Enhancing African Integration Through Transport and Logistics
On October 20, 2026, in Casablanca, Morocco, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Abdessamad Kayouh, emphasized the strategic choice made by Morocco to develop connectivity and enhance African integration, a vision driven by His Majesty King Mohammed VI. This statement was made during the opening of the 3rd edition of the International Forum and Exhibition on Mobility, Transport, and Logistics, known as LOGITERRE 2026.
Minister Kayouh articulated that this strategy is fundamentally based on the improvement of national infrastructures and fostering deeper ties with Africa. The aim is to support South-South cooperation and to strengthen collective development and integration. He pointed out that the current global landscape is marked by instability and uncertainty, which disrupt supply chains and international trade, thereby underlining the critical role of transport and logistics in boosting the competitiveness of economies.
Highlighting the significance of these transformations for the African continent, the minister noted Africa's rich human and natural resources, production potential, and markets. However, he acknowledged that this potential is hindered by high logistics costs, inadequate transport network connectivity, and border crossing challenges. According to him, the realization of opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is contingent upon the establishment of interconnected transport networks and efficient logistics services.
Furthermore, Abdessamad Kayouh showcased the Royal Initiative aimed at facilitating access for Sahel countries to the Atlantic Ocean, which opens avenues to enhance regional connectivity and improve these nations' access to international markets. This initiative also reflects Morocco's commitment to South-South cooperation, solidarity, and partnerships aimed at fostering prosperity among the continent's peoples. Among the key Moroccan infrastructures involved, he mentioned the Tangier Med Port, Nador West Med Port, Dakhla Atlantic Port, and the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, along with planned logistics zones covering over 750 hectares.
LOGITERRE 2026: A Platform for Dialogue and Development
Mustapha Chaoune, the president of the African Union of Transport and Logistics Organizations (UAOTL), reiterated that the theme of this year's event is "The Economy of Transport and Logistics: A Strategic Lever for Africa's Development." He pointed out that the contribution of the transport sector to the GDP of African countries remains below 2.5%. The forum serves as a vital platform to discuss the challenges that hinder the sector's growth in both Africa and Morocco.
Under the High Patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the 3rd edition of LOGITERRE is taking place from October 20 to 22, 2026, at the Casablanca International Fair. Organized by the UAOTL in collaboration with the Economic, Social, and Cultural Council of the African Union (ECOSOCC), the event gathers public decision-makers, regional institutions, economic operators, experts, and technological partners to discuss logistical corridors, value chain digitalization, smart mobility, and the transition to green logistics.
As reported by atlasinfo.fr.
