Morocco relies on spectacular announcements, showcasing grand ambitions that are often devoid of realism and funding, thus revealing a motivation that is more political than economic. In contrast, Algeria, driven by its pan-African vision, stands out through concrete and impactful achievements, built on its national resources and universally recognized expertise.
Neither Africans nor the international community can be deceived: these initiatives, which resemble diversionary tactics, share a common denominator. They aim to fabricate a false legitimacy for the illegal colonization of Western Sahara under the pretext of African solidarity.
In the long run, African nations will be able to distinguish sincere commitments from hollow promises. True to its principles of integration and regional development, Algeria continues to strengthen its position as a major and indispensable player in Africa's progress.
The Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline: A Distant Dream?
The Nigeria-Morocco gas pipeline is one of Morocco’s most ambitious projects, aiming to build a 6,000-kilometer pipeline connecting Nigeria to Morocco and passing through 13 African countries. Despite its ambitious scope, the project faces numerous obstacles that cast doubt on its feasibility:
1. Enormous Technical Challenges
Constructing an underwater pipeline of this length and depth is unprecedented in the history of the energy industry. Such an infrastructure, subjected to extreme geological and environmental conditions, requires advanced technology and expertise that Morocco currently lacks.
2. Unclear Financing
The project is estimated to cost about $50 billion, an astronomical sum. So far, Morocco has failed to secure even the $100 million needed for a feasibility study, let alone the entire funding required for execution.
3. Geopolitical Instability
The pipeline would pass through 13 countries, several of which face political and security challenges, including terrorism and internal conflicts. Protecting this infrastructure across unstable regions presents almost insurmountable risks.
4. Underlying Political Motives
Beyond the energy aspect, Morocco seems to be using this project to enhance its political influence in West Africa and distract from Algeria’s initiatives. Observers believe this strategy also aims to garner international support for Morocco’s position on the Western Sahara issue.
The Nouadhibou and Lagouira Fantasy: Media Over Reality
Morocco recently announced another ambitious project to transform Nouadhibou, in Mauritania, into the "Dubai of Africa," while also seeking to integrate the nearby locality of Lagouira, which is under Mauritanian administration but controlled by the Polisario Front.
1. Nouadhibou: A Project Detached from Reality
Moroccan media claims that massive Emirati investments will turn Nouadhibou into a global economic hub. However, no concrete details have been provided regarding funding sources or implementation plans.
- Credibility Issues: While Nouadhibou holds strategic significance due to its proximity to fishing and mining resources, it lacks the necessary infrastructure for a project of this magnitude.
- Lack of Official Emirati Support: The United Arab Emirates has not issued any official statements corroborating Morocco’s claims.
2. Lagouira: An Illegitimate Claim
Morocco asserts that Mauritania has agreed to relinquish sovereignty over Lagouira, a claim refuted by Mauritanian authorities. This media manipulation seems intended to create confusion over the legal status of this area, which remains under Polisario control.
Algeria’s Realistic Projects: Practical and Effective Solutions
In stark contrast to Morocco’s approach, Algeria focuses on tangible, feasible projects that address Africa’s real needs and contribute to its development.
1. The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP)
- Description: This project connects Nigeria to Algeria via Niger, transporting 30 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually to Europe.
- Advantages:
- Solid funding from Algeria and Nigeria.
- Recognized technical expertise from Algeria in the gas sector.
- Joint efforts to secure the region and protect it from terrorist threats.
2. The Trans-Saharan Highway
- Description: This 4,500-kilometer highway aims to connect Algeria to Nigeria via Niger, enhancing trade and regional integration.
- Progress: Many sections have already been completed and are operational.
- Impact: Improved connectivity will foster trade between Saharan and sub-Saharan countries, boosting economic development across the region.
3. The Tindouf-Zouerate Road
- Description: An 800-kilometer road linking Tindouf in Algeria to Zouerate in Mauritania.
- Impact: It will facilitate the transport of goods, reduce logistical costs, and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
4. Water Desalination Projects in Mauritania
- Description: Algeria is investing in desalination plants in Mauritania to address water scarcity and improve local living conditions.
- Advantages:
- Proven and successful desalination technology in Algeria.
- Direct impact on public health and economic development in targeted areas.
Conclusion: Contrasting Approaches
Morocco relies on spectacular announcements, showcasing grand ambitions that often lack realism and funding, revealing a political motivation rather than an economic one. In contrast, Algeria, driven by its pan-African vision, stands out with concrete and impactful projects, built on national resources and widely recognized expertise.
Neither Africans nor the international community can be deceived: these initiatives, which resemble diversionary tactics, share a common denominator. They aim to fabricate legitimacy for the illegal colonization of Western Sahara under the guise of African solidarity.
In the long run, African nations will discern genuine commitments from hollow promises. True to its principles of integration and regional development, Algeria continues to solidify its role as a pivotal and indispensable player in Africa’s progress.
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