The Office of Cooperation Development (ODCO) held its Board of Directors meeting on Tuesday, December 26, 2023, chaired by Fatim-Zahra Ammor, Minister of Tourism, Handicrafts, and Social and Solidarity Economy.

In the introduction, the Minister emphasized the importance of the Social and Solidarity Economy (SSE) sector as a resilient economic model, highlighting its crucial role in the socio-economic development of communities and the financial autonomy of youth and women.

It also highlighted the significant untapped potential, stating that the comprehensive strategy of the SSE, currently being developed within the Ministry, will support goals to contribute up to 8% of the GDP, as well as the annual creation of 50,000 new jobs by 2035, in accordance with the guidelines of the New Development Model. The Minister emphasized the need to continue developing cooperatives, being the most widespread model in this sector

Fatim-Zahra Ammor stated, "In 2022, 6200 new cooperatives were established, bringing their total number to 53,800 by the end of the same year. We place a strong emphasis on youth and women cooperatives, which is why we invest significantly with ODECO in training programs, marketing, support for innovation, and the digitalization of these cooperatives.

On the other hand, Aicha Errifaai, General Manager of ODCO, provided a numerical overview of the achievements of the Office during the year 2023, highlighting various support initiatives such as the 4th edition of the "Mourafaka" program, as well as the ongoing work on the emergency plan for cooperatives affected by the Al Haouz earthquake, the implementation of which has been entrusted to ODCO. She also outlined the main points of her action plan for the year 2024, which will strengthen support and assistance efforts for cooperatives.

Article source: finances news