This continental event brought together ministers, public officials, and actors from the African cooperative movement to identify ways to strengthen the role of cooperatives in the continent’s economic transformation, according to an ODCO statement.
Representing Morocco, ODCO Director-General Aïcha Errifaai participated in the ministerial roundtable on strengthening national environments favorable to cooperatives. Her intervention highlighted Morocco’s experience, recognized for the robustness of its legal framework, the diversity of its cooperative sector, and the scope of its support programs. She also emphasized that the Moroccan model is based on participatory and inclusive governance, placing citizens at the center of development.
Quoted in the statement, Ms. Errifaai said, “The Moroccan cooperative movement embodies the values of solidarity and shared progress. It represents a key pillar for territorial development, the empowerment of women, and the creation of opportunities for youth.”
As a pioneer in structuring the cooperative sector, Morocco has established a strong institutional framework and support mechanisms tailored to diverse actors. ODCO plays a leading role in this effort by supporting the creation, professionalization, and sustainability of cooperatives through training, networking, and the promotion of local expertise.
This approach aligns fully with the Royal Vision for equitable human development, where cooperation and economic solidarity serve as tools for empowerment and social stability.
The Moroccan cooperative sector, now comprising over 63,000 cooperatives with nearly 780,000 members, reflects the vitality of a participatory economic model. The strong presence of women, representing 34 percent of members, illustrates progress in gender equality and economic inclusion.
Moroccan cooperatives also make a significant contribution to poverty reduction (SDG 1), food security (SDG 2), gender equality (SDG 5), and economic growth with decent work (SDG 8). This contribution positions Morocco as an active participant in implementing the United Nations 2030 Agenda, in full alignment with the African Union’s 2023–2033 strategy for social and solidarity-based economies.
During her speech, Ms. Errifaai also emphasized the importance of sharing experiences among African countries and the need for more integrated South–South cooperation. She noted that the success of cooperative models depends on a clear regulatory environment, stable institutional support, and a culture of innovation serving local communities.
In this regard, Morocco advocates for greater coordination between African institutions responsible for cooperation and the creation of joint funding and training mechanisms to benefit local cooperatives.
Morocco’s participation in the 14th AMCCO continues the efforts initiated during the 11th session of the African Technical Committee on Cooperatives, held in Essaouira in May 2025. At that session, Morocco called for stronger regional coordination and recognition of the economic role of cooperatives in combating poverty and social exclusion.
By reaffirming its commitment in Nairobi, ODCO confirms its role as a catalyst for cooperation and social innovation across the continent.
The 14th AMCCO coincides with the International Year of Cooperatives, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly. This alignment provides a privileged opportunity to celebrate the cooperative identity and reaffirm Morocco’s dedication to universal values of democracy, solidarity, and shared prosperity.
Through its participation, ODCO demonstrates that cooperation is not only an economic model but also a societal choice based on mutual support and shared responsibility.
“Through experience sharing, strengthening institutional dialogue, and networking actors, we are building together a cooperative Africa capable of addressing the challenges of sustainable development,” Ms. Errifaai concluded.
This participation marks another milestone in Morocco’s commitment to a modern and inclusive cooperative economy. By consolidating African partnerships and supporting the capacity-building of cooperatives, ODCO reaffirms its determination to make the cooperative model a sustainable driver of shared prosperity. The Office intends to continue its mission of innovation and openness, positioning Moroccan cooperative action within a dynamic of economic and social transformation in service of human development, the statement concludes.
Editorial team/le7tv