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Morocco World
22-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Huawei Digital Morocco Summit 2025: Building an AI-Powered Future
Doha – Huawei organized the latest edition of its Digital Morocco Summit on April 15, alongside GITEX Africa 2025. The event gathered over 200 public decision-makers, industry experts, and technology leaders under the theme 'Amplify Intelligence: Shaping the Future with Digital Morocco 2030.' The summit featured high-profile speakers including Mohammed Drissi Melyani, Director General of the Digital Development Agency, and David Li, General Manager of Huawei Morocco, alongside international experts Wilson Xavier from IDC and Hytham Wang from Huawei. Local leaders enriched the discussions, including Moulay Hfid Zmirli from Wilaya of Marrakech, Mohamed Saad from Casablanca Stock Exchange, and Youssef Largou from PowerM. The panel also included Ilham Laaziz El Malti from the Ministry of National Education, Naoual Berbiche from the Ministry of Higher Education, Hatim Bakkali from GBS-GSM Al Maghrib Business Solutions, Hicham Chiguer from AUSIM, and others who shared perspectives on AI transformation across industries. Intelligent infrastructure for digital economy growth The summit sparked substantive discussion about building a resilient Moroccan digital ecosystem through public-private synergies. David Li stated, 'The construction of new infrastructure is the cornerstone of any ambitious digital transformation. Morocco has exceptional potential to establish itself as a regional hub for intelligent connectivity, cloud computing, and applied artificial intelligence.' To meet this challenge, Huawei is deploying its full range of AI capabilities: network infrastructure and data centers, proprietary chipsets, cloud platforms, AI models, and development environments. The goal is to support partners and clients in this new technological era, aiming to modernize infrastructure, digitize key economic sectors, improve public services, and enhance operational efficiency at all levels — aligning with the ambitions of the Digital Morocco 2030 program. 'In Morocco, For Morocco' Following its 'In Morocco, For Morocco' philosophy, Huawei reaffirmed its 20-year commitment to the country's digital development. The company has placed R&D at the core of its growth strategy, investing more than 20% of its annual revenue in research and development. With over $170 billion invested over the past decade, Huawei ranks among the world's top five companies in R&D investment. Huawei's approach focuses on supporting Moroccan government bodies in implementing a national AI platform, accelerating AI adoption in strategic sectors, and establishing an ICT Talent Academy to make Morocco a regional hub for digital skills. 'We are committed to supporting Moroccan economic sectors in their digital transition by offering cutting-edge technologies and a collaborative approach based on agility,' said David Li. 'Our expertise in AI and cloud computing, combined with our local presence, illustrates our desire to actively participate in national digital development.' Smart energy at the heart of the green revolution The summit also underlined Morocco's energy transition. Ahmed Rouizem, Technical Director of Smart PV at Huawei Northern Africa, said: 'We are on the cusp of a new era, where low-carbon energy production, network digitalization, and intelligent consumption are becoming the pillars of cleaner, safer development.' Huawei presented its Digital Power solutions, including Smart String ESS systems, intelligent microgrids, and integrated commercial and industrial solutions. The Huawei Digital Morocco Summit 2025 brought forth a strong shared conviction that Morocco's digital transformation must be based on intelligence, inclusion, and long-term cooperation. 'The convergence between artificial intelligence, cloud, and clean energy is not a distant projection, but a reality already underway. We are determined to build a digitally prosperous, energy-resilient, and more inclusive Morocco,' concluded David Li. This event confirmed Huawei's role as a technology partner committed to supporting Morocco's aspirations for strong and sustainable digital transformation. Read also: Morocco, Huawei Partner to Launch 'DigiSchool' Initiative

Zawya
15-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
GITEX AFRICA Morocco's third edition opens to the continent's largest gathering of globally influential tech leaders, government officials and innovators
GITEX AFRICA Morocco ( the continent's largest tech and startup show today opened its doors to the biggest players across the local, regional and international digital landscapes, turning the city of Marrakech into an epicentre of advanced technology, talent, and transformation. Running until 16 April, GITEX AFRICA Morocco is held under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, May God Assist Him, the authority of the Kingdom's Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, in partnership with Digital Development Agency (ADD), and organised by KAOUN International – the overseas event agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and organiser of GITEX events globally. Her Excellency, Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Government of Morocco opened the show's inauguration ceremony to welcome participants from over 130 countries, 1,450 exhibitors, 350 global investors, and 650 conference speakers. The opening address was delivered as part of the inauguration panel session made up from key dignitaries, including H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity, Government of the United Arab Emirates, and Mr. Chakib Alj, the President of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM). Her Excellency, Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Government of Morocco, said: ' GITEX AFRICA affirms the growing importance of the digital economy, which represents today 15% of global GDP, or some $6.5 trillion. Aware of the challenges of this digital revolution, the Kingdom of Morocco is actively committed to building a future where digitalization, and through it AI, constitutes a lever for progress, for the benefit of all. It is in this sense that His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, affirmed in his speech to the Extraordinary Summit of heads of state and government of the African Union in Kigali, in March 2018: 'Africa is on its way to becoming a global digital laboratory.' A wise and enlightened vision that continues to guide the initiatives of our country and our continent.' Mr. Mohammed Drissi Melyani, Director General of the Digital Development Agency, said: 'This international event, organised under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI may God Assist Him, has become one of the most prominent digital and technological gatherings on the African and international levels. It is no longer just an occasion to showcase the latest innovations, but has become a strategic place to strengthen digital inclusion between African countries, to build bridges of cooperation with our international partners, and to accelerate the pace of sustainable digital transformation. This reflects our firm ambition and strong commitment to achieve an inclusive digital transition and to establishing a new digital culture that prioritises the advancement of administration, entrepreneurial fabric, and society, as well as to build of a developed and competitive digital economy.' Trixie LohMirmand, Chief Executive Officer, KAOUN International, said: ' As we enter the third edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco, there is a strong sense of momentum and purpose. This event has evolved into a powerful platform driving Africa's digital future and, with AI at the forefront of global innovation, Morocco is positioning itself as a hub for an incredible transformation across the continent. This is backed by ambitious national strategies, a vibrant ecosystem of startups, and growing international partnerships. GITEX AFRICA Morocco serves not just as a showcase agenda-defining tech, but also as a catalyst for collaboration, investment, and scaling, connecting African innovators and talent with global markets and empowering the next generation to build, revolutionise, and lead the AI economy.' This year GITEX AFRICA Morocco is primed to forge new partnerships and explore new industries, thereby elevating its influence and impact on Africa's digital landscape even further. The 2025 edition presents an expanded agenda and representation from new countries from the African, European and Asian continents including, Belgium, Gabon, Niger, Switzerland, Uzbekistan, Zambia. In addition to the show's traditional focus on AI, cybersecurity, and telecoms the event will also cover energy transition, mobility, edutech, sports technologies, and agritech. GITEX AFRICA Morocco returns for its third year with support from institutional partners: ANRT, Royal Air Maroc, ONCF, OCP, ONDA, AMDIE, ONMT and CGEM. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa. Digital Press Kit: Click here ( Media Contact: Sean Muir, Director – PR Tel.: + 971 58 597 2697 PR Media: Sami Saber – Media relations director Tel.: + 212 66 139 9976 On social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: YouTube: Website: Hashtag: #GITEXAFRICA About KAOUN International: KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word 'universe', KAOUN International's mission is to 'Create Limitless Connections' for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC's events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC's extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine.


Ya Biladi
14-04-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
GITEX Africa 2025 kicks off in Marrakech with 45,000 participants and 1,400 exhibitors
The 3rd edition of GITEX Africa kicked off in Marrakech on Monday, attracting more than 45,000 participants and over 1,400 exhibitors from more than 130 countries. The opening ceremony of this major event was marked by a pre-recorded video address from the Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch, and the presence of government members, national and international investors, representatives of government institutions, speakers, and personalities from various fields. This year's edition of GITEX Africa features a range of sector-specific conferences, innovative initiatives in the creative industry, and high-value networking forums. This annual event represents a new milestone in Morocco's positioning as a key platform for digital innovation in Africa. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, in partnership with the Digital Development Agency (ADD), the event aims to foster synergies between governments, investors, entrepreneurs, and digital leaders. One of the highlights of this year's event will be the «Africa Future Connectivity» summit, an exclusive platform bringing together telecom, cloud computing, and data center giants. The summit will explore the impact of broadband, 5G deployment, and cloud technologies while encouraging public-private partnerships to shape the continent's digital future. The Diaspora Studio, a space dedicated to connecting African talent on a global scale, is also planned, with the goal of fostering investment opportunities, cross-border partnerships, and the transfer of expertise between the diaspora and local technology ecosystems. GITEX Africa Morocco is also focusing on EdTech, AgriTech, HealthTech, and SportsTech, reinforcing its ambition to make technology a driver of socio-economic transformation in Africa.

Zawya
10-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Morocco sets the stage for Africa's digital future ahead of continental launchpad event for innovation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital leadership in Marrakech
Morocco will once again play a pivotal role in shaping Africa's digital landscape. As the country continues to develop as a tech-driven hub, it has become a regional reference for the continent's recognition as global force in technology – with innovation and AI at its core. That was the message delivered by a panel of speakers during the GITEX AFRICA Morocco press conference in Rabat, ahead of the continent's largest tech and startup event opening in Marrakech from 14-16 April 2025. With a focus on powering Africa's innovation-driven future, the event is held under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, May God Assist Him, the authority of the Kingdom's Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, in partnership with Digital Development Agency (ADD), and organised by KAOUN International – the overseas event agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and organiser of GITEX events globally. Mrs Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Government of Morocco, said: 'Morocco's choice to host this major continental event, which is an annual showcase allowing the world to discover Africa's digital and technological talents and potential, is the result of rigorous and sustained work aimed at making our country a regional digital hub. It is also part of the implementation of the High Royal Guidelines of His Majesty the King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, who called for the training of qualified skills in the various digital fields, the anchoring of a culture of responsible digitalisation within society and the development of technological infrastructures capable to keep abreast of rapid changes in the sector should be developed.' Mr. Mohammed Drissi Melyani, Director General of the Digital Development Agency, said: 'GITEX Africa Morocco has become a major annual milestone on the global tech agenda and a defining moment in the continent's digital transformation. It seamlessly blends innovation, investment, research, and institutional collaboration, making it much more than a simple technology exhibition. It reflects the vision of a continent that no longer settles for consuming technology but is determined to create it—one that doesn't just keep pace with innovation but plays an active role in steering its course.' Trixie LohMirmand, Chief Executive Officer, KAOUN International, said: ' This third edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco shall usher the African economies into the epoch of Ai evolution. Great opportunities for businesses and societies ensue, but first with the collective commitment to develop capacity for the transition. GITEX AFRICA will converge in Morocco global ecosystem experts and enablers to empower and inspire stakeholders in their mission.' While GITEX AFRICA Morocco is set to welcome more than 45,000 visitors and participants from over 130 countries, the show has grown to feature over 1,450 exhibitors with new countries represented within the African continent – from Gabon, Niger, and Zambia – as well as markets across Europe and Asia – including Belgium, Switzerland and Uzbekistan. Fuelling Africa's startup ecosystem As funding for African startups rebounds to pre-pandemic levels, exceeding $2 billion, international startup investing powerhouses have turned their attention to Africa's startup ecosystem. The European Innovation Council (EIC) – Europe's largest deep-tech investor – will attend GITEX AFRICA Morocco across its conference and workshop tracks, while the International Finance Corporation (IFC) will host 10 standout African startups as part of its SheWins Africa programme on the show floor. Bolstering EIC and IFH's attendance across 1,500 facilitated meetings is a contingency of more than 350 investors from 35 countries ready to meet entrepreneurs and enterprises head on to satisfy the demand for sustainable and viable tech solutions. With over $200 billion assets under management, investors from the likes of AFRICINVEST, techstars, and Ventures Platform are ready to fund Africa's next big idea. African and international startups will come into focus across a number of show features, including an onstage interview with Awa Gueye from Africa's billion dollar start up, Wave Mobile Money; the Supernova Challenge – Africa's largest early-stage startup competition – set to supercharge new companies with an seasoned judging panel; the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform in partnerships with the Digital Development Agency (ADD) will boost the globalisation of Moroccan startups through Morocco 200; and GITEX AFRICA Morocco's startup showcase, serving as a bridging point between visitors, innovators and disruptors. International tech giants debut at GITEX AFRICA's third edition International tech organisations will also make a debut at the show, looking to seize on growth opportunities during the three days, forging new partnerships and showcasing their latest tech innovations. These include tech giants Cisco, Ericsson, Nokia, China Mobile and Salesforce. Further afield, Saudi Made – a celebration of the of the Kingdom's technical innovation, creative talent and business acumen, and Presight, part of the G42 group, the leading big data analytics company powered by AI – represent a strong Middle East presence. Building on the resounding success of previous editions, GITEX AFRICA Morocco is primed to forge new partnerships and explore new industries, thereby elevating its influence and impact on Africa's digital landscape even further. The 2025 edition presents an expanded agenda beyond its traditional focus on AI, cybersecurity, telecoms to cover, energy transition, mobility, edutech, sports technologies, and agritech. GITEX AFRICA Morocco returns for its third year with support from institutional partners: ANRT, Royal Air Maroc, ONCF, OCP, ONDA, AMDIE, ONMT and CGEM. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa. Digital Press Kit: Click here ( Media Contact: Sean Muir, Director – PR Tel.: + 971 58 597 2697 PR Media: Sami Saber – Media relations director Tel.: + 212 66 139 9976 On social media: Facebook: Instagram: Twitter: LinkedIn: YouTube: Website: Hashtag: #GITEXAFRICA About KAOUN International: KAOUN International is the independent events company and wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) established to organize and manage events internationally. Derived from the Arabic word 'universe', KAOUN International's mission is to 'Create Limitless Connections' for the industries and markets in which it operates. Created to leverage the 40-year legacy of DWTC's events management business and drive future MICE sector opportunity in the MENASA region. KAOUN International delivers game-changing live experiences that build robust business connections, create opportunity, and stimulate economic growth, building on DWTC's extensive portfolio of business and consumer events spanning multiple sectors, including technology, food and hospitality, sustainability, broadcast and satellite, automotive, talent development and leisure marine.


Ya Biladi
05-04-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Morocco's GITEX Africa : Catalyzing innovation and digital growth in Africa
GITEX Africa Morocco is generating tangible benefits and added value for local ecosystems, positioning Morocco as an essential destination for innovation, stated Mohammed Drissi Melyani, the Director General of the Digital Development Agency (ADD), on Friday in Rabat. According to the official, «84% of exhibitors expressed their desire to establish or expand their presence in Morocco and Africa, thanks to the connections and networks established during the event. This demonstrates the event's ability to generate tangible benefits for local ecosystems,» said Mohammed Drissi Melyani during the press conference dedicated to the presentation of GITEX Africa, which will take place from April 14 to 16 in Marrakech. The measurable impacts of previous editions of GITEX Africa Morocco highlight the concrete influence of the event on Moroccan and African digital ecosystems and strongly reflect the enthusiasm it has generated since its inception, he argued. For him, this success reflects the vision of an innovative and ambitious Africa—an Africa that no longer endures digital transformation but shapes it, that no longer follows innovation but drives it. «For this third edition, over 1,500 exhibitors, 800 startups, 350 investors, 400 international speakers, and more than 130 countries will converge in Marrakech,» specified the ADD Director General, noting that the event will offer certified training sessions, as well as explore emerging themes, while providing a platform for exchanges, debates, and South-South cooperation in the spirit of inclusive innovation. The Moroccan participation in this edition is expected to be both ambitious and strategic, he assessed, noting that thanks to the «Morocco 200» program. «This initiative, bolstered by a preparatory bootcamp, aims to propel Moroccan innovation onto the global stage,» he revealed. He added that the E-Gov space, coordinated by the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform and the ADD, will bring together more than 25 ministerial departments in a 500 m² pavilion to showcase a hundred digital services and solutions. This pavilion aims to concretely demonstrate the firm commitment and calm involvement of the Moroccan public administration ecosystem to transform, modernize, innovate, and bring public services closer to users and citizens, he concluded.