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Marrakech – Africa’s biggest tech event, GITEX Africa Morocco 2024, kicked off today in the red-washed city of Marrakech, one of the world’s most renowned destinations.
The continent’s leading platform for technology and start-ups features thousands of exhibitors, displaying their innovations to high-profile representatives from different sectors.
Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch addressed the attendees at the opening ceremony of GITEX Africa, noting that the event serves as an exceptional platform to discuss ways to position Africa as both a producer and consumer of digital technology.
“Today, digital transformation is an indispensable factor in the cooperation among African countries, contributing, in addition to technological development, to economic, social, and political growth in Africa,” Akhannouch stated.
GITEX Africa opening ceremony.
The head of government stressed the importance of trade between countries on the continent, noting that this sector is often hampered by insufficient infrastructure and complex administrative procedures.
He said that trade will greatly benefit from digitalization, noting that e-commerce and online payment platforms can simplify commercial operations, reduce costs, and enhance efficiency.
Morocco’s digital strategy
During his speech, the head of government announced that Morocco will launch its Digital Strategy 2030, which will be unveiled in the coming weeks.
“This strategy results from synergy and intense collaboration between various public and private sector actors,” he detailed.
Akhannouch emphasized that the strategy will be based on two pillars, focusing on digitizing public services.
GITEX Africa opening ceremony.
The second pillar will focus on incorporating new dynamics to the digital economy to develop Moroccan digital solutions, create added value, and generate employment opportunities.
GITEX Africa will continue until May 31 and is expected to feature over 1,500 exhibitors from over 130 countries.
The hub aims to facilitate exchanges on the latest technological developments notably in AI, health, and cybersecurity.
In a recent interview with Morocco World News (MWN), Morocco’s Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform stressed the importance of GITEX on the sidelines of a press conference noting that the event will feature 1,500 exhibitors compared to 900 exhibits last year.
GITEX Africa opening ceremony.
The hub will also host 800 startups, doubling the number of 400 startups from last year. GITEX also expects 50,000 visitors, a substantial increase from around 30,000 from last edition.
“This enthusiasm reflects the confidence of global stakeholders in positioning Morocco as a true regional player in the digital sphere,” the minister added.
GITEX Africa opening ceremony.
The minister expects the event to strengthen Morocco’s positioning as a key contributor to Africa’s development.
