Morocco is on the verge of innovation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital awakening. The country has played a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s digital landscape as it continues to develop as a tech-driven hub – it has become a regional reference for the continent’s recognition as global force in technology.
That was the message delivered by a panel of speakers during the GITEX AFRICA Morocco press conference in Rabat, ahead of the continent’s tech and startup event set to take place in Marrakech from April 14-16 2025.
With a focus on powering Africa’s innovation-driven future, King Mohammed VI, the authority of the Kingdom’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, is the sponsor of the event in partnership with Digital Development Agency (ADD), and KAOUN International – the overseas event agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and organiser of GITEX events globally.
According to Mrs Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Morocco’s choice to host the major continental event, which is an annual showcase allowing the world to discover Africa’s digital and technological talents and potential, is the result of rigorous and sustained work aimed at making the country a regional digital hub.
“It is also part of the implementation of the High Royal Guidelines of His Majesty the King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, who called for the training of qualified skills in the various digital fields, the anchoring of a culture of responsible digitalisation within society and the development of technological infrastructures capable to keep abreast of rapid changes in the sector should be developed,” said Seghrouchni.
It is this third edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco that will usher the African economies into the epoch of AI evolution. But how significant is a two-day tech event for African countries? Mr. Mohammed Drissi Melyani, Director General of the Digital Development Agency, says Africa’s digital transformation and penetration has grown. And, as funding for African startups rebounds to pre-pandemic levels, exceeding $2 billion, international startup investing powerhouses have turned their attention to Africa’s startup ecosystem.
“It (making reference to the GITEX Africa event) seamlessly blends innovation, investment, research, and institutional collaboration, making it much more than a simple technology exhibition. It reflects the vision of a continent that no longer settles for consuming technology but is determined to create it—one that doesn’t just keep pace with innovation but plays an active role in steering its course,” Melyani says, adding that great opportunities for businesses and societies will ensue.
Countries that will be represented at the forum this year include Gabon, Niger, and Zambia – as well as markets across Europe and Asia – including Belgium, Switzerland and Uzbekistan.
Fuelling startups ecosystem
According to the European Innovation Council (EIC) – Europe’s tech investor – at least 45,000 visitors, and 1,450 exhibitors will attend the forum to help push the demand for sustainable and viable tech solutions, while the International Finance Corporation (IFC) will host 10 standout African startups as part of its SheWins Africa programme on the show floor.
At the same time, African and international startups will come into focus across a number of show features, including an onstage interview with Awa Gueye from Africa’s billion dollar start up, Wave Mobile Money; the Supernova Challenge – Africa’s early-stage startup competition – set to supercharge new companies.
Tech firms are set to make a debut at the forum as well, looking to seize on growth opportunities during the three days, forging new partnerships and showcasing their latest tech innovations. These include tech giants Cisco, Ericsson, Nokia, China Mobile and Salesforce.
