Morocco and UNDP Forge Digital Future for Africa and Arab States in Landmark Tech Alliance

iNewsAfrica | Technology Desk

Rabat, Morocco – July 9, 2025 – In a bold move to reshape the digital landscape of Africa and the Arab world, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Morocco have launched a landmark partnership to drive inclusive and ethical digital transformation across both regions.

Signed in Rabat, the agreement aims to scale up digital public infrastructure, close connectivity gaps, and establish governance frameworks that harness artificial intelligence (AI) responsibly—all while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the core of the partnership is the new Digital for Sustainable Development Hub, co-created by UNDP and Morocco’s Ministry of Digital Transition and Administration Reform.

“Digital technology can unlock progress for millions—but only if it is inclusive, ethical, and people-centered,” said Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator. “This partnership positions Morocco as a regional digital leader and builds a platform for collective innovation.”

Morocco, home to ambitious digital platforms like Rokhas.ma, is increasingly viewed as a digital gateway for the African continent. The country’s growing influence in tech governance, highlighted by its hosting of global tech summits such as GITEX Africa, makes it a natural partner for the UNDP’s digital transformation push.

Bridging the Digital Divide

While internet usage in Africa has risen to 38% and 70.3% in the Arab region, millions remain digitally excluded due to weak infrastructure, limited AI literacy, and fragmented regulatory frameworks. The initiative seeks to address these disparities by:

• Deploying scalable digital tools and platforms

• Fostering regional digital policy coordination

• Building AI and data governance capacity in public institutions

A Model for the Future

The Rabat agreement follows similar UNDP tech partnerships in Asia and Latin America and is part of a broader strategy to democratize access to AI and digital public goods.

For African and Arab nations, this alliance signals a pivotal shift—from digital dependency to digital leadership.

Source: iNewsAfrica Technology Desk
Contact: publisher@inewsafrica.com
Tags: #DigitalAfrica #UNDP #MoroccoTech #AIinAfrica #ArabDigitalHub #SDG2030