On March 26, 2026, the city of Kenitra hosted a major international conference dedicated to a now essential theme: artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. Organized in partnership with the Center for International Studies on Security, Migration and Flows (CEISMF), CAFRAD, and other partners, this scientific meeting brought together researchers, experts, and policymakers to discuss the profound transformations of cyberspace.

A Strategic Academic Event for Africa and Beyond

In a global context marked by accelerated digital transformation, artificial intelligence is emerging as a strategic lever of power, but also as a source of vulnerability. Its integration into digital security systems is redefining geopolitical balances and raising major challenges in terms of sovereignty, governance, and regulation.

This conference aims to create a high-level forum for discussion, allowing for the intersection of theoretical approaches and operational realities. The objective is clear: to better understand the legal, security, and strategic challenges related to AI in cyberspace.

A rich program led by international experts

The event featured the participation of leading academic and institutional figures, including Dr. Coffi Dieudonné Assouvi, Director General of CAFRAD, who addressed the emerging issue of cryptocrimes and the need for cybercrime law adapted to new forms of digital crime.

The discussions were be structured around two main plenary sessions:

• Sovereignty, governance, and the geopolitics of cyberspace;
• AI, cybercrime, and legal challenges;
• Among the topics to be addressed:
• The impact of AI on international power dynamics;
• The rise of cyber threats and algorithmic crimes;
• The challenges of cyber sovereignty in Africa and Morocco;
• Algorithmic biases and their ethical implications;
• Criminal liability in the face of autonomous systems.

AI: Between Strategic Opportunity and Security Challenge

The presentations highlighted an undeniable reality: artificial intelligence is profoundly transforming the nature of threats and security responses. While it offers unprecedented capabilities in prevention, analysis, and response, it also provides fertile ground for more sophisticated, sometimes autonomous, forms of crime.

Faced with these changes, traditional legal frameworks often appear inadequate. Hence the urgent need to rethink regulatory models, strengthen international cooperation, and develop ethical and sovereign digital governance.

CAFRAD, a Committed Player in the Digital Age

Through its active participation in this event, CAFRAD reaffirms its role as an African platform for reflection and training on contemporary strategic issues. By engaging in debates related to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence, the Center helps support African public administrations in adapting to the challenges of the digital age.

Towards Concrete and Operational Recommendations

Beyond academic discussions, this symposium aims to produce practical recommendations that can inform public policies and institutional strategies. It is part of a dynamic process of capacity building, expertise sharing, and the development of a shared vision for digital security.

For one day, Kenitra served as an international hub for reflection on the critical challenges of the 21^st century, where the outlines of a safer, fairer, and more sovereign cyberspace will take shape.

For more information about the event, please consult the concept note via the following link : Download