Mapping water poverty in Morocco: a spatial analysis of regional disparities

Water scarcity poses a major challenge to sustainable development in Morocco. Although a foundational national assessment of water poverty has been established, the spatial dynamics driving these vulnerabilities remain unexplored. This study addresses that gap by applying the Water Poverty Index (WPI) across Morocco’s twelve regions for the years 2014 and 2024. Beyond standard index calculation, we employed spatial autocorrelation techniques, specifically Moran’s I and Geary’s C, to detect geographic clustering. The results reveal divergent regional trajectories over the decade. Infrastructure investments have significantly improved the Access component nationwide, yet the Resource component has deteriorated in southern and eastern provinces due to intensifying climate stress. Spatial statistical tests confirm that water poverty is not randomly distributed but exhibits significant clustering, driven by stark climate contrasts. On the other hand, the Capacity component shows a fragmented spatial pattern, reflecting localized socio-economic disparities. These findings suggest that uniform national policies are insufficient. Effective water governance requires territorially differentiated strategies that address the structural divide between the water-resilient north and the water-scarce south.