This launch, initiated in partnership with the Office for Cooperation Development (ODCO), attended by Minister of National Education, Preschool and Sports Mohamed Saad Berrada, Secretary of State for Housing Adib Benbrahim, and several civil society players, follows its announcement by the United Nations in New Delhi, on the sidelines of the World Congress of Cooperatives organized by the International Cooperative Alliance. 

Speaking on the occasion, Essaadi stressed the major significance of the 2025 International Year of Cooperatives, proclaimed by the UN under the theme “Cooperatives build a better world”, as a strategic step to enhance successful experiences, strengthen the skills of players in the sector, encourage partnerships between cooperatives worldwide and promote the adoption of more appropriate public policies to support the sector.

He pointed out that there are now over 60,000 cooperatives in Morocco, with more than 760,000 members, adding that their role goes beyond a simple inclusive entrepreneurial model, given that these cooperatives are a strategic lever for economic empowerment, particularly for women and young people, as well as an essential pillar of a resilient, job-creating, socially cohesive economy.

Essaadi also affirmed that his department, in coordination with the ODCO, is working to strengthen the role of cooperatives, through regional meetings promoting the exchange of experience and the networking of players on a national scale. 

For her part, ODCO Managing Director Aicha Errifaai reiterated her institution's commitment to structuring and supporting cooperatives in order to maximize their potential and contribute to the growth of national economy.

She insisted on involving all stakeholders to promote the cooperative sector and achieve the objectives set at the proclamation of the International Year of Cooperatives 2025. 

The launch ceremony featured the presentation of local cooperative models from various sectors, highlighting successful experiences showcasing the potential for economic and social transformation of Moroccan cooperatives.

On June 19, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring 2025 the International Year of Cooperatives, urging member states, the United Nations and relevant stakeholders to benefit of the event to promote the contribution of cooperatives to social and economic growth.