African Open Government Conference in Rabat: Towards a New Era of Transparency and Participatory Governance.
African Open Government Summit Kicks Off in Rabat: "Towards an Open Africa"
The African Open Government Summit (AAGO) opened on Tuesday in Rabat, bringing together representatives from various African countries around the theme "Towards an Open Africa." This strategic event aims to promote more transparent, participatory governance that is closely aligned with citizens across the continent.
A Vision Championed by Morocco
In her opening remarks, the Minister of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, emphasized that this summit represents a collective commitment to strengthening the foundations of open government in Africa. She highlighted the role of this approach as a catalyst for modernizing public action, which enhances transparency, institutional performance, and trust between the state and its citizens.
In Morocco, this momentum aligns with a vision put forth by His Majesty King Mohammed VI, who places citizens at the heart of public policy and enshrines participation as a fundamental principle of governance.
The Central Role of Parliament and Institutions
Rachid Talbi Alami, President of the House of Representatives, reminded attendees that the principles of open government hinge on transparency, access to information, and citizen participation. He underscored the vital role of Parliament in:
- Adopting laws related to open governance,
- Overseeing government actions,
- Evaluating public policies.
Advanced Regionalization at the Heart of Local Governance
Governor Abdelouahab El Jabri noted that the principle of openness serves as a critical lever for implementing advanced regionalization. He highlighted the new integrated territorial development programs that are based on a participatory approach, driven by citizens’ expressed needs, to ensure a tangible impact on the ground.
International Recognition of Moroccan Reforms
French Delegate Minister Éléonore Caroit commended the reforms undertaken by Morocco since its accession to the Open Government Partnership (OGP) in 2018, notably:
- The law on the right of access to information,
- The digital transformation of the administration,
- Progress in regionalization.
She emphasized the importance of these reforms in strengthening more effective and transparent governance.
Africa at the Heart of the Open Government Movement
Aidan Eyakuze, Director General of the Open Government Partnership, affirmed that Africa now plays a central role in the evolution of the open governance model. According to him, the continent is no longer just adopting reforms; it is actively engaged in shaping new international standards regarding transparency, integrity, and citizen participation.
A Strategic Space for Dialogue and Cooperation
Organized by the Ministry of Digital Transition in partnership with the Open Government Partnership and Expertise France, the summit falls under the PAGOF program. Over three days, it gathers public officials, territorial institutions, and civil society representatives from several African nations.
Goals Focused on Impact
The AAGO aims to:
- Promote open government reforms,
- Share best practices,
- Enhance transparency and accountability,
- Improve the quality of public services.
Thus, it positions itself as a strategic platform for building more inclusive governance centered around citizens.
Through this summit, Rabat reaffirms its role as an African hub for dialogue on open governance. The event illustrates a continental momentum toward a more transparent, participatory, and effective administration, serving the needs of development and fostering citizen trust.
