A important progress is solidifying Morocco’s position on the international digital stage: the election of a leading expert to a key regional role. On Tuesday, January 13th, Abdessamad Moutei was chosen as the President of the North Africa internet Governance Forum (NAIGF) following a meeting of the Forum’s advisory committee.
This appointment reflects widespread confidence in Moutei’s extensive experience in digital policy and internet governance. It also underscores Morocco’s increasingly influential role in fostering the digital ecosystem across North Africa.Considering the rapid growth of internet penetration in the region – a 15% increase reported across North Africa in the last year alone, according to Statista – effective governance is more critical then ever.
The Role of the North Africa Internet Governance Forum
Operating under the umbrella of the United Nations’ Internet Governance Forum (IGF), the NAIGF is tasked with shaping a shared vision for the internet among North African nations. It aims to strengthen collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society. furthermore, the forum addresses crucial digital challenges, including cybersecurity threats, the digital divide, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.
I’ve found that these regional forums are vital because they allow for nuanced discussions tailored to the specific challenges and opportunities of each continent. A one-size-fits-all approach to internet governance simply doesn’t work.
Moutei, who also serves as a professor of higher education and Deputy Director for Continuing Education and Internships at the Higher institute of Information and Communication (ISIC), has outlined an enterprising agenda. His focus will be on deepening the integration of North African countries into the global digital economy. he emphasized the importance of safeguarding the region’s digital sovereignty while simultaneously building a secure and inclusive infrastructure for all citizens.
Did You Know? The digital economy in North Africa is projected to reach $115 billion by 2026, representing a significant growth opportunity for the region.
Alongside Moutei’s appointment, Egypt’s Shedy Hamed was named Vice-Chair of the Forum. This leadership team signifies a strong collaborative dynamic between key digital powers in the region, poised to present a unified voice on continental and international platforms. This collaborative spirit is essential, as cross-border data flows and cybersecurity threats require coordinated responses.
The North Africa Internet Governance Forum serves as a crucial platform for dialog on internet-related public policies. It bridges the gap between national initiatives, continental forums (like the African Internet Governance Forum), and the global stage represented by the united Nations’ Internet Governance Forum.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about regional internet governance forums like the NAIGF is crucial for businesses operating in North Africa. Understanding the evolving regulatory landscape can definitely help you navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
As we move further into 2026,the need for robust internet governance frameworks will only intensify. The NAIGF, under Moutei’s leadership, is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping a secure, inclusive, and prosperous digital future for North Africa. Are you prepared for the changes ahead?
| Feature | NAIGF | UN IGF |
|---|---|---|
| Geographic Scope | North Africa | Global |
| Focus | Regional Digital Policy | Broad Internet Governance |
| Stakeholders | Governments,Private Sector,Civil Society
Worth a look |