Latest news with #SaadBerradaSounni
Morocco World
12-05-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Africorp Consortium and UM6P Partner to Drive Morocco's Tech and Scientific Growth
Rabat – In a major step toward strengthening Morocco's innovation ecosystem, Africorp Consortium, a leading industrial and investment group chaired by Saad Berrada Sounni, has entered a strategic partnership with Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). The agreement, signed today during the Deeptech Summit 2025, sets the stage for joint research, digital transformation, and sustainable industrial development. The collaboration will focus on AI, industrial optimization, and digital process automation, with plans to establish joint research labs and facilitate technology transfers. The partnership also extends to agriculture, where both entities will develop high-value farming solutions, and mining, with an emphasis on sustainable extraction methods. Education is also situated at the heart of this partnership. Africorp and UM6P will design specialized training programs, support entrepreneurship, and integrate advanced learning technologies to nurture Morocco's future talent. Another key pillar of the agreement is the support for DeepTech startups that align with Africorp's industrial needs. The partners will promote open innovation, encouraging employees to develop new solutions in industrial fintech, data management, and green technologies. Jaafar Harti, CEO of Africorp Consortium, noted the partnership's broader impact. 'This partnership with UM6P reflects our commitment to position Africorp Consortium at the forefront of technological innovation and sustainability, benefiting our industrial, agricultural, mining, and educational sectors,' he said. 'Together, we aim to address tomorrow's challenges while creating value for our nation and our continent.' The deal was signed by Abdellatif Souhail, CEO of Africorp's Industry Division, and Yassine Laghzioui, CEO of UM6P Ventures, marking a new chapter in Morocco's push toward a knowledge-based economy. It comes as Morocco steadily positions itself as a regional leader in tech and innovation. By bridging academia and industry, this partnership looks to accelerate job creation, skills development, and homegrown technological solutions, which are key drivers for long-term economic resilience. Tags: AfricorpDeepTechMorocco DeeptechUM6PUM6P Ventures
Morocco World
15-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Africorp Mining Wins ONHYM Tender for Copper Site in Central Morocco
Rabat – Africorp Mining has won an international call for tenders issued by Morocco's National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) to operate the Naour copper deposit in the province of Beni Mellal. The project carries a total investment of over MAD 230 million ($23 million), with more than MAD 30 million ($3 million) allocated to acquire the operating license. The operation will be led by Merija Mining, a subsidiary of Africorp Mining and part of the wider Africorp Consortium chaired by Saad Berrada Sounni, the group´s majority shareholder. Located near the town of Ksiba, the Naour deposit signals a new chapter in the company's strategy to expand its footprint in Morocco's mining landscape. Africorp described the deal as a turning point for Merija, whose first venture in copper flotation began in 2019 in Bouarfa. That project is now fully operational and helped establish the company's credibility in the sector. Read also: Aterian Uncovers Gold, Silver, and Copper Deposits in Central Morocco According to company estimates, Naour contains more than 1.5 million tonnes of copper-bearing rock, with an average concentration of 1.5%. Projections show that the site could generate up to MAD 250 million ($25 million) in annual revenue by 2027. 'This project opens a new horizon for us,' said Mohamed Lazaar, President of Africorp Mining. 'It builds on the momentum we created in Bouarfa and gives real shape to other prospects we've been exploring.' The consortium sees the Naour development as more than a commercial milestone. It views the project as reflecting its efforts to structure business units around high-impact projects with long-term value for surrounding communities. 'Our goal has always been to support each division as it grows,' said Hassa Benjorfi, Vice President of Africorp Consortium. 'What we see with Merija is an example of how one well-executed project can anchor a broader industrial vision. Africorp Mining stands at the intersection of economic performance and national responsibility.' The project also aligns with Morocco's national mining strategy, which places growing importance on local value creation, environmental accountability, and regional development. In previous operations , Merija introduced solar-powered water pumps to nearby villages, supported local employment, and helped establish basic services in remote areas. With Naour, the company strives to deepen its role as an economic actor and territorial partner. Through this new step, Africorp Consortium confirms its intention to develop industry clusters with long-term potential while staying in step with Morocco's economic direction. Tags: Africorpcopper Moroccocopper siteONYHMONYHM Morocco
Ya Biladi
15-04-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Africorp Mining wins Naour tender, plans over 230 million dirhams investment
Africorp Mining has won an international tender from the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Mines (ONHYM) for the Naour deposit, with an investment exceeding 200 million dirhams (MDH) and more than 30 MDH for acquiring the exploitation license. «Merija Mining, a subsidiary of Africorp Mining, the mines and quarries division of Africorp Consortium, chaired by Mr. Saad Berrada Sounni, the majority shareholder, – takes a new strategic step by winning an international tender launched by ONHYM for the exploitation of the Naour deposit located in the province of Beni Mellal, near Ksiba,» stated a press release from Africorp Consortium. This new project, which will mobilize an investment of over 230 MDH, is part of Merija's development momentum, following the success of its initial mining operations in copper ore beneficiation through flotation, which began in 2019 in the Bouarfa (Talsint) region, now fully operational. The deposit has a potential estimated at over 1.5 million tonnes of resources, with an average concentration estimated at 1.5% copper. It represents a significant growth lever for the company, with a projected turnover of 250 MDH by 2027. Already recognized for its concrete actions in social responsibility at its operational sites – notably through local employment, equipping villages with solar pumps, and creating local services – Merija strengthens its role as an industrial and territorial catalyst through this new project.
Trade Arabia
10-02-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Intercoil seals strategic partnership with Africorp unit
Intercoil International, a leading UAE-based manufacturer, distributor and retailer of total sleep solutions across the GCC region, today (February 10) announced a strategic partnership with Dolidol, a member of Africorp Consortium Group. The alliance was formally announced during the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development summit in Qatar, in the presence of the Ministers of Industry and Trade from both the UAE and Morocco, thus highlighting the strengthening economic ties between the two nations. According to senior officials, the partnership brings together two established leaders in the bedding industry. Through its industrial division, Africorp Industry, the consortium operates one of Africa's most recognized bedding and foam manufacturing businesses under the Dolidol brand. This integration creates significant opportunities for technological innovation, sustainable manufacturing practices, and market expansion across the Middle East and Africa, said a statement from Intercoil. Intercoil is the exclusive Middle East licensee for international bedding brands Simmons and Therapedic partnerships spanning 15 and 23 years respectively, thus demonstrating its long-term commitment to premium quality and market leadership. "In our 50th anniversary year, this strategic partnership represents a significant opportunity for Intercoil's continued growth and development. The combination of our manufacturing expertise with Dolidol's industrial capabilities creates substantial opportunities for regional expansion and product innovation," remarked its CEO Hassan Abbas Al-Hazeem. The partnership outlines an ambitious development strategy across four key areas, supported by a planned investment of $55 million over five years, he added. Africorp Consortium Chairman Saad Berrada Sounni said: "The strategic partnership between Dolidol and Intercoil reflects our vision of an integrated industrial development between Africa and the Middle East." This partnership marks a significant step in regional industrial integration, creating a strong platform for growth in the Middle East and Africa's sleep solutions sector, he added.
Zawya
10-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Intercoil International and DOLIDOL, a member of AFRICORP Consortium Group, form strategic partnership
The official announcement of the joint venture partnership between Intercoil International and AFRICORP Consortium was made by Hassan Al Hazeem, CEO Intercoil International and Saad Berrada Sounni, Chairman of AFRICORP Consortium during the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development summit in Qatar, February 2025, in the presence of the Ministers of Industry and Trade from both the United Arab Emirates and Morocco, highlighting the strengthening economic ties between the two nations. Dubai, UAE - Intercoil International, a leading UAE-based manufacturer, distributor and retailer of total sleep solutions across the GCC region, today announced a strategic partnership with DOLIDOL, a member of AFRICORP Consortium Group. The alliance was formally announced during the Integrated Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Development summit in Qatar, February 2025, in the presence of the Ministers of Industry and Trade from both the United Arab Emirates and Morocco, highlighting the strengthening economic ties between the two nations. Intercoil International has established itself as a pioneer in promoting "Made in UAE" manufacturing excellence, operating state-of-the art manufacturing facilities in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and setting industry benchmarks in the production of premium sleep solutions. The partnership brings together two established leaders in the bedding industry. Through its industrial division, AFRICORP Industry, the consortium operates one of Africa's most recognized bedding and foam manufacturing businesses under the Dolidol brand. This integration creates significant opportunities for technological innovation, sustainable manufacturing practices, and market expansion across the Middle East and Africa. Intercoil is the exclusive Middle East licensee for international bedding brands Simmons® and Therapedic®, partnerships spanning 15 and 23 years respectively, demonstrating its long-term commitment to premium quality and market leadership. Hassan Abbas Al-Hazeem, CEO of Intercoil International, said: "In our 50th anniversary year, this strategic partnership represents a significant opportunity for Intercoil's continued growth and development. The combination of our manufacturing expertise with DOLIDOL's industrial capabilities creates substantial opportunities for regional expansion and product innovation." The partnership outlines an ambitious development strategy across four key areas, supported by a planned investment of $55 million over five years: Manufacturing Development: increase in production capacity at the UAE's Ras Al Khaimah plant, alongside a substantial expansion of Saudi Arabian operations through a new integrated manufacturing facility for foam, mattresses, and furniture production. Regional Retail Expansion: Launch of 20 new Intercoil showrooms across strategic locations in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Egypt. These showrooms will feature advanced technologies to enhance customer experience. Innovation Leadership: Development of new product lines incorporating smart sleep technology, including AI-powered diagnostics and connected sleep solutions. The R&D program will focus on developing proprietary technologies for comfort and durability. Sustainability Initiatives: Implementation of comprehensive environmental programs, including transition to solar energy at key manufacturing facilities and development of recyclable product lines. The partnership includes collaboration with research institutions to advance eco-friendly foam technologies. Saad Berrada Sounni, Chairman of AFRICORP Consortium, stated: "The strategic partnership between DOLIDOL and Intercoil reflects our vision of an integrated industrial development between Africa and the Middle East. We firmly believe that innovation, sustainability, and industrial excellence are the pillars of this alliance, which will benefit both consumers and the economies of both nations." This partnership marks a significant step in regional industrial integration, creating a strong platform for growth in the Middle East and Africa's sleep solutions sector. The combined expertise and market presence of both companies will drive innovation in sleep technology while setting new standards in sustainable manufacturing across the region. Dubai based boutique advisory firm Trident Consulting ( advised Intercoil and the Al Hazeem family on this transaction. About Intercoil International Established in 1974, Intercoil International is a UAE-based manufacturer, retailer, and distributor of premium sleep products. The company operates three manufacturing facilities: two in the UAE (Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah) and one in Saudi Arabia (Dammam), with a combined annual production capacity exceeding 400,000 mattresses and 10,000 tons of polyurethane foam. The company's product portfolio includes premium beds, bedding products, bedroom furniture, and polyurethane foam. Its manufacturing operations maintain international quality certifications including ISO 9001:2000, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001. Intercoil serves more than 50 hospitality clients and 100 corporate clients, including leading hotel chains and real estate developers. The company maintains a strong retail presence across the UAE and GCC region through company-owned stores and an established distribution network. About DOLIDOL Founded in 1972, Dolidol is a member of Africorp Consortium Gropup and an undisputed leader in the polyurethane foam and bedding sectors. With recognized expertise and a network of high-performance production units, the group operates in several African countries and continues its expansion into other strategic regions such as the Middle East. The group has 12 production units across five countries, including Morocco, Côte d'Ivoire since 2016—serving neighboring West African countries such as Ghana, Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and Liberia – Nigeria following the acquisition of Mouka in 2021, and the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia since early 2025. As part of its institutionalization process, Dolidol opened its capital to the private equity fund DPI in October 2018, enabling the company to pursue its development ambitions in line with its international strategic vision. About AFRICORP Consortium AFRICORP Consortium is a diversified business group with over 50 years of experience across multiple sectors including Industry & Distribution, Agriculture, Mining & Quarries, and Education. Through its industrial division, AFRICORP Industry, the group has established leadership positions in several manufacturing sectors. In the bedding and foam sector, its subsidiary Dolidol is a market leader in polyurethane foam and bedding manufacturing, operating ten production units across Africa and the Middle East. Dolidol holds licenses for major international brands and maintains a significant presence across multiple African markets. The group collaborates with leading financial institutions, including the International Finance Corporation (World Bank), Proparco, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and has established strong partnerships across various sectors. For media inquiries, please contact: Sama Al Shibani Mojo PR sama@
