Morocco is taking a major step toward technological independence with a new partnership aimed at developing artificial intelligence models in Darija and Amazigh (Tamazight). French AI company Mistral AI announced the collaboration during the launch of Morocco’s national AI strategy, held on Monday in Rabat.
The initiative marks a significant milestone for Morocco’s AI localization efforts, reinforcing the country’s ambition to lead artificial intelligence innovation in Africa and the Arab world.
Building AI That Speaks Morocco’s Languages
Arthur Mensch, co‑founder and CEO of Mistral AI, revealed that these new language models will be able to understand and generate text, conversations, and voice interactions in Moroccan Darija and Amazigh. The company plans to integrate the models into chatbots, virtual assistants, and digital platforms built specifically for local users.
Mensch noted that the next development phase will focus on voice‑based interaction systems to make the technology more intuitive for people using smartphones and connected devices in everyday life.
Founded in 2023, Mistral AI is one of Europe’s rising stars in generative artificial intelligence, specializing in large language models (LLMs) and next‑generation deep learning technologies for both enterprise and public‑sector applications.
Local Teams and AI Talent Development in Morocco
As part of its expansion in North Africa, Mistral AI is exploring the creation of local teams in Casablanca and Rabat. The goal is to work hand‑in‑hand with Moroccan researchers and developers, building local AI expertise and ensuring that Morocco benefits from homegrown skills and innovation capacity.
“The partnership reflects our commitment to supporting Morocco’s vision for technological sovereignty while investing in local talent,” Mensch said, emphasizing long‑term collaboration with research institutes and developers.
Morocco’s “100% Moroccan” AI Programs
Morocco’s Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, Amal El Fallah, highlighted that the partnership aligns perfectly with the government’s new Maroc IA 2030 roadmap — a comprehensive plan to foster innovation, governance, and digital sovereignty.
Speaking to SNRTnews, the minister announced the launch of a series of “100% Moroccan” AI programs, centered around knowledge transfer and national innovation. She also paid tribute to the legacy of Abu Al‑Izz ibn Ismail Al‑Jazari, the celebrated Arab‑Muslim engineer considered a pioneer in early robotics and mechanical systems.
These new programs will be based around the upcoming Jazari Institute in Rabat, which will coordinate a network of AI learning centers across Moroccan cities to democratize access to artificial intelligence education and research.
Building a Regional AI Hub for Africa
At the Rabat event, Morocco signed a series of additional strategic partnerships and AI cooperation agreements, connecting academic research, technological innovation, and state administration. The goal is clear — to create a sustainable, integrated AI ecosystem that strengthens Morocco’s role as a regional and continental leader in artificial intelligence.
By embracing local languages and fostering domestic talent, Morocco is laying the groundwork for inclusive AI solutions that reflect its culture, identity, and diversity. The collaboration with Mistral AI places the country at the forefront of linguistic AI development, bridging global innovation with local digital sovereignty.
