Marrakech – The highly anticipated 8th edition of Casablanca Smart City officially commenced today at the Sacre-Cœur Church in Casablanca. The two-day event, held under King Mohammed VI, brings together key stakeholders to explore innovative solutions for sustainable urban development under the theme “From Smart Citizen to Smart Metropolis.”
According to the organizers, the event aims to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and growing urban challenges, providing a platform to rethink intelligent urban development from a sustainable and inclusive perspective, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Casablanca Smart City 2024 focuses on developing better-adapted and more efficient urban solutions while orienting technological approaches to fully integrate the human dimension into the planning and management of a metropolis. This initiative emphasizes the importance of not only physical infrastructure and services but also enhancing human resilience through innovative technologies.
The opening ceremony was hosted by Manal Bernoussi, Founder of Leaders on Purpose, who emphasized the significance of this edition in shaping the intelligent future of Casablanca. The event attracted a diverse array of high-profile speakers, including government officials, international experts, and academics.
Mohammed Mhidia, Wali of the Casablanca-Settat Region, presented the regional roadmap for digital transition, highlighting key investments, pilot projects, and job creation initiatives. He stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in achieving these objectives.
Aawatif Hayar, Minister of Family and Social Affairs, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting digital inclusion through training programs and equipment provision in disadvantaged neighborhoods. “There can be no smart city without connected citizens,” she stated.
Abdellatif Mazouz, President of the Regional Council, addressed environmental challenges, emphasizing the need for intelligent management of natural resources, energy savings, recycling, and sustainable mobility. He also outlined upcoming urban renovation projects.
Nabila Rmili, President of the Municipal Council, positioned Casablanca as a future showcase for African smart cities. She highlighted high-tech urban projects such as intelligent lighting and sensor networks, as well as citizen participation platforms.
Mohamed Jouahri, Director General of Casablanca Events, discussed the role of animation in the smart city, covering aspects like smart tourism and smart retail. He announced a calendar of public events to promote the concept.
International speakers included Edlam A. Yameru from UN-Habitat, who shared insights from pioneering cities, international best practices, and the importance of a participatory approach.
Academics Houssine Azeddoug and Hassan Radoine presented dedicated university and research programs focused on training future competencies in intelligent urban planning and leveraging technological innovation for smart cities.
Casablanca Smart City 2024 acts as a hub for researchers, decision-makers, innovators, and citizens to share knowledge, experiences, and co-create innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of the Moroccan and international context. The event aims to shape a new era of urban development, prioritizing citizen well-being and environmental preservation.
Read also: Casablanca Smart City’s 8th Edition Sets Sights on Building Urban Futures
