During this event, organized by the “Bizim Afrika” association, in collaboration with the Consulate of the Kingdom in Istanbul, young African professionals highlighted the dynamics underway on the continent and discussed ways to enable African diasporas around the world to contribute to building the future of Africa.
This meeting also highlighted Morocco’s dynamic role in strengthening the capacities of young Africans, helping them to highlight their potential.
Speaking on this occasion, the Consul General of the Kingdom in Istanbul, El Mehdi Rami, affirmed that Morocco places South-South cooperation at the heart of its diplomatic and development efforts, adding that regional solidarity and responsibility are the pillars of Morocco’s approach towards Africa.
“Aware of the importance of investment in youth, Morocco has a long tradition of investment in young Africans. Each year, more than 7,000 students from different African countries join Moroccan universities and higher institutes, thus contributing positively to the development of their societies and their countries”, he continued, recalling that hundreds of African professionals benefit from training in Morocco in various fields. He specified that nearly 62.9% of Moroccan foreign direct investments are destined for sub-Saharan Africa, thus offering young Africans opportunities to realize their dreams in their own continent.
Mr. Rami recalled that since 2022, Morocco has hosted the headquarters of the Pan-African Youth Union, a body dedicated to youth and national councils to the African Union.
In a statement to MAP, the general coordinator of “Bizim Afrika”, Farouk Mintoiba, explained that the event essentially aims to strengthen exchanges and networking between African skills residing in Turkey, “to enable them to act effectively in favor of the Africa of tomorrow that we wish to build”.
He added that this event brings together several figures from the African diaspora residing in Türkiye, who came to share their experiences and inspire the rising generations.
For her part, Rabab Kardalas, young Moroccan journalist and producer at the TRT Arabia channel, indicated that the event aims to strengthen exchanges and the sharing of ideas between young Africans residing in Turkey, while highlighting the importance of the integration of young Africans into Turkish society.
In a similar statement, the young journalist, who shared with the audience her vision of the role of the media in combating stereotypes regarding the African continent, stressed that the event also aims to provide young Africans with the necessary tools to integrate effectively while strengthening their African identity.
“Bizim Afrika” is an association founded in 2023 and which aims to bring together African diasporas in Turkey by offering them an organizational framework allowing them to create synergies between African skills and promote their professional and social integration in their host country.
Interview between Time.news Editor and El Mehdi Rami, Consul General of Morocco in Istanbul
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Mr. Rami. It’s a pleasure to have you here today. Let’s dive right into the impressive work that Morocco is doing to empower young Africans. During the recent event organized by the Bizim Afrika association, you mentioned the dynamics underway on the continent. Could you elaborate on what these dynamics are?
El Mehdi Rami (EMR): Thank you for having me. The dynamics I referred to encompass a range of factors including increasing political engagement, economic growth, and a burgeoning innovation scene among the youth across Africa. Young professionals are increasingly aware of their potential and are taking proactive steps to contribute to the future of their countries. The event itself was a manifestation of this spirit, as young African professionals gathered to exchange ideas and strategies.
TNE: It sounds inspiring! You spoke about Morocco’s role in strengthening the capacities of young Africans. What specific initiatives or programs does Morocco have in place to support this vision?
EMR: Morocco has long recognized the need to invest in the youth. Each year, we welcome over 7,000 students from various African countries into our universities and higher institutes. This not only opens doors for them but also ensures that they bring back the knowledge and skills they’ve acquired to contribute to their home countries. We also provide training opportunities for hundreds of African professionals across multiple disciplines, which has been crucial for personal and professional development.
TNE: That’s impressive. You mentioned that 62.9% of Moroccan foreign direct investments are aimed at sub-Saharan Africa. How do these investments create opportunities for young people specifically?
EMR: These investments are designed to stimulate economic growth and create jobs in sectors that are vital for development, such as renewable energy, agriculture, and infrastructure. For young Africans, this means more access to employment opportunities, but it also enables entrepreneurial ventures. We’re keen on fostering an environment where young people can realize their aspirations right here on the continent, thereby reducing the need for them to seek opportunities elsewhere.
TNE: It certainly seems like Morocco is taking a leading role in South-South cooperation. Can you discuss the importance of regional solidarity and responsibility in Morocco’s approach to Africa?
EMR: Absolutely! South-South cooperation is at the core of our diplomatic efforts. Morocco believes in a collaborative approach where African nations support one another. This reaches beyond economic ties; it’s about cultural exchange, knowledge sharing, and building networks. By strengthening these bonds, we can address shared challenges and leverage our collective strengths for mutual benefit.
TNE: This commitment to regional collaboration is commendable. Looking ahead, what do you envision for the future of African diasporas’ contributions to the continent?
EMR: I envision a vibrant and proactive diaspora that remains connected to its roots while leveraging its global experiences for the benefit of Africa. With better policies facilitating their engagement, we can create pathways for investment, technology transfer, and knowledge exchange. The potential is immense, and as African nations continue to innovate and collaborate, we will see a significant shift in the narrative about Africa.
TNE: Thank you, Mr. Rami, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that Morocco is not just fostering education and training but is also paving the way for a robust future for young Africans across the continent.
EMR: Thank you for the engaging conversation. Together, we will continue to build a promising future for Africa that is driven by its youth.