Rabat is set to host the African Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS) 2026 from July 20 to 24, bringing together naval leadership from across Africa and international partners under the leadership of Morocco’s Royal Navy. This year’s edition, organized in collaboration with the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVAF) and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe-Africa (MARFORAF), places maritime security, innovation, and cross-border cooperation at the forefront of discussions.

Strategic collaboration against shared maritime threats

The summit’s agenda is structured around three core pillars: national policy innovation through inter-ministerial coordination, regional collaboration with neighboring countries, and the integration of cutting-edge maritime security technologies. Organizers emphasize that these efforts aim to address common challenges such as illegal fishing, smuggling, maritime terrorism, and environmental threats affecting African coastal nations.

Interactive workshops for real-world solutions

New this year, the AMFS 2026 introduces hands-on simulation workshops where participants will work through realistic scenarios to strengthen national response strategies. Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy, highlighted the summit’s role in reinforcing Africa’s collective maritime resilience.

“The challenges we face—piracy, unauthorized fishing, human trafficking, and environmental degradation—require more than isolated action,” he stated. “They demand sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and unified efforts to build lasting solutions that secure our shared maritime domain.”

U.S.-Morocco partnership driving maritime defense progress

The summit also underscores the deepening defense ties between Morocco and the United States, particularly in naval and maritime security. Ben Ziff, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, noted that discussions are expanding beyond joint exercises to include local defense industry development and technology sharing.

“Morocco’s growing industrial capacity presents a strategic opportunity to enhance mutual security,” Ziff explained. “We’re exploring co-production initiatives that not only strengthen our defense capabilities but also create high-value jobs and bolster Morocco’s defense ecosystem.”

The AMFS 2026 will also include the Senior Enlisted Leaders (SEL) Conference, offering a dedicated platform for African naval non-commissioned officers to exchange best practices and innovative security approaches.

Admiral George Wikoff of NAVAF stressed the summit’s broader impact on regional stability, noting that maritime security directly influences trade, food security, and the livelihoods of millions relying on Africa’s oceanic routes.

“No single nation can tackle these threats alone,” he said. “Pirates off the Gulf of Guinea, illegal fishing vessels in West African waters, and arms smuggling across borders demand coordinated responses. This summit is where solutions begin.”