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Green hydrogen: Morocco steps up the pace and establishes itself

With a major pilot project backed by Germany and the selection of six international consortia in the southern provinces, Morocco’s green hydrogen strategy is taking a decidedly operational turn. The Kingdom is pulling out all the stops to become a key supplier of clean energy to Europe.

Morocco is stepping up a gear in the global race for the energies of the future. Thanks to an exceptional combination of sunshine, wind resources, vast tracts of land and a strategic geographical proximity to the European continent, the Kingdom is actively rolling out its ‘Offre Maroc’ initiative for green hydrogen.

A large-scale pilot project in Guelmim-Oued Noun

At the heart of this initiative, the Masen agency is leading a flagship demonstration project in the Guelmim-Oued Noun region. Aiming to produce 10,000 tonnes of green hydrogen per year, this infrastructure will comprise:

A 200 MW hybrid solar and wind power plant;

An electrolyser with a capacity of at least 100 MW;

A seawater desalination plant based in Tan-Tan, whose port is earmarked to host future export infrastructure.

This strategic project is receiving significant financial support from the German Development Bank (KfW), which is providing €300 million in loans and grants.

Global giants mobilised in the southern provinces

The appeal of the Moroccan model is proving its worth to international investors. The Minister for Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, has officially announced the selection of six consortia to develop seven flagship projects spread across the three regions of southern Morocco.

Among the selected players are the OCP Group, as well as a consortium comprising Taqa Morocco and the Spanish group Cepsa. Ultimately, these investments are set to deliver nearly 20 GW of renewable energy capacity.

As the Minister emphasised, the sector is reaching a decisive milestone by moving “from a phase of intentions to a process of operational structuring”. Echoing the energy partnership sealed with Germany in 2020, these developments position Morocco, more than ever, as a key player in the Euro-Mediterranean energy transition.

Nador West Med: the port giant is launched ahead of schedule

Originally scheduled for 2027, the Nador West Med port complex began commercial operations as early as September 2026. Representing an investment of 51 billion dirhams, this new hub aims to transform the Oriental region into a major logistics centre in the Mediterranean.

Morocco is consolidating its position as an international maritime power with the early entry into service of its brand-new port giant. The port of Nador West Med, which was due to be inaugurated in 2027, has reached a historic milestone by welcoming its first commercial vessels as early as September 2026.

Thanks to this major project, the Kingdom is strengthening its port infrastructure alongside Tangier Med and injecting new economic momentum into the entire Oriental region.

The world’s largest container ships are already at berth

Commercial operations have commenced at the East Terminal, operated by the joint venture formed by the national operator Marsa Maroc and TiL (a subsidiary of the shipping giant MSC):

15 September 2026 : The arrival of the MSC Cedar II marked the official launch of the port’s operations.

Subsequent calls : The terminal quickly followed this up with a series of large-scale operations, welcoming the MSC Marie Leslie, followed by the MSC Samar, a colossus of the seas with a capacity of nearly 24,000 TEU.

Meanwhile, the West Terminal, operated by the Marsa Maroc and CMA CGM partnership, continues to expand. With a draught of 18 metres, Nador West Med is designed to accommodate, without any constraints, the largest ships currently in service worldwide.

A strategic catalyst worth 51 billion dirhams for the Oriental region

The result of a project led by a renowned consortium (Morocco’s SGTM, Luxembourg’s JDN and Turkey’s STFA), Nador West Med represents a total investment of 51 billion dirhams, of which 20 billion has been provided by the private sector.

From the outset, the port will have a capacity of 5 million containers per year, with prospects for expansion to as many as 12 million containers in the long term. To maximise its economic impact, the complex is accompanied by an initial industrial and logistics zone covering 700 hectares.

Complementing Tanger Med, this new hub confirms Morocco’s ambition to establish itself as the key logistics hub between Africa, Europe and the major global trade routes.

IMF: Morocco stays on course and targets 4.5 per cent growth

In its latest World Economic Outlook published in Bangkok, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecasts robust growth of 4.5 per cent for Morocco in 2026. This performance is all the more remarkable given that the MENA region is expected to face a contraction in economic activity.

At the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings held in Bangkok, the financial institution unveiled its World Economic Outlook report. The projections for the Kingdom demonstrate remarkable macroeconomic resilience in what remains an uncertain international environment.

Solid growth despite the downturn in the MENA region

The IMF anticipates a dynamic trajectory for the Moroccan economy, with gross domestic product (GDP) rising by 4.5 per cent in 2026, followed by 4.2 per cent in 2027. At the same time, inflation remains firmly under control: it is expected to stand at 0.9 per cent in 2026 before rising slightly to 1.4 per cent in 2027.

These indicators stand in stark contrast to regional and international conditions:

At regional level: The IMF forecasts a 2 per cent contraction for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) economy in 2026.

Globally: Morocco outperforms the global average, estimated at 3.1 per cent for 2026, whilst avoiding the global inflationary surge, which stands at 4.7 per cent.

International credibility that attracts investment

This positive momentum is bolstering the confidence of international markets and investors in the Moroccan model. In particular, the rigorous management of public finances and the sustained pace of structural reforms have enabled the Kingdom to regain its ‘investment grade’ status with the rating agency Standard & Poor’s.

Achieving this sovereign rating gives Morocco privileged access to financial markets on preferential borrowing terms. This is a decisive advantage for financing and accelerating the delivery of its major infrastructure projects, such as preparations for the 2030 World Cup, the development of the Nador West Med port complex and the roll-out of the green hydrogen sector.

CAS: Morocco awaits the verdict with composure

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has heard the appeal lodged by the Senegalese Football Federation in Lausanne regarding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. Pending the final decision, Morocco retains its title as African champions and continues to assert its central role in African football.

The legal saga surrounding the most recent Africa Cup of Nations is drawing to a close. The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has concluded its hearings with the Senegalese Football Federation, CAF and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) in Lausanne.

Whilst the verdict is expected in the coming days, Morocco is approaching this deadline with complete confidence. Relying on a title awarded in strict compliance with sporting regulations, the Kingdom remains focused on the future and on hosting major African competitions.

An African championship title grounded in the rules

To understand the dispute, one must look back to the tumultuous final on 18 January in Rabat. After the Senegalese players walked off following a penalty awarded to the Moroccan team in stoppage time, the match could not be completed.

On 17 March 2026, the Appeals Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) ruled that Senegal had forfeited the match and confirmed Morocco’s 3–0 victory, in strict accordance with Articles 82 and 84 of the Africa Cup of Nations regulations.

Having appealed against this decision to the CAS on 25 March, the Senegalese side was heard at a closed-door hearing on 8 October. The Director General of the arbitration body, Matthieu Reeb, stated that the decision would be handed down shortly. Until this ruling is announced, Morocco remains the reigning African champions.

Morocco: the undisputed capital of African football

Far from the Swiss courtrooms, Morocco continues to embody the beating heart of sport on the continent. Whilst Lausanne deliberates, the Kingdom will host the final phase of the Futsal Africa Cup of Nations from 12 to 21 October 2026.

In this competition bringing together the eight best African teams, the Atlas Lions futsal side will be playing on home soil to defend their title, having previously reigned supreme in Africa in 2016, 2020 and 2024.

Following on from a successful 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, characterised by modern facilities and strong spectator turnout, this new tournament confirms Morocco’s organisational excellence and its undisputed leadership within the African football landscape.

‘Moroccan saboteurs’ in Algeria: an official account that raises questions

The Algerian police claim to have arrested 61 Moroccan nationals accused of planning ‘acts of sabotage’. However, in the complete absence of concrete evidence and details regarding these alleged plans, this announcement raises numerous questions and reservations.

Algiers is making the accusations, but the evidence is lacking. The Algerian police have announced the arrest of 61 Moroccan nationals whom they describe as members of an ‘international criminal network’. According to the Algerian authorities, this group is alleged to have planned actions targeting national security.

However, no further details have been provided regarding the exact nature of the alleged plans. This particularly serious accusation, backed by very little tangible evidence, has raised eyebrows amongst observers and sparked strong reactions in Morocco.

A serious accusation without any details

According to a statement from Algeria’s General Directorate of National Security (DGSN), the 61 individuals, who were arrested in early October, “were preparing to carry out acts of sabotage undermining public security and order”. The Algerian security services state that the group is believed to include a former Moroccan soldier who is said to have travelled to Algeria from Tunisia via rugged mountain paths, following an initial journey by plane.

However, the Algerian account suffers from a glaring lack of detail. The authorities have not identified the potential targets, nor the nature of the planned attacks, nor provided any material evidence to support their claims. Faced with this terse statement, the Moroccan authorities have not yet issued an official response.

Gaps and inconsistencies in the official account

In analysing the DGSN’s statement, several media outlets, notably the Moroccan newspaper Médias24, have highlighted significant gaps in the Algerian police’s account:

Lack of operational equipment: No military equipment, weapons, explosives, maps or lists of targets were presented. When the seized items were displayed, only mobile phones, passports and a few dirham and euro notes were shown.

An implausible route: The idea that a large group of 61 foreign nationals could travel nearly 1,000 kilometres — from the Tunisian border to the city of Oran — without local logistical support and without being detected raises serious questions.

Doubts about the investigating unit: The unit appearing in the footage released by the DGSN specialises in combating illegal immigration, not in counter-terrorism or strategic intelligence.

A familiar line of rhetoric in a tense climate

This case comes against a backdrop of severely strained bilateral political relations. Since the severing of diplomatic ties, decided unilaterally by Algiers in 2021, this is not the first time that the Kingdom of Morocco has been singled out by the Algerian authorities as the designated culprit for internal tensions or difficulties.

Whilst uncertainty persists regarding the fate of these 61 Moroccan citizens, the lack of tangible evidence reinforces the notion that this is a political publicity stunt rather than the foiling of a genuine security threat.

Futsal Africa Cup of Nations: Morocco gets off to a flying start

As hosts of the 2026 Futsal Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco kicked off the tournament in Rabat in front of an enthusiastic crowd with a convincing victory. The Atlas Lions, three-time African champions, face Zambia this Wednesday as they look to consolidate their top spot.

The 8th Futsal Africa Cup of Nations kicked off on Monday 12 October in Rabat. With packed stands, an electric atmosphere and modern facilities, Morocco has pulled off a flawless launch of the tournament, which it is hosting until 21 October.

On the pitch, the host nation also rose to the occasion. Hicham Dguig’s men made a strong start, securing a convincing 4–0 victory in their opening match and immediately asserting their status as favourites.

Rabat, the capital of African futsal

Building on the success of recent tournaments hosted on home soil, Morocco has once again demonstrated its expertise in organising major events. The eight best African teams in the competition are sharing two modern venues in the capital: the Moulay Abdellah Sports Hall and the Yassine Hall. To ensure maximum visibility, all matches are being broadcast live on CAF TV.

From the very first evening, the supporters turned out in force, filling the stands at the Moulay Abdellah Stadium to capacity. In an electric atmosphere and in the presence of the FRMF president, Fouzi Lekjaa, the spectators gave a triumphant welcome to the Fennecs and the defending champions. Earlier in the day, in the opening match, Zambia had kicked things off with a 3–1 victory over Libya.

A convincing win led by Youssef Jaouad

Buoyed by this popular enthusiasm, Hicham Dguig’s players were in complete control from start to finish. The deadlock was broken as early as the 10th minute thanks to Younes Mkasri’s opening goal. In fine form, Youssef Jaouad then lit up the match by scoring a magnificent hat-trick (12th, 26th and 32nd minutes) to seal a clear-cut and flawless victory.

Thanks to this 4-0 win, Morocco have taken top spot in Group A, level on points with Zambia but with a better goal difference.

A decisive clash against Zambia this Wednesday

The action is already heating up in this group stage. This Wednesday, 14 October at 8.00 pm (GMT), the Atlas Lions will face off against Zambia in a top-of-the-table clash in Rabat, immediately following the match between Libya and their opponents of the day.

Crowned champions in 2016, 2020 and 2024, the African champions are aiming for a second consecutive victory. Another win would see Morocco take a decisive step towards the semi-finals, which are reserved for the top two teams in each group.

WAFCON 2026: Cameroon crowned champions as Morocco finish fourth

The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations came to an end in Morocco on Sunday, August 16, with Cameroon making history by winning their first-ever continental title. The Indomitable Lionesses produced a commanding performance at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, beating Malawi 3-0 in the final to lift the trophy.

Cameroon make history in Rabat

After reaching the final by eliminating hosts Morocco on penalties, Cameroon completed their campaign in style. The Indomitable Lionesses dominated the final against Malawi and secured a convincing 3-0 victory, officially becoming African champions for the first time in the history of the women’s competition. The triumph capped a remarkable tournament for Cameroon and provided a memorable finale in Rabat.

Malawi finish runners-up

Malawi’s historic run came to an end in the final. The Scorchers had reached the decisive match for the first time after defeating Algeria 3-1 in the semi-finals. Although they could not complete their journey with the trophy, their run to the final represents a major milestone for Malawian women’s football.

Algeria claim the bronze medal

Morocco had to settle for fourth place after losing the third-place play-off to Algeria. The match ended 1-1 after regulation time, forcing the two teams into a penalty shootout. Algeria eventually prevailed 3-2 on penalties to secure the bronze medal. For Morocco, the result brought a disappointing end to a tournament played on home soil, particularly after the Atlas Lionesses had reached the previous two finals.

Individual awards

The tournament also ended with several individual honours:

• Player of the Tournament: Monique Ngock
• Top scorer: Temwa Chawinga
• Best goalkeeper: Michaely Bihina
• Fair Play Award: Algeria

With Cameroon crowned champions, Malawi finishing second and Algeria taking bronze, the 2026 WAFCON concludes with a historic result and another memorable chapter for women’s football in Africa.

For Morocco, meanwhile, the tournament leaves behind the legacy of a major continental football event hosted across the country, with Rabat providing the setting for a dramatic final weekend.

WAFCON 2026: Cameroon and Malawi reach the final after dramatic night in Rabat

Rabat delivered a memorable night of women’s football on Wednesday, August 12, as Cameroon and Malawi booked their places in the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations final. The two teams overcame Morocco and Algeria respectively, setting up an unexpected final for Sunday, August 16.

Malawi makes history against Algeria

The first semi-final at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium was already historic before kick-off. Neither Algeria nor Malawi had previously reached this stage of the Women’s AFCON.

Malawi eventually made history with a 3-1 victory over Algeria, producing a performance that took the Scorchers into their first continental final.

The result confirms Malawi’s remarkable run in Morocco and gives the team a chance to compete for its first major African title.

Cameroon ends Morocco’s home dream

The second semi-final provided another major twist. Morocco, runners-up at the previous two editions, faced Cameroon with a place in the final at stake. Despite playing on home soil, the Atlas Lionesses could not find a way through a tightly contested encounter.

After a goalless 90 minutes, the semi-final was decided by a penalty shootout. Cameroon prevailed 3-1 on penalties, ending Morocco’s hopes of reaching a third consecutive final.

The result was particularly painful for the hosts, who had been hoping to lift the trophy in front of their home supporters.

A final Morocco did not expect

The outcome means that Cameroon will face Malawi in the WAFCON 2026 final on Sunday, August 16. Both finalists have taken different paths to the decisive match, but each has produced a major upset in the semi-finals.

Cameroon eliminated the host nation, while Malawi defeated Algeria in a historic encounter. For visitors and football fans in Morocco, Sunday’s final will provide another major occasion in what has been a highly competitive tournament.

Rabat prepares for the final

The elimination of Morocco means the final will not feature the hosts, but the tournament will remain in Rabat for its climax. Cameroon and Malawi will now compete for African women’s football’s biggest prize, with both sides looking to turn an extraordinary semi-final performance into continental glory. The final promises to be a historic encounter regardless of the outcome, with two teams now just one victory away from writing their names into WAFCON history.

Morocco vs Cameroon ticket row: What need to know ahead of the WAFCON semi-final

As Morocco and Cameroon prepare to meet in the semi-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, ticket availability has become an unexpected talking point ahead of the highly anticipated match in Rabat.

Cameroon’s ambassador to Morocco, S.E. Mouhamadou Youssifou, has requested a quota of 1,000 tickets for Cameroonian supporters. The situation has prompted questions among fans, but the ticketing difficulties should be viewed in the broader context of how the tournament’s ticketing system operates.

CAF oversees the WAFCON ticketing system

One of the key points to understand is that ticketing for the 2026 WAFCON is handled within the official framework established by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The continental governing body operates the official ticketing platform and its dedicated customer service system. The Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF) therefore does not have sole authority over ticket allocation or sales.

This distinction is important when assessing the current situation surrounding the Morocco-Cameroon semi-final.

No measure targeting Cameroon supporters

There is no indication of a specific measure designed to prevent Cameroonian fans from attending the match.

The limited availability should not be interpreted as evidence of a discriminatory policy, a political decision or an instruction targeting supporters of the Indomitable Lionesses.

The broader objective remains to allow as many supporters as possible from both teams to attend one of the biggest matches of the tournament.

Why tickets are difficult to find

Demand is a major part of the explanation.

Morocco is hosting the competition and support for the Atlas Lionesses has been particularly strong throughout the tournament. Large numbers of local fans have followed the team, while tickets for highly anticipated matches were reserved early.

With Morocco now one game away from reaching the WAFCON final, demand for the semi-final has naturally increased.

Limited availability is therefore primarily a question of stadium capacity and exceptionally high demand, rather than an attempt to keep Cameroonian supporters away.

Cameroon has requested 1,000 tickets

The Cameroonian embassy has formally requested 1,000 tickets for supporters travelling to or living in Morocco.

The request covers 50 Category 1 tickets and 950 Category 3 tickets.

Discussions are now taking place between the relevant stakeholders, including CAF and the local organising committee, to explore ways of facilitating access to the stadium for supporters of both national teams.

A football occasion for Morocco and Cameroon

The ticketing issue comes at a particularly sensitive moment, with both teams preparing for a crucial knockout match.

Morocco reached the last four after beating South Africa, while Cameroon produced one of the biggest results of the tournament by eliminating Nigeria.

The semi-final is therefore expected to attract considerable attention both inside Morocco and across Africa.

Rather than allowing the ticket issue to overshadow the sporting occasion, the focus is now on finding practical solutions for supporters.

The relationship between Morocco and Cameroon goes beyond football, with longstanding ties between the two countries. The semi-final should ultimately reflect that spirit: a celebration of African football featuring two major football nations, both competing for a place in the WAFCON final.