Connect with us

Business

Morocco sets the stage for Africa’s digital future ahead of continental launchpad event for innovation, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital leadership in Marrakech

Published

on

Artificial Intelligence

GITEX AFRICA Morocco will be a pivotal display of African innovation – boosting investor interest for the continent’s digital ecosystem

RABAT, Morocco, April 10, 2025/APO Group/ –Morocco will once again play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s digital landscape. As the country continues to develop as a tech-driven hub, it has become a regional reference for the continent’s recognition as global force in technology – with innovation and AI at its core.

That was the message delivered by a panel of speakers during the GITEX AFRICA Morocco press conference in Rabat, ahead of the continent’s largest tech and startup event opening in Marrakech from 14-16 April 2025.

With a focus on powering Africa’s innovation-driven future, the event is held under the high patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, May God Assist Him, the authority of the Kingdom’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, in partnership with Digital Development Agency (ADD), and organised by KAOUN International – the overseas event agency of Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and organiser of GITEX events globally.

Mrs Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, Minister of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, Government of Morocco, said: “Morocco’s choice to host this major continental event, which is an annual showcase allowing the world to discover Africa’s digital and technological talents and potential, is the result of rigorous and sustained work aimed at making our country a regional digital hub. It is also part of the implementation of the High Royal Guidelines of His Majesty the King Mohammed VI, may God assist Him, who called for the training of qualified skills in the various digital fields, the anchoring of a culture of responsible digitalisation within society and the development of technological infrastructures capable to keep abreast of rapid changes in the sector should be developed.”

Mr. Mohammed Drissi Melyani, Director General of the Digital Development Agency, said: “GITEX Africa Morocco has become a major annual milestone on the global tech agenda and a defining moment in the continent’s digital transformation. It seamlessly blends innovation, investment, research, and institutional collaboration, making it much more than a simple technology exhibition. It reflects the vision of a continent that no longer settles for consuming technology but is determined to create it—one that doesn’t just keep pace with innovation but plays an active role in steering its course.”

Trixie LohMirmand, Chief Executive Officer, KAOUN International, said: This third edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco shall usher the African economies into the epoch of Ai evolution. Great opportunities for businesses and societies ensue, but first with the collective commitment to develop capacity for the transition. GITEX AFRICA will converge in Morocco global ecosystem experts and enablers to empower and inspire stakeholders in their mission.”

While GITEX AFRICA Morocco is set to welcome more than 45,000 visitors and participants from over 130 countries, the show has grown to feature over 1,450 exhibitors with new countries represented within the African continent – from Gabon, Niger, and Zambia – as well as markets across Europe and Asia – including Belgium, Switzerland and Uzbekistan.

Fuelling Africa’s startup ecosystem

GITEX Africa Morocco has become a major annual milestone on the global tech agenda and a defining moment in the continent’s digital transformation

As funding for African startups rebounds to pre-pandemic levels, exceeding $2 billion, international startup investing powerhouses have turned their attention to Africa’s startup ecosystem. The European Innovation Council (EIC) – Europe’s largest deep-tech investor – will attend GITEX AFRICA Morocco across its conference and workshop tracks, while the International Finance Corporation (IFC) will host 10 standout African startups as part of its SheWins Africa programme on the show floor.

Bolstering EIC and IFH’s attendance across 1,500 facilitated meetings is a contingency of more than 350 investors from 35 countries ready to meet entrepreneurs and enterprises head on to satisfy the demand for sustainable and viable tech solutions. With over $200 billion assets under management, investors from the likes of AFRICINVEST, techstars, and Ventures Platform are ready to fund Africa’s next big idea.

African and international startups will come into focus across a number of show features, including an onstage interview with Awa Gueye from Africa’s billion dollar start up, Wave Mobile Money; the Supernova Challenge – Africa’s largest early-stage startup competition – set to supercharge new companies with an seasoned judging panel; the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform in partnerships with the Digital Development Agency (ADD) will boost the globalisation of Moroccan startups through Morocco 200; and GITEX AFRICA Morocco’s startup showcase, serving as a bridging point between visitors, innovators and disruptors.

International tech giants debut at GITEX AFRICA’s third edition

International tech organisations will also make a debut at the show, looking to seize on growth opportunities during the three days, forging new partnerships and showcasing their latest tech innovations. These include tech giants Cisco, Ericsson, Nokia, China Mobile and Salesforce. Further afield, Saudi Made – a celebration of the of the Kingdom’s technical innovation, creative talent and business acumen, and Presight, part of the G42 group, the leading big data analytics company powered by AI – represent a strong Middle East presence.

Building on the resounding success of previous editions, GITEX AFRICA Morocco is primed to forge new partnerships and explore new industries, thereby elevating its influence and impact on Africa’s digital landscape even further. The 2025 edition presents an expanded agenda beyond its traditional focus on AI, cybersecurity, telecoms to cover, energy transition, mobility, edutech, sports technologies, and agritech.

GITEX AFRICA Morocco returns for its third year with support from institutional partners: ANRT, Royal Air Maroc, ONCF, OCP, ONDA, AMDIE, ONMT and CGEM.

For news and updates on GITEX AFRICA Morocco, please visit: www.GITEXAfrica.com.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa

Business

Namibian President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah to Open Namibia International Energy Conference 2025

Published

on

Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah

The Namibia International Energy Conference 2025, under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy, will be officially opened by President Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, marking a historic milestone in Namibia’s journey to becoming a global energy hub

WINDHOEK, Namibia, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –The Namibia International Energy Conference (NIEC) is proud to announce that the President of the Republic of Namibia, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, will officially open the 2025 edition of the conference.

“We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency, the President of the Republic of Namibia, will officially open this year’s conference. Her participation marks a historic milestone for NIEC and reaffirms the government’s commitment to harnessing Namibia’s energy potential for shared prosperity. It also reflects the kind of forward-looking leadership that is essential to positioning Namibia as an emerging leader in the global energy landscape.” said Ndapwilapo Selma Shimutwikeni, Founder & CEO of RichAfrica Consultancy and Convenor of NIEC.

President Nandi-Ndaitwah is a committed advocate for ensuring that Namibia derives maximum value from its natural resources through value addition and sustainable development, with a focus on uplifting the Namibian people and strengthening local capacity.

We are deeply honoured that Her Excellency, the President of the Republic of Namibia, will officially open this year’s conference

As Namibia lays the foundations to become an energy hub, NIEC 2025 will explore the key building blocks needed to realize this vision. These include enabling investment, strengthening institutions, advancing infrastructure and environmental stewardship, promoting local content and reinforcing good governance. Energy is increasingly recognized as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development – unlocking industrialization, economic diversification, job creation and long-term prosperity.

Now in its 7th edition, NIEC 2025 will be held under the theme, “Leading the Way: Becoming an Energy Hub with In-Country Value,” and is scheduled to take place from 23-25 April 2025 at the Windhoek Country Club Resort, Windhoek, Namibia.

Since its inception in 2012 under the theme, “A Road to Discovery and Beyond,” the conference has evolved into a premier platform for high-level dialogue, thought leadership and strategic engagement. It has played a crucial role in shaping discourse around Namibia’s emerging oil and gas industry and its broader energy sector.

The event draws a global audience, including OPEC representatives, senior executives from international oil companies, prominent service providers, investors and industry experts. It has also welcomed numerous government leaders from across Africa, including ministers of energy, as well as Namibia’s own public and private sector leaders.

NIEC 2025 will feature a strategic program of panels, dialogues and expert-led sessions designed to unpack the conference theme and spotlight key issues and opportunities that will define the future of the energy industry. The 2025 edition is expected to welcome over 1,000 delegates from across the globe, reinforcing its position as the country’s premier energy platform.

The conference is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Energy of the Republic of Namibia and is curated and convened by RichAfrica Consultancy, with the African Energy Chamber as a strategic partner.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber

Continue Reading

Business

Ministry of Health and KAOUN International launch GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA in Morocco

Published

on

GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA

GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco will drive unprecedented impact across Africa, leveraging breakthroughs in technology and AI to enhance quality and access to healthcare

MARRAKECH, Morocco, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –During the third annual edition of GITEX AFRICA Morocco (www.GITEXAfrica.com), the continent’s largest tech and startup show, His Excellency Mr. Amine Tehraoui, Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection announced the launch of GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco – in partnership with KAOUN International, organiser of GITEX in Africa and globally.

The much anticipated and pivotal event for the healthcare economy was officially launched with the signing of the partnership agreement, and will be held under the authority of Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection, hosted in partnership with Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health (FM6SS), and organised by KOAUN International, the organiser of GITEX in Africa and globally.

To be hosted in Casablanca from 21-23 April 2026, GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco, featuring GITEX DIGI_HEALTH, is set to lead the transformation impetus of Morocco and Africa to combat challenges in healthcare information, delivery, access and efficiency, capitalising on the emergence of AI and digital technologies.

The event will prioritise public-private partnerships which are particularly instrumental in this digital mission to advance the industry productively and efficiently

H.E. Mr. Amine Tehraoui, Minister of Health and Social Protection, stated: “GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco embodies the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to health as a fundamental and universal human right, enshrined in our national vision for health system reform. As digital innovation, data intelligence, and health tech increasingly shape the future of care delivery across Africa, this platform reinforces Morocco’s position as a regional hub for collaboration, talent, and investment. Through international partnerships, strategic innovation, and shared expertise, we have a unique opportunity to co-build inclusive, resilient, and people-centered healthcare systems for the continent and beyond.”

For its part, the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health emphasized its strategic vision: “As a major player in the fields of health, training, and scientific research, the Mohammed VI Foundation for Sciences and Health is committed, alongside the Ministry of Health and Social Protection and KAOUN International, to making Morocco a continental hub for healthtech. By contributing its medical and academic expertise through the development of digital health and medical technologies in Morocco and Africa, we aim to help shape the healthcare ecosystem of tomorrow.”

Morocco has emerged as a pioneer in digital health initiatives and advancing expeditiously towards an integrated health information system, fostering the adoption of innovative medical technologies to build a resilient healthcare infrastructure and system. The African healthcare market is estimated to be worth US$259 billion and expected to become the second biggest market after the US by 2030.

Trixie LohMirmand, CEO of KAOUN International, organiser of GITEX globally, commented: “There is urgency from governments and healthcare institutions worldwide – and especially in Africa – to modernise and digitise their healthcare services to increase reach, reduce healthcare costs and deliver better patient outcomes. GITEX FUTURE HEALTH AFRICA/Morocco will highlight the role and growing influence of AI and new digital solutions to improve data-driven decision making and reduce health inequities. The event will prioritise public-private partnerships which are particularly instrumental in this digital mission to advance the industry productively and efficiently.”

The three-day event will open with an agenda shaping leadership summit tackling powerful themes – accelerating cutting-edge solutions set to transform access, outcomes and health equity. Targeting decision-making executives from hospitals and healthcare institutions, health ministers and government leaders, CIOs, CTOs, innovators and disruptors, and public health policymakers – topics during the summit will explore health infrastructure, expanded access to healthcare, investment and research, data security and national records integration, health and data analytics, and AI-powered diagnostics.

An exhibition will bring together top researchers, practitioners, innovators, and experts from the global healthcare industry – representing Africa’s most important gathering of medical & lab equipment, imaging & diagnostics, IT systems & solutions, healthcare infrastructure, healthcare transformation, smart hospitals, healthcare management, and digital health management systems in Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of GITEX Africa

Continue Reading

Business

Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG) Appoints APO Group Founder, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, to Advisory Board

Published

on

Critical Minerals

CMAG gives Africa and the companies operating within the African critical minerals ecosystem a voice in discussions about supply chains and shaping policy

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, April 15, 2025/APO Group/ –APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the award-winning pan-African communications consultancy and leading press release distribution service, is pleased to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), has been appointed to the newly formed Advisory Board of the Critical Minerals Africa Group (CMAG).

With its mission being to position Africa as a leader in critical minerals, CMAG (www.CMAGAfrica.com) is dedicated to advancing responsible sourcing and sustainable development of Africa’s critical mineral resources, while ensuring that local economies benefit from the continent’s mineral wealth. With approximately 40% of the world’s essential minerals reserves estimated to be held in Sub-Saharan Africa alone, the region plays a key role in the global energy transition and advanced technologies.

Pompigne-Mognard’s appointment to the Advisory Board follows the announcement of a strategic partnership between APO Group and CMAG aimed at raising the global prominence of Africa’s critical minerals sector. The partnership leverages APO Group’s public relations and strategic communications expertise and CMAG’s industry leadership. Complementing this, Pompigne-Mognard’s ability to connect clients with key stakeholders from governments, private companies, and organisations of all sizes will be invaluable in showcasing Africa’s role in the global essential resources supply chain and elevating the profile of Africa’s critical minerals sector.

In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa’s critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner

Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the CMAG Advisory Board. His vast network across industries, governments, and institutions, his deep understanding of Africa’s media and technology landscapes, and his extensive business experience will equip him to work alongside fellow Advisory Board members to shape positive perceptions of Africa’s critical minerals sector amongst global stakeholders and audiences.

A Franco-Gabonese entrepreneur named among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023 and 2024, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard serves on multiple high-profile advisory boards and international committees. These include the Senior Advisory Board of the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business and the Leadership Council of the Africa Tech Festival, as well as the Advisory Boards of the African Energy Chamber, World Football Summit, Africa Hotel Investment Forum (AHIF), Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa, Sports Africa Investment Summit, EurAfrican Forum, and All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA). He is also a strategic advisor to the Chief Executive Officer of the Royal African Society of the United Kingdom, a strategic advisor to the EU-Africa Chamber of Commerce, and a special advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa.

Nicolas’ wholly-owned company, APO Group, is the premier award-winning Pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service. It serves more than 300 clients, including global giants such as Canon, Nestlé, Western Union, UNDP, Network International, the African Energy Chamber, Mercy Ships, Marriott, Africa’s Business Heroes, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies.

“Being appointed to the Critical Minerals Africa Group Advisory Board is an immense honour. CMAG is vital in safeguarding Africa’s critical minerals for future generations. In my advisory role, I look forward to supporting all initiatives as CMAG showcases Africa’s critical minerals potential in a responsible and sustainable manner,” said Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group.

Other members of the Advisory Board include Natznet Tesfay, Executive Director, Head of Insights and Analytics, S&P Global, and Richard Morgan, Former Head of Government Relations, Anglo-American PLC.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group

Continue Reading

Trending