The Metfia in Central Morocco

Abstract

In the modern schemes in central Morocco, traditional methods of water storage in metfias, partially subterranean water tanks, continue to supply domestic water to many villagers. In a cross sectional survey 101 metfias in 21 villages were visited. A few were private household water sources, most of which were shared with neighbors, while others were communal water sources. In order to fill a metfia from the modern irrigation system, the owner must have a water right and a minimum of five hectares of cultivable land. Villagers with no land can use a communal metfia, take water from a neighbor's metfia, or use water from canals and siphons. Most metfias were situated in the southern part of the irrigation scheme, where ground water was more than 100 m deep. For most villagers, water from metfias is the only alternative to surface water from the canals and structures in the irrigation system, such as the concrete siphons. In a village that lies outside the irrigation area, water shortage is very frequent. People depend totally on water stored in the collective metfia. The collective metfia was constructed by the government, had a high capacity and was provided with a desilting basin that reduces water silt content before it is stored in a second basin. Water stored in metfias is used for drinking, for a range of domestic activities and for watering livestock. A major problem mentioned by users is the irregular provision of water to metfias from the irrigation network. This study identifies some feasible strategies for improving both the quality and quantity of the water in the metfias, as well as options for building new ones. The importance of intersectoral collaboration and community input into planning and maintenance is emphasized.