Morocco is rapidly emerging as a leading digital force in Africa, with countries across the continent turning to Rabat for expertise on artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
A recent example of this growing influence came when Gabon’s Minister of Digital Economy, Mark-Alexandre Doumba, visited Morocco to explore AI development and digital skills training partnerships. This meeting, held on November 3, underscores a key trend: African nations now see Morocco not just as a peer, but as a trailblazer whose digital roadmap others seek to replicate.
During the discussions, Doumba expressed Gabon’s desire to draw inspiration from Morocco’s success. Both sides agreed to collaborate on AI education, data analytics, and digital learning via Moroccan platforms. This partnership aligns with Gabon’s goal to reduce reliance on resource extraction by pivoting toward a more digital economy—an area Morocco has already mastered.
Morocco’s Digital Excellence Becomes a Continental Model
Morocco’s rise as a preferred digital partner is driven by its impressive track record. The country ranked 90th globally and fourth in Africa on the UN’s 2024 E-Government Development Index, scoring 0.6841—above both regional and global averages.
This recognition highlights Morocco’s well-structured approach to digital growth, which gained momentum with the “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy launched in 2023. The strategy aims to strengthen existing digital infrastructures while fast-tracking social and economic development via technology.
Morocco’s ambitions extend far beyond its borders. In September, Morocco joined forces with the UN Development Programme to establish the Digital Morocco for Sustainable Development (D4SD Hub), a platform dedicated to promoting inclusive digital growth across Arab and African nations.
Fostering a Future-Ready Africa
Morocco’s digital ambitions are focused on becoming a regional hub for innovation, nurturing startups, and driving opportunities in sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and e-health. The country plans to generate over 270,000 digital jobs by 2030, with 100,000 young people trained annually in essential digital skills.
These efforts resonate with nations like Gabon, which, in 2025, will join Morocco’s expanding network of digital partners, including Turkiye, Botswana, and Saudi Arabia. The UNDP’s acknowledgment of Morocco’s strategic position as a digital hub between Africa and the Arab world further solidifies its importance.
By connecting the Arab-African region to the global digital economy, Morocco isn’t just advancing its own interests—it’s creating new opportunities for growth across the continent. The D4SD initiative exemplifies this approach, offering a blueprint for improving governance, public services, and economic development across participating nations.
Leading by Example and Sharing Knowledge
What sets Morocco apart is its collaborative approach. The country actively shares its expertise and innovations through bilateral partnerships, ensuring that its technological advancements benefit neighboring countries facing similar challenges.
As African nations increasingly recognize that digital transformation is essential for competing in the modern world, Morocco’s role as both a model and a mentor becomes more critical. The country’s willingness to support and guide other nations fosters a ripple effect that accelerates the entire continent’s digital journey.
