The African Development Bank (AfDB) has committed a substantial €650 million to support Morocco’s preparations for hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2030. The announcement, made on Thursday by AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina, followed high-level discussions with Moroccan Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch.
This major financial boost will focus on upgrading Morocco’s railways and airports, vital infrastructure for welcoming a global event of such magnitude. “To assist Morocco in its World Cup preparations, the AfDB will soon present a €650 million financing proposal for approval, bolstering the country’s competitiveness in this arena,” Adesina revealed.
This initiative marks a continuation of the enduring partnership between Morocco and the AfDB, a relationship characterized by multi-sectoral cooperation. Currently, the bank’s active portfolio in Morocco spans 37 projects worth $3.6 billion, encompassing critical areas such as infrastructure, energy, water, sanitation, and private sector support.
In 2023 alone, the AfDB approved $1.5 billion in funding for Morocco. “This reflects the strategic importance of our partnership and our unwavering support for Morocco’s structural reforms,” Adesina emphasized.
Beyond infrastructure, discussions between Adesina and Akhannouch also addressed pivotal social priorities, including youth employment and skills development. The AfDB reaffirmed its commitment to aiding Morocco in these transformative efforts, further enhancing its economic and social progress.
Adesina expressed gratitude to King Mohammed VI for his support of the AfDB, particularly in facilitating the Africa Investment Forum (AIF), which is currently being hosted in Rabat. The event underscores Morocco’s increasing prominence as a hub for development and investment across the African continent.
The bank’s significant contribution aligns with Morocco’s ambition to solidify its role on the global stage, both as a host of the prestigious World Cup and as a driving force for sustainable growth and innovation in Africa.
With this €650 million funding commitment, the AfDB reinforces its position as a key ally in Morocco’s journey toward hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The investment not only fuels infrastructure expansion but also underscores the shared vision of economic transformation and regional leadership.
As the countdown to 2030 begins, Morocco stands poised to make a lasting impression—not just as a host nation but as a model for collaboration, resilience, and ambition in Africa.
