Marrakech, Morocco — The fourth edition of GITEX Africa Morocco was launched today, marking the beginning of a three-day gathering in the heart of Africa’s technology and digital economy scene. Over 1,450 exhibitors and startups, spanning 145 countries, descended upon Marrakech for what organizers tout as the largest such event on the continent. Running under the theme “Catalyzing Africa’s Digital Economy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” the event is a collaboration between the Digital Development Agency (ADD) and KAOUN International, with support from Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform.
The opening ceremony featured prominent figures, including Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch, Minister Delegate for Digital Transition Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, and US Ambassador to Morocco Richard Duke Buchan III, among others. Akhannouch highlighted the transformation of the digital sector in Morocco, noting a significant increase in the country’s investment budget, which has surged from MAD 11 million ($1. 1 million) in 2021 to over MAD 1.
7 billion ($170 million) in 2024. He emphasized Morocco’s commitment to becoming a global hub for digital innovation and investment.
The government’s efforts have resulted in Morocco’s climb of 14 places in the government AI readiness index in 2025 and a targeted 45% population coverage for 5G deployment by the end of 2026. The nation has also achieved notable milestones, such as exceeding 1.4 million fiber-optic home subscriptions and attracting significant investment in cloud computing, which has generated over 700 jobs.
The scale of GITEX Africa 2026 reflects its growing significance as an international platform for digital innovation. With an expected 55,000 attendees, over 700 international speakers, and around 400 investors managing over $350 billion in assets, the event is a testament to the continent’s digital growth and potential. This year, countries such as Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Guinea, Hungary, Luxembourg, Thailand, and Zambia are participating for the first time, expanding the event’s reach.
Morocco is positioning itself as a key player in the digital landscape, not only as a hub for technology but as a bridge connecting Africa to Europe and the Atlantic. Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni described Morocco as a “balancing technological power,” emphasizing its role in a new model of sovereignty that prioritizes innovation and responsibility.
North Star Africa, a highlight of the event, showcases more than 800 startups from both local and international scenes. The “Morocco 300″initiative, aimed at bolstering the nation’s startup ecosystem, is also in full swing, offering comprehensive support to emerging businesses. France’s Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence, Anne Le Hénanff, was present to underscore the strong partnership between France and Morocco in the digital sector.
With sustainability and greentech at the forefront, organizers have emphasized the role of digital innovation, particularly AI, in advancing sustainable development across the continent. The event is set to continue until April 9, offering a rich program of networking, discussions, and showcasing of technological advancements at Marrakech’s Place Bab Jdid.
Source: moroccoworldnews
