SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE RIF REGION: POTENTIALS AND CONSTRAINTS OF TERRITORIAL RESOURCES IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF ABDELGHAYA SOUAHEL

This article examines the challenges of sustainable development in the mountainous commune of Abdelghaya Souahel (Central Rif), a region rich in natural and cultural resources but facing multiple pressures: environmental degradation, isolation, unsustainable agricultural practices (including cannabis cultivation), and socioeconomic marginalization.These pressures have negative repercussions on the economic and social situation of the population.Added to this is the traditional and irrational exploitation of territorial resources, which is leading to an accelerated rate of environmental deterioration, such as the uprooting of forests and the spread of kif cultivation.The study combines geographical and socioeconomic approaches to analyze these issues, drawing on qualitative (interviews, observations) and quantitative (GIS, climate indicators) data.The study highlights the urgent need for a balanced development model for Abdelghaya Souahel, reconciling ecological preservation and social inclusion.Solutions require participatory territorial governance and investments tailored to the specific characteristics of mountain areas.