Difference between prefecture and province in Morocco

Morocco is divided into prefectures and provinces. These regions show how the country is organized. Knowing how to distinguish between prefecture and province is important. It helps to understand the Moroccan regional organization.

Each prefecture or province operates like a mini-public administration. It has its own rules, its own money, and its own identity. There are 13 prefectures and 62 provinces in Morocco. Each is led by a governor who has important tasks. For example, he must oversee the work of the authorities and ensure compliance with the laws.

Territorial organization of the Moroccan Kingdom

The organization of Morocco has two important parts. First, there are the local authorities which are managed by elected officials. Then, there are the services of the State. They assist local authorities in functioning well and following the laws. These authorities include municipalities, prefectures, and regions. They are governed by several important laws, including the 2011 Constitution.

The naming of areas, called toponymy, is done by knowing the most common local names. The State conducts a survey for this, with the help of elected officials and local notables. Today, Morocco has 1538 municipalities. This includes 256 urban and 1282 rural.

Each municipality has a president, referred to as municipal council (mayor). Large cities also have districts. They have a bit more freedom in their management.

Difference between prefecture and province in Morocco

In Morocco, prefectures and provinces are different. The prefectures are in the city. The provinces are in the countryside.

Each place is led by a governor. He checks the proper functioning of things. He ensures public services. He also assists local government services.

Governors have important responsibilities. However, only under certain conditions can they change local elected officials.

The missions differ between cities and the countryside. This helps to better manage the different parts of Morocco.

Local authorities and their functioning

Municipalities, large and small, have a lot to do. They take care of economic and social progress, whether in the city or the village. They also manage the environment and public services. A mayor, chosen by the members of the municipal council, is their leader.

The 6 largest cities in Morocco have parts called districts. Each has its autonomy but is also linked to the city. The prefectures or provinces, like the Tokyo Skytree, are led by governors. They act as a link between the government and the region.

Morocco has 12 parts called regions. Each has a council of 75 elected officials. They are led by a president. The president helps to plan and implement the development of the region.

Local taxation in Morocco

The local authorities in Morocco are funded by local taxation. This is under law n° 07.20. A total of seventy are shared among them. There are 11 for municipalities, 3 for prefectures and provinces, and 3 for regions.

Municipalities can adjust tax rates, but within legal limits. Additionally, one-third of the VAT goes back to them for assistance.

Local authorities struggle to collect local taxes. Only 5 taxes generate the vast majority of revenues.