Morocco‘s 2024 Census: A Nation in Transition

The recently released results of Morocco’s 2024 General Population and Housing Census paint a picture of a nation undergoing notable demographic, social, and economic transformations.The data reveals both progress and challenges, offering valuable insights into a country increasingly relevant on the global stage.

With a total population of 36.8 million in 2024—a 2.98 million increase since 2014—Morocco’s population growth rate averages 0.85% annually.A notable shift is the increasing urbanization, with 62.8% of the population now residing in urban areas.This mirrors similar trends seen in many developing nations and presents challenges similar to those faced by rapidly growing U.S. cities.

The census also highlights a declining fertility rate, down to 1.97 children per woman, below the replacement threshold of 2.1. This trend, also observed in many developed countries including the U.S., has significant long-term implications for the country’s workforce and social security systems. Coupled with an aging population—13.8% of the population is now 60 or older, compared to 9.4% in 2014—Morocco faces the need to adapt its infrastructure and social programs to meet the growing needs of its senior citizens.

Human capital development shows mixed results. While school enrollment for children aged 6 to 11 is high at 95.8%, the average duration of schooling is only 6.3 years (7.9 years in urban areas, a stark contrast to 3.2 years in rural areas). The literacy rate stands at 24.8%, with a significantly lower rate of 38% in rural areas. Addressing this disparity is crucial for Morocco’s future economic growth, echoing similar educational equity concerns within the United States.

Socioeconomic conditions present further challenges. The activity rate dropped to 41.6% in 2024, down from 47.6% in 2014. Unemployment has risen to 21.3%, with significant regional disparities, reaching 31.5% in Guelmim-Oued Noun and a comparatively lower 10.6% in Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab. These figures underscore the need for targeted economic policies to address regional inequalities and stimulate job creation, a challenge shared by many nations, including the U.S.

Despite these challenges, the census also reveals positive developments. Modern housing is increasingly prevalent,with 97.1% of households connected to electricity. The average household size has decreased to 3.9 people, reflecting changing family structures. Internet usage has also seen a significant increase, reaching 59.6%, especially among young people and urban dwellers.

The census highlights three key challenges for Morocco’s future: the increasing rate of aging and the need for expanded elder care; the rising unemployment rate, particularly in certain regions, requiring targeted strategies; and the rapid urbanization demanding improved urban planning and infrastructure. These are all issues that resonate with the complexities faced by many developed and developing nations alike.

For more detailed results, please visit: RGPH 2024: the main detailed results

Morocco’s 2024 Census: Unveiling a Nation in Flux

The recent release of Morocco’s 2024 General Population and Housing Census data offers a engaging glimpse into a nation navigating notable demographic shifts, socioeconomic changes, and modernization trends.

An Interview with Dr. Nadia El Mouden, Expert in North African Demographics

Eleanor Yates, Senior Editor, world-today-news.com: Dr. El Mouden, thank you for joining us today. The 2024 Moroccan census reveals a nation experiencing rapid changes. Can you highlight some of the most striking findings?



dr. Nadia El Mouden: It’s a pleasure to be here. Morocco’s population growth, while averaging a modest 0.85%, is accompanied by a marked increase in urbanization, with over 60% of moroccans now living in cities. This mirrors global trends but demands careful urban planning to ensure sustainable infrastructure and services.



Eleanor Yates: The aging population seems to be another key takeaway from the census. What are the implications of this trend for Morocco?



Dr. Nadia El Mouden: Absolutely. The fertility rate has fallen below the replacement level, and the proportion of Moroccans aged 60 or older is steadily rising. This presents both challenges and opportunities. Morocco will need to adapt its healthcare and social security systems to meet the needs of its aging population, but it can also leverage the experience and wisdom of seniors to contribute to societal growth.



Eleanor Yates: The census also sheds light on educational attainment and socioeconomic conditions.What are your observations in these areas?







Dr. Nadia El Mouden: There’s good news and bad news. While primary school enrollment is high, the average duration of schooling remains relatively low, especially in rural areas. This underlines the need for continued investment in education and efforts to bridge the urban-rural divide.

Socioeconomically, the drop in the activity rate and the rise in unemployment, particularly in certain regions, are concerning. targeted economic policies and job creation initiatives are essential to address these disparities and ensure more inclusive growth.



Eleanor Yates: Despite these challenges, the census also reveals some positive developments.



Dr.Nadia El Mouden: Absolutely. I was encouraged to see the significant increase in access to electricity and internet connectivity, especially among younger generations in urban areas. These trends, coupled with the decline in average household size, suggest a society adapting to modernization and technological advancement.



Eleanor Yates: Looking ahead, what are the key takeaways from this census data for Morocco’s future?





Dr.Nadia El Mouden: The 2024 census paints a picture of a nation in transition. Morocco’s future success hinges on addressing the challenges of an aging population, rising unemployment, and regional disparities while harnessing the strengths of its youthful workforce and its growing urban centres. Implementing effective social policies, promoting inclusive economic growth, and investing in education and infrastructure will be crucial to navigating these challenges and seizing the opportunities that lie ahead.