On January 17, 2025, Morocco formalized its commitment to Africa's development by signing two agreements with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) in Rabat.
The agreements include a headquarters agreement for establishing the AUDA-NEPAD National Office in Morocco and a framework cooperation agreement aimed at promoting development projects of mutual interest. The signing was conducted by AUDA-NEPAD Chief Nardos Bekele-Thomas and Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita.
Bekele-Thomas commended King Mohammed VI's vision and Morocco's dedication to African integration and support for AUDA-NEPAD's initiatives. The framework cooperation agreement underscores Morocco's commitment to advancing the African continent's development and aligns with the African Union's Agenda 2063.
In a separate meeting, Bekele-Thomas and Minister of Equipment and Water Nizar Baraka discussed enhancing partnerships in the water sector. Baraka highlighted Morocco's expertise in areas such as water conservation, renewable energy desalination, and integrated water management.
Bekele-Thomas noted the significance of this meeting in advancing discussions from 2022 regarding strategic continental projects, particularly in water management. She acknowledged Morocco's recognized role and innovative practices in redistributing water resources.
The AUDA-NEPAD's mandate is to coordinate development activities across Africa and mobilize necessary resources for project implementation.