Rabat – Morocco has officially launched the “Digital Hub for Sustainable Development” in New York, aiming to accelerate digital transformation across Africa and the Arab world.
The launch, held during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, reflects Morocco’s strategic vision under King Mohammed VI to become a regional leader in digital innovation.
This initiative was spearheaded by Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
The event was attended by Morocco’s Head of Government, Aziz Akhannouch, Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, Amal Falah Sghrouchni, and Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Omar Hilal.
Akhannouch emphasized the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) as a global priority, highlighting Morocco's commitment to leveraging technology for inclusive and sustainable human development. Minister Sghrouchni stated that the hub underscores Morocco’s determination to position technology as a catalyst for fairness, innovation, and opportunity, both within Morocco and across the broader African and Arab regions.
The hub will focus on the application of AI in vital sectors such as health, education, climate resilience, and governance. Additionally, it will empower women and youth to lead the digital transformation. The initiative seeks to address challenges common to African and Arab countries, such as fragmented systems, a lack of digital skills, high costs, and limited public policy coordination. By providing a regional platform for innovation and human-centered solutions, the hub aims to foster collaboration and development.
UNDP Acting Director Haoliang Shu praised the partnership, noting that the hub will create a unique space for Arab and African nations to develop and implement digital solutions that benefit both people and the planet.
Discussions at the event also explored the creation of a multilateral platform to unify standards, develop digital skills, and promote the responsible use of AI to support sustainable development.
Through this initiative, Morocco reaffirms its leadership in South-South cooperation on digital transformation, aligning with UN strategies and the digital agendas of the African Union and the Arab League.