Rabat is set to host the African Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS 2026) from July 20 to 24, a high-profile event dedicated to advancing maritime security and fostering international collaboration. Organized under the auspices of the Royal Moroccan Navy, in partnership with the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVAF) and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa (MARFORAF), the summit emphasizes innovation, policy alignment, and collective problem-solving to address pressing maritime challenges.
The 2026 edition introduces a fresh approach with interactive workshops designed to simulate real-world scenarios, enabling participants to test and refine national response strategies. The core mission remains unchanged: to strengthen regional stability by enhancing maritime domain awareness, combating illegal activities, and safeguarding vital sea lanes.
Addressing shared maritime threats
During a press briefing, Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy, highlighted Morocco’s commitment to fostering African cooperation and deepening regional security efforts. «This summit reflects our dedication to collective action in maritime peace and security,» he stated. «Discussions will center on emerging technologies, cross-border threats, and sustainable solutions to issues like illegal fishing, smuggling, terrorism, and environmental degradation.»
He stressed that maritime security is not just a strategic priority but a shared responsibility requiring ongoing dialogue, mutual trust, and coordinated action among all stakeholders. «No single nation can tackle these challenges alone,» he added. «Success depends on unified strategies, transparent communication, and robust partnerships.»
«We are confident this summit will deepen ties between African maritime forces and their international partners, facilitate knowledge exchange, and pave the way for a safer, more secure maritime future across the continent.»
Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of NAVAF, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the far-reaching impact of maritime insecurity on legal trade, food security, and regional stability. «The AMFS brings together African maritime leaders, Morocco, the U.S., and global partners to confront threats that transcend borders—piracy, illegal fishing, human trafficking, and transnational crime,» he explained. «These challenges demand a unified response, where nations, agencies, and services work in lockstep.»
«Our goal is to build resilient partnerships and empower professionals who can respond swiftly, secure their waters, and collaborate across borders when threats spill over,» Admiral Wikoff added. «This is about shaping lasting solutions, not just temporary fixes.»
Strengthening Morocco-U.S. defense ties
The summit also underscores the evolving defense relationship between Morocco and the United States, marked by growing bilateral cooperation in military innovation and industrial development. Following the announcement of the Atlantic Initiative at the recent African Lion military exercise, Morocco has shown strong interest in expanding its domestic defense sector, with a focus on enhancing naval capabilities and maritime security infrastructure.
Ben Ziff, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, confirmed that defense industrial collaboration is a key topic in bilateral discussions. «We are actively exploring co-production opportunities, job creation for Moroccan workers, and strengthening Morocco’s defense ecosystem,» he said. «This partnership is about leveraging our combined strengths to enhance security for both nations.»
«We continuously seek new avenues of cooperation to meet our mutual needs. Morocco’s robust industrial base makes it an ideal partner, and our shared efforts are focused on building a safer future through innovation and collaboration.»
In parallel, the AMFS 2026 will host the Senior Enlisted Leaders (SEL) Conference, providing a structured platform for African maritime officials to exchange best practices and develop innovative security solutions. The event reaffirms Morocco’s role as a regional leader in maritime governance and reinforces the nation’s strategic partnerships on the global stage.
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