Marrakech — At GITEX Africa Morocco 2026, Omar Hilale, Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations, highlighted the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing its impact on economic competitiveness, national security, and geopolitical balance. “Artificial intelligence is no longer simply an asset or a technological tool; it has now become a lever of power, “he said underscoring its significance in reshaping global power dynamics.
Hilale pointed to the rapid expansion of the AI market, predicting it will reach $1 trillion in 2025 and potentially soar to $5 trillion by 2033. However, he cautioned against the inequality inherent in this growth, noting that the African market captures only 2. 5% of the global share and 1.
5% of investments. This disparity represents a strategic vulnerability for African countries, which risk becoming passive consumers rather than active participants in AI development.
The situation is further exacerbated by a lack of AI regulations and national strategies among UN member states. “90% do not have specific AI regulations, and 55% do not have a national strategy, “Hilale noted. This governance gap creates an asymmetry where technology advances outpace regulatory frameworks, particularly in emerging markets.
Hilale challenged the global community to address these challenges, referencing the 2024 adoption of the Global Digital Compact by the United Nations. However, he acknowledged that progress remains incomplete and disordered, with multiple forums aiming to coordinate efforts but falling short. “The gap is not only widening in terms of access but also in terms of the capacity to use and appropriate these technologies, “he.
Calling for international cooperation, Hilale emphasized the need for concrete mechanisms to generate shared dividends, particularly in training, knowledge sharing, and infrastructure financing. His keynote underscored GITEX Africa Morocco 2026 as a pivotal event where strategic narratives are contested and a future in AI governance is debated.
Hilale’s remarks positioned Morocco as a potential leader in AI, encouraging the nation to build on its progress and create initiatives that showcase national expertise and innovation. “Morocco is ready to move from hosting global tech events to creating its own platform that showcases national expertise and innovation, “he said emphasizing the importance of international partnerships and the need for a collective effort to ensure AI does not deepen global inequalities.
Source: moroccoworldnews
Original author: Majda Bouzaroita
