations (AUEAs) remain male-dominated, and women’s needs are often overlooked in water management policies and projects. Still, Jamal remains hopeful. "My dream is to see more women in every ksar, in every village, actively participating in water governance" she said.
This is not just about managing water. It is about empowering women to shape their future, challenge traditional roles, and take on leadership positions that benefit the entire community.
A call for broader change
Jamal’s journey serves as an inspiration for women in Figuig and beyond. Her story proves that with the right support and opportunities, women can not only take on leadership roles in water governance but also drive meaningful, lasting change.
"I advise women to build their capacities, participate in training, develop networks, and learn from other women leaders. No matter the obstacles, there must be determination. Be strong-willed and patient, and you will find solutions."
As more women like Jamal step into leadership roles, they are shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future for water governance in Figuig.
