Morocco’s Digital Development Push
At the World Trade Organization’s Public Forum 2025 in Geneva, Morocco’s Permanent Representative Omar Zniber reaffirmed the country’s commitment to inclusive digital development in Africa. Speaking at the high-level session “Unlocking Africa’s Digital Potential through Infrastructure”, Zniber emphasized the need for stronger digital infrastructure, innovative partnerships, and coordinated action to overcome challenges such as weak connectivity, cybersecurity risks, and the regulation of artificial intelligence.
Zniber showcased Morocco’s Digital Morocco 2030 strategy, which targets 240,000 new jobs, MAD 100 billion ($9.7 billion) in GDP contribution, and a top-50 global ranking in digital services. Key projects like PortNet, BADR, and TijarIA, along with partnerships with global firms such as Mistral AI and Nokia, highlight Morocco’s ambition to become Africa’s digital hub. He also referenced King Mohammed VI’s Atlantic Initiative to link Sahel nations to global markets through modern logistics and digital corridors.
On human capital, Zniber pointed to training efforts such as the Excellence in Africa program with UM6P and EPFL, underlining the importance of skills development for sustainable digital growth.
Other speakers, including Latifa El Bouabdellaoui of the Islamic Centre for Development of Trade, called for stronger regulation, investment, and institutional capacity to address structural barriers to digital trade. The session stressed that while the WTO cannot act alone, it remains central to setting common standards and facilitating cooperation.
ANME Pushes Back Against “Room-and-Hotel Journalism”
On the same day, Morocco’s National Association of Media and Publishers (ANME) raised alarms over the growing influence of social media personalities and podcasters presenting themselves as journalists.
Re-elected ANME president Driss Chahtane condemned what he described as “room-and-hotel journalism”, citing the Morocco vs. Niger football match as a case of misconduct. He warned that strict new laws and enforcement measures will soon be enacted, with the National Press Council empowered to act against individuals impersonating journalists or operating without authorization.
ANME also pledged to defend the rights of accredited media professionals, including securing discounted train fares and a 50% flight discount through an upcoming partnership with Royal Air Maroc.
During its general assembly, ANME approved its financial and activity reports and confirmed plans to submit a memorandum urging greater government support for national media outlets.
Media–Sports Partnership
In a related development, ANME signed a partnership with the National Professional Football League (LNFP) in Casablanca. The agreement ensures only accredited journalists cover football events, with ANME managing workflows, press conferences, and field access, while LNFP oversees logistics.
