Sixteen years ago, Dr. Rochdi Talib, a young anesthesiologist with big dreams, set out on a bold journey. Starting with a modest 50-bed clinic, his determination and vision turned that humble beginning into a sprawling private healthcare empire in Morocco. Today, Akdital, the group he founded, stands as the undisputed leader in private healthcare across the kingdom. With 32 facilities, over 3,700 beds in 19 cities, and ambitious plans for growth, the Akdital story is one of innovation, expansion, and resilience.
From vision to reality
In just 15 years, Dr. Talib transformed a lofty ambition into a transformative force in Moroccan healthcare. His group now accounts for nearly 10% of the nation’s hospital capacity and 20% of the private sector’s beds. Through strategic expansion and a relentless drive for innovation, he has redefined the benchmarks for private medicine in Morocco, paving the way for a healthcare revolution across the continent.
A record-breaking expansion
Dr. Talib’s aggressive growth strategy has been particularly evident since October 2023. Akdital has launched two new healthcare facilities every month, achieving milestones that have reshaped the private healthcare landscape.
Some highlights include:
- A clinic in Taroudant.
- A facility in Dakhla, inaugurated during the Green March commemoration.
- Two state-of-the-art facilities in Kenitra: the International Hospital and the International Oncology Center.
- A newly opened oncology center in Benguérir.
With a clinic set to open in Meknès soon, Akdital is reaching cities often underserved by healthcare infrastructure. This expansion strengthens the group’s presence in 19 cities, delivering advanced medical care to previously neglected populations.
Medicine 4.0: A bold leap
While Akdital’s growth is impressive, its vision sets it apart. Dr. Talib is spearheading the creation of “Akdital Innov,” Africa’s first 4.0 hospital. Developed in collaboration with Dassault Systèmes, this groundbreaking initiative will integrate artificial intelligence, telemedicine, and predictive models to deliver deeply personalized care.
The project represents more than a technological leap; it embodies a paradigm shift in patient care. Signed on November 12, a partnership memorandum also involves Long Island University, a renowned U.S. institution. Together, these collaborations promise to set new standards for healthcare in Africa.
A visionary entrepreneur
Dr. Talib’s rise is a testament to perseverance. In 2008, after years of practicing in France, he returned to Morocco to modernize private healthcare. With savings of just 4 million dirhams, he persuaded his late father-in-law, Hassan Akdim, to invest in his first venture: the Jerrada Clinic.
Despite financial hurdles, Dr. Talib adopted a bold strategy, combining meticulous management with strategic partnerships. In time, Jerrada Clinic flourished, allowing him to expand and lay the foundation for what would become Akdital.
The birth of Akdital
In 2017, Dr. Talib consolidated his ventures under a single holding company: Akdital, a name derived from the first letters of his and his wife Fatima Akdim’s names. This marked the start of an ambitious journey to revolutionize private healthcare in Morocco.
The group grew rapidly, opening several flagship clinics, including Ain Borja Akdital and the International Oncology Center. With a significant financial boost of 800 million dirhams from CIH Bank, Akdital’s momentum surged. In 2022, the group reached a new milestone, raising 1.2 billion dirhams through its IPO to fund further expansion.
Talent at the core
One of Akdital’s keys to success lies in its innovative approach to talent management. Aware of the challenge of attracting skilled professionals, especially in remote regions, Dr. Talib implemented a range of incentives, including housing, airfare, and educational support for employees’ children.
This strategy has successfully drawn Moroccan and international professionals, including French-Algerian and sub-Saharan doctors, to regions like Guelmim and Errachidia. For Dr. Talib, each team member is crucial, and he spares no effort in building an exceptional workforce.
Looking beyond borders
Akdital’s ambitions extend far beyond Morocco. With a target of 50 facilities and 5,700 beds by 2026, the group is also setting its sights on sub-Saharan Africa. The region’s urgent need for modern medical infrastructure makes it a prime destination for Akdital’s international expansion, coupled with its pioneering focus on Medicine 4.0.
