New AI Center in Morocco Aims to Train 500 Experts and Lead Africa’s Tech Future

A landmark MoU signed in Rabat paves the way for a major Franco-Moroccan partnership to establish a Center of Excellence in Data and Artificial Intelligence, positioning Casablanca-Settat as a future leader in global AI innovation.

Rabat, Morocco – July 23, 2025 — In a bold move signaling Morocco’s growing role in the global tech landscape, a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed this Tuesday in Rabat between French innovation leader Onepoint and Moroccan authorities to establish a Center of Excellence in Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Casablanca-Settat region.

This center is envisioned as a strategic hub for research, innovation, and AI solution development, designed to serve both Moroccan and international markets. It marks the first tangible step of Onepoint’s expansion into Africa, a continent rapidly emerging as a fertile ground for digital transformation.

“This partnership embodies a shared vision for innovation, sovereignty in data, and a knowledge-driven economy,” said a Onepoint representative at the signing ceremony.

🌍 Global Vision, Local Impact

Announced earlier this year as part of the “Infinite Possibilities” roadmap, the center is expected to employ 500 highly skilled professionals over the next four years. These talents will work in close collaboration with a broad network of public, private, and international partners, building a robust AI ecosystem rooted in Moroccan expertise.

The Casablanca-Settat region, already a rising economic and digital hub, has been strategically chosen to anchor this initiative. With strong infrastructure, a dynamic youth workforce, and proximity to Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa, the region is well-positioned to become a pole of excellence for AI in the Global South.

🤖 Why It Matters

This project goes beyond technology. It’s a geopolitical and economic signal: that Morocco is ready to become a global player in artificial intelligence, not just a consumer of foreign technologies. As AI becomes a pillar of national power—shaping defense, health, education, and economic models—countries investing early in local talent and innovation infrastructure will lead the next digital era.

This French-Moroccan collaboration also aligns with broader Francophone digital diplomacy and South-North technology transfer, offering a scalable model for ethical, inclusive, and sovereign AI development.

💼 Next Steps

• Infrastructure: Construction of the center is expected to begin by early 2026
• Talent Development: Launch of AI training programs and scholarships
• Innovation Tracks: Focus areas will include health AI, smart cities, data governance, and climate analytics
• International Integration: The center will link to AI labs in France, Canada, and West Africa

“By 2029, Morocco won’t just participate in AI innovation—it will help define its global future,” said one senior official from Morocco’s digital transformation ministry.