French Minister for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs Anne Le Hénanff said Monday in Marrakech that GITEX Africa reflects Morocco’s growing status as a major technology hub serving the African continent.
Speaking during a meeting organized by the Consulate General of France in Marrakech on the eve of GITEX Africa 2026, Le Hénanff noted that the event has, over the years, established itself as the leading gathering for startups in Africa, bringing together key players in innovation, investors, and project leaders from diverse backgrounds.
She said the event’s rising prominence mirrors Morocco’s increasing attractiveness in the digital sector, underlining the country’s expanding role in Africa’s technological landscape.
Le Hénanff also welcomed the strong participation of French companies at this year’s edition, stressing that their presence is supported by French regions and reflects a broader commitment by French economic actors to engage with Africa’s digital growth.
The French official highlighted the strength of the partnership between France and Morocco in digital technologies, pointing to a shared ambition to further deepen strategic cooperation, particularly by leveraging the Kingdom’s dynamic business community.
She referred to several flagship initiatives aimed at reinforcing this cooperation, including plans to establish a joint research and development center focused on artificial intelligence to support Moroccan talent in advanced technologies.
Le Hénanff also mentioned the creation of a center of excellence dedicated to data and artificial intelligence as part of efforts to boost innovation and skills development.
GITEX Africa Morocco 2026 is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform and is organized by the Digital Development Agency (ADD) in partnership with KAOUN International, a subsidiary of the Dubai World Trade Centre.
The event is regarded as the largest technology and startup gathering on the African continent.
