The Moroccan capital, Rabat, is set to host the African Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS) 2026 from July 20 to 24, a landmark event focused on maritime security and innovation. Organized under the leadership 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), this year’s summit introduces interactive workshops designed to tackle pressing maritime challenges through practical, scenario-based discussions.
a collaborative approach to maritime security
The AMFS 2026 program revolves around three core pillars: national policy innovation, inter-ministerial collaboration, and technological advancement in maritime security. The summit aims to address shared threats such as piracy, illegal fishing, human trafficking, smuggling, and environmental degradation, all of which transcend national borders and demand collective action.
Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy, emphasized the summit’s role in fostering African cooperation and regional stability. “This gathering underscores Morocco’s unwavering commitment to enhancing maritime security through dialogue, trust, and coordinated efforts,” he stated. “By integrating emerging technologies and sharing best practices, we can strengthen our collective capabilities to respond to evolving threats.”
The discussions also highlight the importance of maritime domain awareness, a critical component in combating illicit activities like unregulated fishing and transnational crime. Rear Admiral Tahin noted that sustainable solutions require not only technological innovation but also robust partnerships among African nations and international allies.
us-Morocco partnership drives maritime innovation
The AMFS 2026 takes place against a backdrop of deepening U.S.-Morocco military cooperation, particularly in maritime security. The summit serves as a platform to further this collaboration, with discussions centered on strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new avenues for joint initiatives.
Ben Ziff, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, underscored the significance of Morocco’s growing military-industrial sector. “Morocco is a key partner with a robust industrial base,” he said. “Our cooperation includes exploring co-production opportunities, job creation for Moroccans, and enhancing Morocco’s defense ecosystem. Together, we are building a more secure and resilient maritime future.”
The summit also features the Senior Enlisted Leaders Conference (SEL), providing a structured forum for African maritime leaders to exchange ideas, refine strategies, and develop innovative security solutions. This initiative reflects the broader goal of empowering local professionals to address crises, secure maritime access, and collaborate across borders.
Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of NAVAF, stressed the far-reaching impact of maritime security on trade, food security, and regional stability. “The threats we face—piracy, illegal fishing, and transnational crime—are interconnected and require unified responses,” he said. “By working together, we can shape sustainable solutions that protect Africa’s vital waterways and the communities that depend on them.”
