Morocco prepares for GITEX Africa 2026, positioning itself as a digital hub with a focus on AI, startups, and cross-border collaboration.
Morocco is reinforcing its ambitions as a regional digital hub ahead of GITEX Africa 2026, set to take place in Marrakech from April 7 to 9.
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Government officials are positioning the event as a key pillar of the country’s digital transformation strategy, with a strong focus on artificial intelligence, startup development, and international collaboration.
Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, said the event goes beyond a traditional tech exhibition, describing it as a platform to advance national priorities in digitalisation and showcase Moroccan innovation on a global stage.
The 2026 edition will run under the theme “Catalysing Africa’s Digital Economy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”, reflecting growing policy alignment around AI adoption across the continent.
Organisers expect participation from more than 1,450 companies and startups representing over 130 countries. New national delegations, including Croatia, Denmark, Guinea, Thailand and Zambia, are set to join the event.
Investment activity is also expected to be a central focus. More than 400 investors, managing a combined $350 billion in assets, will attend and engage with startups through the North Star Africa programme, the event’s dedicated platform for early-stage companies.
Morocco is also advancing a broader regional agenda. Through its Digital for Sustainable Development Hub, developed in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme, the country is working to establish an Arab-African digital cooperation framework aimed at coordinating AI deployment across emerging markets.
Amine El Mezouaghi, Director General of the Digital Development Agency, said artificial intelligence could play a central role in Africa’s digital growth, provided it is supported by aligned policies, infrastructure, and investment.
The event is organised by KAOUN International, a subsidiary of Dubai World Trade Centre, in partnership with Morocco’s Digital Development Agency.
Since its launch, GITEX Africa has grown into one of the continent’s largest technology events, contributing to the rise of cities such as Marrakech as key nodes in Africa’s innovation ecosystem.
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Morocco’s positioning strengthens North Africa’s role in the region’s digital economy. It also signals deeper Arab-African collaboration on AI, investment, and startup growth.
