Morocco pushes digital sovereignty agenda as AI reshapes global power

Friday 10 April 2026 - 13:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco pushes digital sovereignty agenda as AI reshapes global power

Morocco used GITEX Africa 2026 in Marrakech to advance its strategy on digital sovereignty, as officials highlighted the growing role of artificial intelligence in shaping economic, security, and political dynamics.

Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, minister in charge of digital transition and administrative reform, addressed a high-level panel on the third day of the event. She was joined by Anne Hennaf and Mark-Alexandre Doumba.

Speakers focused on how artificial intelligence has moved beyond innovation to become a core element of national sovereignty. They stressed that intensifying global technological competition is forcing countries to rethink their ability to act independently.

Seghrouchni said AI now plays a central role in defining modern sovereignty, shaping how states manage critical infrastructure and strategic capabilities.

Morocco’s approach is anchored in its Digital Morocco 2030 strategy, which aims to shift the country from a technology consumer to a regional producer. The plan includes training 100,000 digital professionals each year and building an ecosystem of 3,000 startups.

The event also served as a platform for strategic agreements. Morocco advanced a digital dialogue with the European Union and supported partnerships involving Mohammed VI Polytechnic University to connect African research with global supercomputing networks.

Officials said these initiatives are designed to secure control over critical digital assets while positioning Morocco as a link between Africa and international technology ecosystems.

GITEX Africa 2026 gathered participants from more than 130 countries, reinforcing its role as a major technology forum on the continent. Discussions highlighted the scale of opportunity, with artificial intelligence estimated to add up to $1.3 trillion to Africa’s GDP.

Moroccan officials said achieving these goals will require sustained investment and coordination, as the country seeks to take a leading role in shaping Africa’s digital future.