Berlin (Germany), September 24, 2025 (SPS) – A member of the Sahrawi Community Association in Germany, Amma Lahbib, affirmed that the issue of exploiting natural resources in Western Sahara through green hydrogen production projects represents a continuation of colonialism and a form of greenwashing for the Moroccan repression machine in Africa's last colony.
In an interview with the German newspaper "taz," the Sahrawi activist pointed out that the plundering and frantic exploitation of Sahrawi natural wealth by the Moroccan occupation and its northern partners are illegal activities. They are taking place in a territory occupied by an occupying authority that acts with impunity and without the consent of the Sahrawi people. She pointed out that green hydrogen projects, despite being marketed as environmental solutions, are being implemented on occupied lands, making them "blood-stained hydrogen" rather than "green hydrogen."
Amma Lahbib confirmed that these so-called green projects are being carried out at the expense of human rights. The Moroccan military occupation, which has been oppressing the Sahrawi people for 50 years, began with an aggressive war accompanied by war crimes and continues to be characterized by severe human rights violations to this day.
Sahrawis suffer from systematic violence, are forced to evacuate their homes, and their lands are demolished to make way for wind farms, green hydrogen production facilities, and tourism infrastructure.
She added that these activities are carried out amidst severe repression of human rights activists, who face censorship and control – there is no press freedom. The few brave journalists face violence and persecution, and there are many cases of kidnappings and rape, with people being imprisoned without trial.
Sahrawis also suffer from discrimination in the job market, where priority is given to Moroccan settlers.
However, despite the challenges, Amma Lahbib believes these projects might open an opportunity to start a global debate about the frantic depletion of Western Sahara and its natural resources, stating: "The only opportunity presented by these illegal activities is to open a critical debate. The Moroccan occupation of Western Sahara does not receive media or political attention in Germany. Now, with the emergence of renewable energy, there is a chance to talk about the source of this hydrogen, address the injustice happening, and affirm that it is illegal."
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