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- GITEX AFRICA Morocco expands multi-sector focus to accelerate AI adoption, infrastructure and industry digitalisation across continent
- New and expanded sectors across data centres, cybersecurity, mobility and finance deliver fresh applications of tech as Africa’s digital ambition moves to large-scale implementation
Africa’s Digital Economy Moves From Vision to Execution
As Africa’s digital economy enters a decisive phase of execution, governments, enterprises, and investors are accelerating the deployment of infrastructure and capabilities needed to sustain long-term growth.
RELATED: Morocco drives Pan-African AI push as GITEX AFRICA 2026 opens in Marrakech
Responding to this shift, GITEX AFRICA Morocco has expanded its sector focus to address the critical enablers shaping the continent’s digital future—ranging from data centre capacity and cybersecurity resilience to financial systems and next-generation mobility.
The event takes place from 7–9 April 2026, convening more than 1,450 exhibitors and startups from over 130 countries. It is held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, under the authority of Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, hosted by the Digital Development Agency (ADD), and organised by KAOUN International.
Global Participation Reinforces Africa’s Role in the Digital Economy
The 2026 edition reflects a significantly expanded international footprint, with strong participation from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, alongside deeper representation from Africa’s fast-growing digital economies. First-time country delegations, including Thailand and Korea, signal rising global alignment around Africa’s technology growth potential.
This momentum is reinforced by the participation of global technology and infrastructure leaders such as Ericsson and financial services giants like Mastercard, working alongside African partners to advance cloud adoption, connectivity, and digital financial systems. Senior policymakers and industry leaders, including representatives from the European Commission and major telecom operators, are also shaping discussions at the conference.
Data Centres and Infrastructure Take Centre Stage for AI Readiness
A major highlight of GITEX AFRICA Morocco 2026 is the introduction of the Data Centre Intelligent Infrastructure (DCII) sector, addressing Africa’s rising demand for compute power, connectivity, and energy-efficient systems—critical foundations for AI deployment.
With Morocco advancing its national data centre strategy across Casablanca, Dakhla, and Settat, and similar expansions underway across key African markets, international providers are collaborating closely with governments to strengthen digital infrastructure and support resilient ecosystems.
Mobility and Financial Systems Drive New Growth Frontiers
Reflecting Africa’s broader industrial transformation, GITEX AFRICA Morocco introduces its first Mobility Park, bringing together global automotive and mobility leaders to showcase advances in electric, autonomous, and connected transportation. As Morocco strengthens its position in the electric vehicle and battery supply chain, mobility is emerging as a core pillar of economic development.
Global automotive leader Hyundai, the event’s official transportation partner, is presenting its latest electric mobility innovations, with a strong focus on its IONIQ lineup.
Youssef Bennis, General Manager of Hyundai Maroc, noted that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, human-centred mobility, and engagement with forward-looking digital ecosystems.
Fintech and Future Banking Spotlight Financial Inclusion
The expanded Future Banking and Finance sector brings together international financial institutions, fintechs, and technology providers to advance digitalisation, financial inclusion, and cross-border payments across Africa.
Moroccan financial institution Saham Bank is participating in the judging panel for the Supernova startup pitch competition, supporting emerging companies developing secure and inclusive payment solutions.
Ahmed El Yacoubi, CEO of Saham Bank, described Africa as the world’s most dynamic fintech market, emphasising the importance of supporting startups that are redefining innovation and inclusion.
Fintech unicorn Wave is also playing a prominent role across the conference programme, delivering exclusive content under the theme “The Future of Money, Built for Africa.” Wave highlighted accessibility and simplicity as key drivers of financial transformation at scale.
A Structuring Platform for a Sovereign Digital Africa
As a major hub for international digital cooperation, GITEX AFRICA Morocco continues to consolidate its position as a structuring force in building an ambitious, innovative, and sovereign digital Africa. Building on the success of previous editions, the 2026 event is set to catalyse new alliances, unlock investment, and deepen engagement across increasingly tech-critical sectors—further amplifying Africa’s role in the global digital economy.
