In a historic move for digital innovation on the African continent, Morocco’s capital, Rabat, has unveiled a major initiative: the creation of an Artificial Intelligence Council for Africa. Announced during the African Cybersecurity Forum and spearheaded by the Smart Africa Alliance, this groundbreaking project aims to reshape Africa’s digital landscape through a strategic and inclusive approach to artificial intelligence (AI).
The AI Council will bring together political leaders, industry pioneers, and AI experts with a mission to accelerate technological transformation across Africa. The initiative is built on several key pillars: infrastructure development, digital skills enhancement, data accessibility, and market expansion.
“This project focuses on driving impactful digital initiatives across Africa by strengthening these fundamental pillars,” explained Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Morocco’s Minister Delegate in charge of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform.
Seghrouchni also emphasized Morocco’s leading role in advancing AI on the continent, highlighting the country’s successful hosting of the first High-Level AI Forum in June. That event culminated in the Rabat Consensus, a strategic agreement among Smart Africa’s member states that underscored Morocco’s digital leadership, supported by its cutting-edge infrastructure, including numerous data centers.
Didier Nkurikiyimfura, Senior Director of Strategy and Growth at Smart Africa, described digital innovation as a powerful driver of development for Africa. Speaking at the forum, he stressed the importance of producing digital services tailored to local needs by leveraging African data.
“The AI Council will officially be launched in Kigali in the coming weeks at a global conference dedicated to this initiative,” Nkurikiyimfura announced. He also highlighted that technology training is a key priority for ensuring sustainable development across the continent.
The African Cybersecurity Forum, held under the auspices of Morocco’s royal directives, runs until February 5. The event is organized by the General Directorate for Information System Security (DGSSI) and gathers a diverse array of experts—including cybersecurity specialists, government officials, business leaders, and researchers. Its goal is to bolster Africa’s defenses against rising cyber threats and foster greater regional cooperation on digital resilience.
This initiative underscores Africa’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies and building a more inclusive digital future. With the establishment of the AI Council, the continent takes a significant step toward collective digital empowerment, with Morocco firmly positioned as a pioneering force in this transformation.
