Morocco’s private equity industry has a new leader. The Moroccan Private Equity Association (AMIC) has elected Omar Bekkali as its new president after a General Assembly. He replaces Hassan Laaziri, who has completed his term.
Bekkali is a Partner at AfricInvest, one of Africa’s largest private equity firms, which manages more than $2.3 billion in funds. He has worked in investment and finance for 19 years, including 16 years at AfricInvest, where he helped raise and invest funds across Morocco and Africa.
He has also been involved with AMIC for several years. He served on the association’s Board of Directors during the past two terms and was a member of its executive committee.
“I am honoured by the trust placed in me by the members of AMIC. Together with the new Board, we will continue to strengthen the role of private equity as a driver of growth, innovation and sustainable value creation for Moroccan and African businesses,” Bekkali said.
Meriem Zairi, Managing Partner at EmergingTech Ventures, was elected vice president, while Najate Berrada, General Manager of Upline Investments, became treasurer.
The new Board also includes Hassan Laaziri, CEO of CDG Invest Growth, Khaoula Ramdi, Managing Partner at Atlas Capital Private Equity, Nabil Hayat, Director at Attijari Capital Management, and Mohammed Nasset, CEO of Red Med Capital Private Equity.
Tarik Haddi, CEO of Azur Innovation Management, and Omar Laalej, CEO of Al Mada Ventures, joined the Board as observers.
The appointment comes as Morocco’s private equity market continues to grow. According to AMIC, total investment in the sector has passed 27 billion dirhams, or about $2.7 billion.
The Mohammed VI Investment Fund has also helped boost the market by investing billions of dirhams through funds that support industry, infrastructure and small and medium-sized businesses.
Manufacturing, services and healthcare still receive most private equity investment in Morocco, accounting for more than 60% of the total. However, technology startups and venture capital are growing quickly.
The new Board also includes more venture capital investors, showing AMIC wants to give greater attention to technology companies and startups alongside traditional private equity investments.
One of its biggest challenges will be helping investors sell their stakes more easily. Most private equity-backed companies in Morocco are sold to other investors or companies, while stock market listings remain uncommon.
