CAFRAD Sets Course for the Digital Future: Immersive Presence at GITEX AFRICA in Marrakech to Catalyze Digital Governance

The CAFRAD delegation responded positively to the invitation of the Minister of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, who also serves as Chair of CAFRAD’s Board of Directors, to attend GITEX Africa 2025, held from April 14 to 16 in Marrakech. On the sidelines of the event’s main sessions—including workshops, conferences, and bilateral meetings—CAFRAD organized a strategic tour of exhibition stands with a focus on digital transformation. The goal: to engage with African innovation and pave the way for emerging technologies.

CAFRAD and Al Akhawayn University at GITEX Africa: A Constructive Immersion Toward a Structuring Partnership

A high-level meeting took place between CAFRAD and Al Akhawayn University, marking a key milestone in cooperation between the Pan-African governance institution and a leading higher education establishment.

The main objective of the meeting was to explore avenues for collaboration in training, research, digital transformation, and capacity development within African public administrations. GITEX, as a true hub of innovation in new technologies, provided the perfect setting to launch this ambitious partnership.

A Partnership in Service of Africa’s Deep and Comprehensive Transformation

The Director General of CAFRAD, Dr. Coffi Dieudonné ASSOUVI, emphasized the importance of involving African universities in the efforts to modernize public administration. The digital transformation of public institutions and private organizations requires strong synergy between academic research, continuing education, and technological innovation. Al Akhawayn University, with its expertise and international reach, stands out as a strategic partner of choice. It is particularly appealing to CAFRAD because of its focus on innovative entrepreneurship, the creation of smart startups, and the practical training of tomorrow’s leaders.

For his part, the Dean of Al Akhawayn University, Dr. Salah AL-MAJEED, highlighted the university’s commitment to actively contributing to the continent’s development. Indeed, Al Akhawayn University envisions itself as an institution rooted in Africa and oriented toward excellence. This potential partnership with CAFRAD could lead to joint programs, training modules for African public officials and leaders, and applied research projects.

CAFRAD and EMARATECH Explore a Strategic Partnership in Technological Innovations

Another significant meeting was held between CAFRAD and EMARATECH, a major player in the development of advanced technological solutions for governments and public services. This meeting paved the way for strategic discussions focused on technological innovation applied to public governance in Africa.

The goal is to identify global best practices and adapt them to African realities. A partnership with EMARATECH could accelerate the digitalization of public administrations across the continent.

A Shared Vision for High-Performance Digital Governance

CAFRAD, a pioneering intergovernmental institution in strengthening administrative capacities in Africa, is actively seeking to integrate cutting-edge technologies into its public transformation programs. On the other hand, EMARATECH, a subsidiary of the Dubai government specializing in the digitalization of government services, offers innovative solutions in the areas of identity management, administrative process automation, and data security.

CAFRAD and FVC Explore Technological Collaboration for the Transformation of African Administrations

On another note, CAFRAD has engaged in fruitful discussions with FVC Services (First Video Communications), a recognized leader in the field of information technology, communications, and advanced collaboration solutions. This meeting is part of CAFRAD’s ongoing efforts to support African public administrations in their digital transition.

A Shared Vision for Smart Public Administration

CAFRAD, dedicated to the development of administrative capacities and good governance, is particularly interested in innovative technological solutions capable of optimizing public services. On the other hand, FVC Services, with its expertise in videoconferencing, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and communication infrastructures, positions itself as a preferred technological partner for governments seeking efficiency and transparency. The company is well-equipped to meet the specific needs of African administrations undergoing transformation.

CAFRAD and UM6P Initiate a Strategic Partnership for the Transformation of Public Governance in Africa

CAFRAD has also begun promising discussions with senior officials from Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) to establish a strategic partnership focused on training, applied research, and technological innovation to serve African administrations.

This meeting is part of CAFRAD’s efforts to partner with leading academic institutions to drive a new dynamic in modernizing public governance across the continent.

A Convergence of Visions for a New Africa

As an institution dedicated to addressing the administrative development challenges of African states, CAFRAD places innovation and knowledge at the core of its mission. UM6P, a research university focused on Africa, represents a new generation of institutions that combine academic excellence, scientific entrepreneurship, and societal impact. Together, the two institutions could create powerful synergies between public decision-makers and the academic world to build more effective, agile, and resilient governance in Africa.

CAFRAD and the OCP Group Join Forces to Strengthen the Capacities of African Administrations

The CAFRAD delegation then visited the OCP (Office Chérifien des Phosphates) stand in search of new cooperation opportunities, in line with the renewed vision of CAFRAD to anchor itself in the Moroccan territory by engaging with the country’s strategic actors. It is within this perspective of institutional rapprochement that CAFRAD initiated discussions with OCP Maintenance Solutions, a subsidiary of the OCP Group, a global leader in the phosphate industry and a committed actor in Africa’s development. This initiative aligns with a shared vision of sustainable and inclusive transformation, placing humanity, equity, inclusion, knowledge, and innovation at the heart of modernizing public governance.

A Synergy to Develop Human Capital

A partnership project between CAFRAD and OCP will be based on a shared commitment to strengthening institutional capacities, valuing African skills, and promoting efficient, ethical, and results-oriented governance. The OCP Group, with its strong African presence and commitment to education and innovation, is a key ally in supporting the continent’s administrations in their digital transformation.

CAFRAD and RAM: A Quest for Partnership and Sponsorship

CAFRAD is a strategic pillar for modernizing public administration in Africa. On the other hand, RAM (Royal Air Maroc), a leading player in African air transport, is constantly seeking to renew its image and engage in meaningful cultural projects.

The CAFRAD delegation’s visit to the RAM stand aimed to find common ground that would link CAFRAD’s innovative vision to RAM’s institutional stature, with the shared goal of supporting innovative institutional initiatives. RAM would take on the role of a modern patron by sponsoring cultural projects that educate and transform young generations, while providing logistical, financial, and symbolic support to initiatives reflecting a shared vision.

African Governance and Saudi Innovation: A Synergy Under Development

The last stand visited by the CAFRAD delegation was that of one of the official sponsors of GITEX Africa 2025, “Saudi Made,” the “Innovation Country” partner of GITEX Africa. In its efforts to offer new cooperation perspectives to its member states, CAFRAD is exploring international avenues for its solutions in training, research, and the enhancement of global governance on the continent. To this end, CAFRAD initiated discussions with “Advance International- AICTEC,” a company specializing in technological innovation that is dedicated to creating innovative digital solutions to meet the specific needs of communities and businesses. With years of experience and a skilled team, AICTEC has received several awards, including a top-tier classification certificate for implementing large government projects in Saudi Arabia.

AICTEC offers several services and solutions for public services and administrations in areas such as human resources management, institutional communication, optimizing information flow, and smart organization of meetings and events.

Cooperation and sponsorship opportunities were discussed based on AICTEC’s willingness to propose innovative solutions tailored to African governance.

Conclusion:

CAFRAD’s participation in GITEX Africa 2025 marks a strategic step in its vision for the global transformation of Africa and its ambition to strengthen African public governance through innovation, international cooperation, and training. By engaging with key players in the digital, technological, academic, and institutional sectors, CAFRAD has positioned itself within a forward-looking dynamic. These discussions, rich in partnership prospects, demonstrate the Organization’s commitment to being a bridge between future African leaders, educational and knowledge institutions, and global technological partners.

Through these emerging partnerships, a vision is taking shape: that of a more agile, smarter African public administration that resolutely and irreversibly integrates the demands of digital transformation. For CAFRAD, GITEX Africa 2025 has been a true catalyst for alliances that are capable of driving change. CAFRAD leaves the event with concrete avenues for collaboration that could, in the near future, help shape a more innovative, inclusive, and high-performing African governance.