Rabat is set to host the African Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS) 2026 from July 20 to 24, bringing together naval leaders, policymakers, and security experts to address pressing maritime challenges. Organized under the aegis of the Royal Moroccan Navy in collaboration with the U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa (NAVAF) and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa (MARFORAF), the summit places a strong emphasis on innovation, regional cooperation, and technological advancements in maritime security.
The event’s program is structured around three core pillars: national policy innovation—enhancing inter-ministerial collaboration, cross-border partnerships, and technological upgrades; capacity building—strengthening collective responses to maritime threats; and sustainable solutions—fostering long-term security frameworks. A notable addition this year is the introduction of interactive workshops featuring real-world scenarios, designed to simulate and refine national responses to emerging threats.
addressing shared maritime threats
Speaking at a press briefing, Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy, underscored Morocco’s commitment to fostering African maritime security. “This summit reflects our unwavering dedication to regional stability and collective peace-building efforts,” he stated. “The discussions will focus on integrating emerging technologies, enhancing maritime domain awareness, and tackling illicit activities such as illegal fishing, smuggling, and transnational crime.”
He further emphasized that maritime security is not just a strategic priority but a shared responsibility. “Achieving lasting security demands sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and coordinated action among all stakeholders,” he added. The summit’s agenda also includes sessions on countering piracy, environmental protection, and irregular migration—all critical concerns for African coastal nations.
“We firmly believe this gathering will deepen cooperation between African maritime forces and our international partners, paving the way for best practice exchanges and a safer, more secure maritime future for the continent.”
Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of NAVAF, highlighted the broader implications of maritime security. “Stable sea lanes are the backbone of global trade, food security, and regional stability,” he noted. “The AMFS provides a vital platform for African and U.S. leaders to collaborate on challenges that transcend borders—piracy, illegal fishing, human trafficking, and terrorism.”
“These threats demand a unified response,” he stressed, adding that the summit aims to cultivate professional partnerships capable of securing maritime access and responding to cross-border crises. “Our goal is to empower partners with the tools and expertise needed to safeguard their waters and cooperate effectively when threats spill across national boundaries.”
strengthening Morocco-us maritime partnership
The AMFS 2026 takes place against a backdrop of deepening bilateral ties between Morocco and the United States. The two nations have progressively expanded their military cooperation, with a growing focus on maritime security and defense industry collaboration. Following the announcement of the Atlantic Initiative at the recent African Lion military exercise, Morocco has shown keen interest in bolstering its domestic defense sector—an area where U.S. expertise and investment could play a transformative role.
Ben Ziff, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, confirmed that defense industrial cooperation is a key topic of discussion. “We are actively exploring avenues to enhance joint production, create local jobs, and strengthen Morocco’s defense manufacturing ecosystem,” he said. “Our partnership is built on shared capabilities and mutual security needs.”
“Morocco’s robust industrial base makes it an ideal partner. By pooling our resources, we can achieve greater security for both our nations.”
The summit also coincides with the Senior Enlisted Leaders (SEL) Conference, offering a structured forum for African naval officers to exchange insights and innovative security solutions. Together, these initiatives underscore Morocco’s role as a pivotal player in shaping Africa’s maritime security agenda.
