Morocco has increased its 2026 budget for the health and education sectors by 16%, allocating 140 billion dirhams ($15 billion) to improve service delivery and address long-standing social demands across the country.
According to a statement from the royal palace, the increased funding reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening social welfare and reducing inequalities, following recent youth-led protests calling for better healthcare and education.
The allocation represents about 10% of Morocco’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The royal palace also projected that “the country’s economy would grow by 4.8% in 2026, up from 3.8% in 2024, driven by domestic demand and a strong non-agricultural sector.”
The 2026 draft budget, which will be presented to parliament next week, also includes measures to promote regional development and social inclusion.
In a related move, the ministerial council chaired by King Mohammed VI approved two draft laws ahead of the next general elections. The laws aim to boost youth and women’s participation in politics and prevent corruption by barring candidates convicted of crimes from running for office.
Under the proposals, candidates under the age of 35 will benefit from simplified candidacy procedures and financial support covering up to 75% of their campaign expenses