The third edition of the Arab-African Educational Congress on Smart Cities opened on Tuesday in Marrakech, under the theme: “Arab-African Visions and Strategies for Smart, Sustainable and Safe Regions.”
This event underscores Morocco’s ongoing commitment to urban transformation and South-South cooperation, while also highlighting its efforts to build resilient and innovative territories.
Organised by consulting firm Innovatel Engineering, the congress aims to strengthen collaboration between technical experts and decision-makers, particularly in the lead-up to the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco is set to co-host.
The event is expected to inspire new momentum behind the country’s flagship urban development projects.
According to Lotfi Bennani, CEO of Innovatel Engineering and initiator of the congress, the event offers a unique opportunity to gather key Arab and African stakeholders engaged in the transition toward smart and sustainable cities.
Fatna El Khiel, president of the Moroccan chapter of the Network of Locally Elected Women of Africa, emphasised the strategic importance of digitising local authorities. She views it as a powerful tool for improving public services, enhancing transparency, and encouraging broader citizen participation.
Abdelhadi Laghrari, a member of the Moroccan Association of Presidents of Municipal Councils (AMPCC), praised the relevance of the congress theme and called for stronger mobilisation in response to global digital transformations to support smart, transparent, and inclusive local governance.
The congress serves as a dialogue platform between the public and private sectors, focusing on key issues such as urban governance, technological innovation, sustainability, and mobility.
SL/te/lb/as/APA