Morocco’s Digital Transformation Strategy: Leveraging AI and Blockchain for ‘Digital Hub’ Status by 2030
Morocco is embarking on an ambitious journey towards becoming a global digital hub by 2030, with a focus on harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies. The Digital Morocco 2030 strategy, announced on September 25 with a $1.1 billion budget, aims to integrate advanced technologies to enhance public services, spur economic growth, and create 240,000 new jobs in the digital sector over the next decade.
AI and Blockchain at the Core
At the heart of Morocco’s digital transformation strategy are AI and blockchain technologies, which will drive innovation and efficiency across various sectors. The Unified Administrative Services Portal, a key component of the strategy, will leverage blockchain to securely manage essential services like healthcare, education, and social protection. AI systems will further enhance service delivery by analyzing and processing data in real-time, leading to more personalized and efficient public services.
Minister of Digital Transition Ghita Mezzour highlighted the importance of embracing digital technologies to boost the country’s digital economy. Morocco aims to significantly improve its ranking in the United Nations Online Services Index, moving up from 100th to 50th place globally. Additionally, the government plans to increase digital export revenues to 40 billion dirhams ($4.15 billion) and contribute 100 billion dirhams ($10.36 billion) to the country’s GDP through its digital initiatives.
Fostering Innovation and Growth
To support the development of new AI-driven startups and blockchain-based platforms, Morocco is focusing on creating a conducive environment for innovation. The government plans to enhance 5G coverage to 70% of the country’s territory and establish 3,000 startups to drive technological advancements.
Morocco is also looking to attract global tech companies specializing in AI and blockchain to establish operations in the country. The Moroccan Agency for Digital Development (ADD) will play a crucial role in supporting the digitalization of public administrations and streamlining administrative procedures through a unified digital portal. By fostering a dynamic tech ecosystem, Morocco aims to create a significant number of jobs while positioning itself as a competitive player in the global AI and blockchain sectors.
Supporting Startups and Accelerating Growth
In order to nurture and support startups developing AI and blockchain-based solutions, the government is working on creating a supportive legal framework. This framework will enable startups to grow rapidly and expand their operations globally, contributing to the overall growth of Morocco’s tech ecosystem.
The Digital Morocco 2030 plan is not only focused on attracting global tech players but also on fostering innovation within the country. By supporting local startups and providing them with the necessary resources and infrastructure, Morocco aims to create a vibrant tech community that can compete on the international stage.
Conclusion
Morocco’s Digital Morocco 2030 strategy represents a bold step towards embracing AI and blockchain technologies to drive digital transformation and economic growth. By leveraging these advanced technologies, Morocco is positioning itself as a key player in the global digital economy, with a focus on innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth. As the country continues to invest in its digital future, it is poised to become a leading digital hub by 2030.
