LEADERS from the global and African tech ecosystem have gathered in anticipation of the highly anticipated debut of GITEX Africa 2023 in Morocco this week. The event aims to advance the continent’s bold digital transformation missions and has garnered support from prominent tech companies.
During an industry roundtable briefing, senior executives from key exhibiting partners of Africa’s largest tech and start-up show expressed their commitment to Africa’s digital future. Among them was Orange Maroc, Morocco’s second-largest telecom operator. Hind Lfal, General Secretary of Orange Maroc, emphasised the company’s dedication to technological growth and supporting Africa’s digital transformation and inclusion initiatives.
‘As a Diamond Sponsor of the 1st edition of GITEX Africa, Orange Maroc is committed to accelerating the digital transformation of all companies, supporting the development of innovative Moroccan start-ups, and contributing to making Morocco a technological hub in Africa,’ said Lfal. She further highlighted Orange’s substantial investments in advanced connectivity networks, secure infrastructures, and their trusted cloud offerings.
Chinese technology giant Huawei, which opened its first office in Morocco in 2002, also showcased its commitment to Morocco’s digital transformation. Chakib Achour, Chief Strategy Officer at Huawei Morocco, highlighted the company’s engagement in Africa for the past 25 years and expressed excitement about GITEX Africa. He emphasised the opportunity to develop programmes and help companies grow, allowing the African region to explore digitalisation trends and technologies such as cloud, AI, and 5G.
Dell Technologies, a major enabler of digital transformation in the region, also participated as a headline exhibitor. Nawfal Saoud, General Manager, Morocco at Dell Technologies, highlighted the role of innovation in contributing to the realisation of Africa’s economic growth and job creation. He expressed enthusiasm about connecting with organisations and stakeholders passionate about Africa’s digital transformation, showcasing Dell’s end-to-end portfolio of solutions.
Other roundtable speakers, including representatives from AUSIM, EBRD, Deloitte Morocco Cyber Center, and SAP North and West Africa, also emphasised the potential of GITEX Africa in catalysing digital transformation and innovation across the region. They underlined the event’s role in empowering start-up ecosystems, fostering collaborations, and advancing Africa’s digital journey.
GITEX Africa 2023 is set to bring together 900 exhibiting companies, 250 leading investors, 250 conference speakers, and 30 government delegations from over 100 countries. The event aims to unite every community within Africa’s innovation ecosystem, with a focus on transformational topics such as AI, digital cities, fintech, agritech, healthcare, energy, innovation, and sustainable development goals.
Under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, GITEX Africa is organised by the Digital Development Agency (ADD) and hosted by the Moroccan Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform. The three-day event, held in Marrakech, is set to become a super connector in driving Africa’s digital agenda forward.