Morocco Seeks Sovereignty in the AI Age
Artificial intelligence, once a peripheral concern for Moroccan policymakers, has now become a key strategic focus. Initially dismissed as part of foreign technological agendas, AI is now seen as critical for Morocco’s future. The government is working to assert digital sovereignty by developing infrastructure and reducing reliance on foreign tech companies, particularly those based in North America and Asia.
The country’s journey began with the “Morocco Digital 2020” strategy, evolving through various digital transition frameworks. The objective is clear: to cultivate a digital ecosystem rooted in Moroccan identity and values, while maintaining autonomy over sensitive data and technological tools.
Building a Digital Foundation
Morocco’s approach to achieving digital sovereignty rests on three pillars: constructing a national cloud infrastructure, expanding data centers, and supporting tech start-ups through targeted policies. These initiatives aim to drive a broader digital transformation and reduce dependency on imported technologies.
However, major challenges remain. The country’s digital ecosystem still heavily relies on foreign hardware and software, including servers, cloud systems, and cybersecurity protocols. These technologies are often subject to overseas jurisdictions, raising concerns about data confidentiality and control.
Imported AI algorithms further complicate the picture. These systems, developed by multinational corporations, are often opaque and trained on data sets that reflect social and legal norms different from Morocco’s own. This mismatch can result in bias and misinterpretation, undermining the effectiveness and fairness of AI implementations.
The Governance-Innovation Balancing Act
Moroccan authorities are attempting to synchronize technological advancement with robust institutional governance. The risk is twofold: if innovation outpaces governance, it may lead to a loss of control over critical digital infrastructure; if governance is too restrictive, it could stifle innovation and delay progress.
To address this, Morocco has established a Ministry of Digital Transition and is drafting legislation to create a National Agency for AI Governance. A notable development came with the launch of the e-Dirham, a state-controlled digital currency operating on a private blockchain. This initiative aims to modernize the economy, reduce cash dependency, and curb illicit crypto transactions, which have surged despite a 2017 ban.
Bridging the Digital Divide
While the government is pushing forward with digital reforms, socio-economic realities present significant barriers. Around 35 to 46 percent of the population is unbanked, and nearly 40 percent of rural residents lack digital literacy. These gaps could hinder the widespread adoption of AI and other emerging technologies.
Morocco has nearly 6 million cryptocurrency users, highlighting both the growing interest in digital finance and the risks of an unregulated market. The e-Dirham is part of a broader effort to bring informal digital activity under state oversight and protect citizens from fraud.
Regional Disparities and Potential
Despite efforts to modernize, AI development in Morocco remains uneven. Major cities like Casablanca, Tangier, and Marrakesh dominate the tech landscape, while rural and interior regions lag behind. However, initiatives like the Jazari Institute in Guelmim-Oued Noun offer hope. Focused on sectors like smart agriculture, renewable energy, and digital health, the institute aims to use AI as a tool for regional development.
These grassroots efforts, although limited in scale, mark a shift from passive observation to active participation in the global digital transformation. They also highlight the importance of inclusive development policies that ensure benefits reach all parts of the country.
Competing in a Global AI Race
Across the Arab world, AI is rapidly becoming a strategic priority. Countries like Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in institutional readiness and infrastructure. Morocco cannot afford to fall behind, but it must also navigate its unique challenges, including structural economic limitations and talent migration.
For now, e-commerce contributes less than 1 percent to Morocco’s GDP, and rural communities continue to struggle with access to essential services like clean water and education. The government sees AI as a means to bridge these gaps and stimulate economic growth, but implementation will be complex and gradual.
Scenarios for Morocco’s Digital Future
Most Likely: Morocco gradually reforms its development model to meet the demands of the digital age. Training programs in AI and data science expand, and public institutions begin their digital transformation. The state also introduces innovation incentives and attracts high-value tech projects by leveraging its strategic location.
Least Likely: The country fails to capitalize on its early momentum. A small elite reaps the benefits of digital progress, while the majority is left behind. This scenario could fuel youth emigration and deepen dependence on imported technologies, undermining long-term national goals.
Ultimately, Morocco’s success in the AI era will depend on its ability to align innovation with inclusive governance and ensure that all regions and communities are part of its digital journey.
This article is inspired by content from Original Source. It has been rephrased for originality. Images are credited to the original source.