The Launch of a Cultural Hub in Rabat
The city of Rabat, Morocco, has officially inaugurated the permanent headquarters for the program known as the African Capitals of Culture (CAC). This significant event took place on June 18, 2026, and was attended by prominent figures from the African cultural and diplomatic spheres. This newly established continental institution aims to enhance cultural cooperation, promote creative industries, and utilize culture as a driving force for development and cohesion across the African continent.
A Symbol of Cultural Exchange and Collaboration
Located in the Souissi neighborhood of Rabat, the CAC headquarters was provided by King Mohammed VI and showcases a diverse collection of artworks and cultural artifacts from various regions of Africa, highlighting the continent's rich cultural heritage. During the inauguration, Mehdi Bensaïd, the Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, conveyed a message emphasizing that the establishment of this headquarters symbolizes the trust placed in Morocco and its commitment to providing a platform for intercultural dialogue, cooperation, and the coordination of initiatives aimed at promoting African cultures.
Rabat was selected as the host city for this institution after a competitive selection process among several candidates. Minister Bensaïd expressed his belief that culture is not a luxury but rather a vital component for social cohesion, economic development, and the transmission of knowledge and innovation. Adama Traoré, the president of the African Capitals of Culture Committee, noted that the concept of cultural capital has been successfully implemented in various regions globally, with Rabat recognized in 2022 and Praia in Cape Verde designated for 2028.
The CAC program, championed by the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLG Africa), was established at the eighth edition of the Africities Summit held in Marrakech in November 2018. Khalid Tamer, the executive director of the CAC Secretariat and the head of the new headquarters, stated that this initiative aligns with the strategic objectives of the African Union concerning culture, creativity, heritage promotion, and sustainable development. He emphasized that the establishment of this permanent headquarters would further solidify Rabat's position as a cultural crossroads and a cooperative platform among Africa's cultural ecosystems. Senegalese committee member Aminatou Lo Pay commended Morocco's commitment to advancing African cultural initiatives, viewing the establishment of this institution as a tangible demonstration of that commitment.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
