Rabat is set to host the African Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS) 2026 from July 20 to 24, bringing together naval leaders from across the continent and international partners. Organized under the patronage of the Royal Moroccan Navy in collaboration with the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVAF) and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe-Africa (MARFORAF), the event places a strong emphasis on maritime security innovation and collective defense strategies.
The summit’s program is structured around three core pillars: national policy innovation through interministerial collaboration, regional cooperation with neighboring countries, and technological advancements in maritime surveillance and security. Organizers highlight the need to address shared challenges through enhanced capabilities and joint action, with a particular focus on combating illicit activities at sea.
addressing shared maritime threats
During a press briefing, Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy, underscored Morocco’s commitment to fostering African unity and regional stability. He noted that discussions would cover emerging technologies, cross-border threats, and collaborative frameworks to strengthen maritime domain awareness and counter illegal fishing, smuggling, and transnational crime.
«Maritime security is not just a national priority but a shared responsibility,» Tahin stated. «Achieving lasting solutions requires sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and coordinated action among all stakeholders, from African navies to international allies.» He emphasized the summit’s role in bridging gaps between nations to protect vital sea lanes that underpin regional economies and food security.
«This year’s AMFS is designed to deepen cooperation between African maritime forces and their global partners, fostering best practices and paving the way for a safer, more secure maritime future across the continent.»
Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of NAVAF, echoed this sentiment, stressing how maritime insecurity disrupts legal trade, food supplies, and daily life for coastal communities. «No single nation can tackle these challenges alone,» he said. «Pirates, illegal fishing, human trafficking, and terrorism transcend borders, demanding unified responses through shared intelligence, training, and operational partnerships.»
strengthening Morocco-us maritime partnerships
The AMFS 2026 also highlights the growing strategic alignment between Morocco and the United States in defense and maritime security. The bilateral relationship, which has strengthened over recent years, now includes discussions on local defense industry development, technology transfer, and joint production initiatives.
Ben Ziff, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Rabat, confirmed that Morocco’s expanding militaro-industrial base is a key topic in defense cooperation talks. «We are exploring avenues for co-production, job creation, and strengthening Morocco’s defense ecosystem,» he explained. «By leveraging our complementary strengths, we aim to enhance security for both nations and the broader region.»
«Morocco’s robust industrial capacity makes it an ideal partner for advancing shared security goals. Our collaboration is about building resilient systems that protect our interests and those of our allies.»
This year’s summit further integrates the Senior Enlisted Leaders Conference (SEL), providing a platform for African naval officers to exchange tactical insights and innovative solutions for common maritime challenges.
