Drought worsens Morocco’s unemployment rate to 13.1%

Morocco’s unemployment rate surged to 13.1% on the back of persisting drought in the first half this year, compared with 12.4% the same period last year.

Youth unemployment, in particular, soared to 36%, with 19% reported among degree holders, the high commission for planning HCP said.

The total number of the unemployed in Morocco grew to 1.63 million, as drought slashed jobs by 141,000, notably in rural areas.

Industry created 58,000 jobs and services 49,000, mostly in cities, it said.