[WORLD] The 60th International Rose Festival in Kalaat M’Gouna, Morocco, has concluded, highlighting the region's rich heritage and the pivotal role of the Damask rose in its economy and culture. Held from May 5 to 8, 2025, the festival attracted thousands of visitors and underscored the significance of the rose industry in the Draa-Tafilalet region.
A Blossoming Tradition
Situated in the High Atlas Mountains, Kalaat M’Gouna is renowned for cultivating the Damask rose (Rosa damascena), a flower integral to the local economy and culture. The 2025 harvest yielded approximately 4,800 tons of roses, surpassing the average of 3,500 tons in previous years. This increase is attributed to favorable climatic conditions, including abundant rainfall and mild temperatures.
The cultivation of Damask roses in this region dates back to the 10th century, when the aromatic flower is believed to have been introduced by pilgrims returning from the Middle East. Over centuries, it has become a symbol of both economic resilience and spiritual significance for the Berber communities of southern Morocco. Local families have preserved traditional cultivation techniques passed down through generations, blending ancestral knowledge with evolving agricultural practices.
The festival transformed the town into a vibrant celebration, with rose-themed decorations adorning streets, taxis, and public spaces. Visitors experienced traditional Berber music, dance performances, and a variety of rose-infused products, from perfumes to culinary delights.
This year, the festival also featured workshops and conferences focused on sustainable agriculture and eco-tourism. Experts and local cooperatives shared insights on adapting rose farming to climate change, promoting organic methods, and minimizing water use—crucial considerations in Morocco’s arid landscape. These educational initiatives aimed to equip farmers with tools to future-proof their livelihoods and conserve the region’s fragile ecosystem.
Economic and Social Impact
The rose industry provides employment for many, particularly women who engage in the labor-intensive process of harvesting. Despite the challenging work conditions and modest wages averaging $8–10 per day, these women are central to the success of the industry.
In recent years, women-led cooperatives have emerged as a vital force in transforming the industry. These cooperatives allow female workers to gain a stronger foothold in the supply chain by producing and marketing rose-derived products independently. Supported by NGOs and government programs, such efforts aim to enhance gender equity and economic inclusion while adding value locally.
The cultivation and processing of roses into products like rosewater and rose oil have bolstered the local economy. These products are not only popular domestically but have also found markets internationally, contributing to the region's economic development.
According to the Moroccan Ministry of Agriculture, the rose sector generates annual revenues of over 100 million dirhams (approximately $10 million USD). The government has classified Damask rose cultivation as a strategic niche market, providing support through its Green Morocco Plan, which includes subsidies for small-scale producers and funding for modernization of distillation units.
Cultural Significance
The Damask rose holds deep cultural importance in Morocco, symbolizing beauty, resilience, and tradition. Its presence is evident in various aspects of Moroccan life, from traditional wellness practices to festive celebrations. The Rose Festival serves as a platform to honor this heritage and promote the sustainable development of the rose industry.
Looking Ahead
The success of the 60th International Rose Festival has prompted discussions on expanding rose cultivation and improving processing techniques. Initiatives are underway to enhance the quality of rose products and increase their global competitiveness, ensuring that the Damask rose continues to thrive as a symbol of Morocco's cultural and economic vitality.
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