ClimAfrica 2025 Forum: Ryad Mezzour Highlights Morocco and Africa’s Role in Building a Green and Competitive Industry
Ryad Mezzour, the Minister of Industry and Trade, affirmed during his participation in the ClimAfrica 2025 forum held in Skhirat, the strategic role of Morocco and Africa in addressing climate change challenges and transitioning to a low-carbon, resilient, and competitive industry.
The minister opened his speech by referencing the High Royal Message that highlighted Africa’s potential to be part of global solutions for climate issues and the challenges of the 21st century. He applauded the forum’s theme, “From Risk to Resilience: Meteorology and Innovation Serving Africa,” noting that the subject embodies the integration of innovation in climate action and economic competitiveness.
Morocco as a Key Player in Energy and Industrial Transition
Mezzour explained that Morocco is one of the most competitive countries globally in renewable energy, capable of covering up to 15% of the European Union’s energy demand. He emphasized that industry and the environment will be fundamental drivers of economic growth by 2030, enhancing the kingdom’s attractiveness and establishing its position as a carbon-free industrial base grounded in a circular economy, capable of attracting low-carbon investments.
He also highlighted the role of the OCP Group, a global leader in phosphate fertilizers, in implementing a green investment program (2023-2027) aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2040. He pointed out Morocco’s ambition to become a key player in the green hydrogen sector through the “Morocco Green Hydrogen Offer” initiative, which encompasses the entire value chain, from renewable electricity production to conversion into ammonia, methanol, and synthetic fuels, creating vast opportunities for employment and manufacturing.
Industry and Innovation for Sustainability
The minister confirmed that Morocco already possesses strong capabilities in solar and wind energy, water desalination, and energy storage. The industrial transition towards sustainability requires effective policies for decarbonization, rational energy and water consumption, circular economy development, and ecological design.
He indicated that the ministry supports innovative projects through the Innovation Fund, enabling startups and industrial stakeholders to develop practical solutions addressing energy and climate challenges, such as wave energy converters, optimized wind turbine models, and advanced solar systems.
A Clear Vision for Africa
Mezzour concluded by stating: “Morocco believes that there is no industrial future without sustainability, and no sustainability without innovation. By placing climate resilience at the heart of our industry, we prepare not only Morocco but all of Africa for building a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future.”
He stressed that climate change should be viewed as a historical opportunity to accelerate industrialization in Africa and empower it to regain its rightful place in the global economy.
