Rabat — Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), lauded Morocco’s unwavering commitment to fostering African integration in an exclusive interview with the Moroccan News Agency (MAP).
Adesina acknowledged the visionary leadership of King Mohammed VI, arguing that Morocco’s substantial investments in Africa and its invaluable experience in a range of value-creating areas have positioned the country as a catalyst for regional collaboration.
“In anything related to regional integration, His Majesty King Mohammed VI is deeply involved and committed,” Adesina emphasized. “Morocco is investing significantly in Africa and possesses valuable experience worth sharing.”
During his conversation with MAP, the AfDB chief highlighted Morocco’s exemplary contributions to the advancement of Africa, citing the Noor Ouarzazate solar complex as a beacon of successful exemple for the “Desert to Power” (DtP) project. This initiative, spearheaded by the AfDB, aims to harness solar energy, targeting an additional 10 GW of capacity to provide clean electricity for 250 million people by 2030.
Beyond solar achievements, Adesina emphasized Morocco’s impactful role in port construction, citing the Tanger Med as a model for other African nations. According to Adesina, many African nations can benefit from the successful Tanger Med experience in port construction, including industrial and port zones.
Turning to education, Adesina commended the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University for its pioneering approach in incorporating digital information across all disciplines.
“I am amazed at the institution’s incorporation of digital information across all disciplines, setting a high standard for educational institutions,” he remarked.
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Adesina’s interview with MAP took place on the sidelines of the fourth edition of the African Investment Forum in Marrakech, which was held from November 8-10. Adesina hailed the event as a “great success,” revealing cumulative investment interests totaling an impressive $34.82 billion.
“Numerous Moroccan projects were deliberated in the board rooms,” he rejoiced, highlighting specific projects such as Nador West Med, with a budget of $4.5 billion, and nearly $5.6 billion earmarked for Royal Air Maroc to enhance its competitiveness through aircraft acquisition.
Initiated in 2018 through collaboration between the African Development Bank and the Islamic Development Bank, the African Investment Forum has emerged as the continent’s foremost investment platform.
With the participation of numerous institutions, the forum stands as a beacon of hope for Africa’s economic revitalization, showcasing Morocco’s pivotal role in driving the continent’s progress.
