A memorandum of understanding was signed Tuesday in Rabat to establish a Center of Excellence in Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Casablanca-Settat region. The agreement brings together several Moroccan ministries, the Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency (AMDIE), and French tech company Onepoint. The protocol was signed by Amal El Fellah Seghrouchni, Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform; Ryad Mezzour, Minister of Industry and Trade; Karim Zidane, Minister Delegate for Investment; Ali Seddiki, Director General of AMDIE; and David Layani, founder and president of Onepoint. Part of the «Morocco Digital 2030» strategy, this initiative aims to equip the Kingdom with cutting-edge technological infrastructure to support public service modernization, digital innovation, and the competitiveness of the national industrial sector. Minister Seghrouchni described the agreement as a major milestone in Morocco's ambition to become a premier destination for high-value-added offshoring, highlighting the country's growing digital and industrial appeal. The project plans to recruit 500 Moroccan engineers and build advanced skills in strategic tech fields such as AI, data processing, and middleware. According to Seghrouchni, it will also bolster Morocco's digital sovereignty and provide local talent with opportunities to contribute to global-scale projects. Minister Mezzour noted that the agreement reflects international confidence in Morocco's industrial, human, and digital potential. He emphasized that Casablanca-Settat's growing tech appeal makes it an ideal hub for Industry 4.0, especially for supporting digitalization among small and medium-sized industrial enterprises and enhancing cybersecurity. Minister Zidane added that the alliance demonstrates investor trust in Morocco's digital transformation and human capital development. He stressed the center's role in positioning Morocco as a continental tech hub, creating qualified jobs, and supporting national priorities in innovation, investment, and digital sovereignty. David Layani confirmed plans to hire 500 Moroccan talents over the next four years to help tackle major AI challenges. He also highlighted the importance of middleware-based solutions to enable secure, integrated digital expansion across sectors. This center aligns with Morocco's drive to become a regional leader in innovation and digital transformation.
