GITEX AFRICA Morocco opened its fourth edition in Marrakech as the continent’s largest AI technology and startup show. It convened global technology leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators. The event aims to support Africa’s next phase of digital growth.

The event is taking place from 7–9 April in Marrakech, a key hub for regional and international gatherings. It focuses on artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and frontier technologies. These technologies are reshaping Africa’s economic and societal systems. Transitioning toward digital sovereignty, the event also addresses connectivity, intra-African trade, and domestic innovation.

The event is held under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI. It is also under the authority of the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform. The Digital Development Agency (ADD) hosts the event. KAOUN International organizes it as the global organiser of GITEX events.

The official inauguration ceremony was led by Aziz Akhannouch, Head of Government of the Kingdom of Morocco. He welcomed an international delegation of government leaders, global enterprises, and institutional partners to Marrakech. He stated that Africa has the talent, energy, and ambition needed for growth. However, it requires structured funding, targeted support for entrepreneurs, training programmes, and integrated markets. He also affirmed Morocco’s readiness for digital investment, supported by institutional stability and political commitment.

Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister Delegate in charge of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, highlighted Morocco’s technological ambition. She emphasized building a technological power focused on uniting innovation with development and the common good on a global scale.

Chakib Alj, President of the General Confederation of Moroccan Enterprises (CGEM), noted that artificial intelligence is now a core economic infrastructure. He stressed that the focus is no longer on whether to engage with AI, but how quickly and strategically to do so.

The inauguration session also included global and regional dignitaries. Mouhamadou Youssifou, Dean of the African diplomatic corps accredited in Morocco, said AI is now a development accelerator. He added that digital sovereignty is essential for African countries. He stressed the need for ethical, transparent, and inclusive AI systems that support rural and vulnerable populations.

Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, highlighted the role of digital technologies in unlocking Africa’s potential. He pointed to GITEX as a platform for digital innovation, cross-border collaboration, and trade integration. He also referenced the digital trade protocol as a major opportunity for Africa to advance its position in global innovation.

Richard Duke Buchan III, Ambassador of the United States of America to Morocco, praised Morocco’s progress. He noted its transformation into a hub of stability, development, and opportunity, driven by visionary leadership.

Amine El Mezouaghi, Director General of the Digital Development Agency, said the focus has shifted from keeping up with digital transformation to actively shaping it. He emphasized investment, stakeholder cooperation, and South-South collaboration as key drivers of Africa’s digital progress.

The programme reflects Africa’s evolving digital agenda with expanded focus areas. These include data centre intelligent infrastructure, cybersecurity, fintech, financial inclusion, future mobility, and smart cities. This demonstrates the growing importance of integrated digital ecosystems across sectors.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of GITEX AFRICA Morocco, said Morocco stands at a strategic intersection of investment, policy, and partnerships. She highlighted how the event connects Africa to global networks, technologies, and opportunities. She added that Morocco and Africa are positioned to emerge as global stakeholders in the digital economy.

In parallel, North Star Africa, the continent’s largest startup showcase, brings together over 800 startups and more than 400 global investors. These investors manage significant capital. This reinforces the event’s role in linking African startups with international funding and markets.

As stakeholders gather in Marrakech, GITEX AFRICA Morocco continues to serve as a global platform where policy, capital, and technology align to support Africa’s digitally connected and competitive future.

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