The significant advancements made by Morocco in the social and solidarity economy (ESS) were prominently featured on Tuesday in Dakar. This took place during the opening of the second African Social and Solidarity Economy Forum (FORA’ESS Dakar 2026), an event dedicated to fostering sustainable development across the continent.

During a workshop focused on “Citizen and Social Transition: Performance and Impact Measurement,” Khadija Douiri, a distinguished teacher-researcher from the Faculty of Economic, Legal and Social Sciences at Mohammed Premier University in Oujda, underscored the critical role of the social and solidarity economy. She emphasized that ESS has emerged as a top developmental priority for Morocco and numerous other African nations today.

Ms. Douiri, actively participating in the Forum as a member of its scientific committee, clarified that ESS should not be viewed merely as an alternative, but rather as a robust and independent sector. She highlighted its potential as a fundamental pillar for driving development, enhancing the contributions of economic stakeholders, and significantly boosting their share in the national gross domestic product (GDP).

She further illuminated Morocco’s exemplary journey in this domain, pointing out the Kingdom’s extensive network of cooperatives. These cooperatives are instrumental in creating both employment opportunities and wealth, particularly within the Oriental region. Ms. Douiri stressed the imperative of continuously nurturing and expanding the ESS ecosystem through the unified efforts of all relevant parties.

The Moroccan academic also lauded the comprehensive initiatives undertaken by the Kingdom to bolster this vital sector. These efforts are spearheaded by the department responsible for the Social and Solidarity Economy, working in close collaboration with key economic and financial partners.

Morocco’s delegation at this influential gathering also includes Issam Bousalam and Raouf El Yagoubi, both esteemed teacher-researchers from Mohammed Premier University in Oujda, alongside Ms. Douiri.

The FORA’ESS Dakar’s second edition has convened approximately 250 participants from 33 countries, spanning Africa and beyond. They are united under the overarching theme: “Social and Solidarity Economy: an engine for Africa’s transition, inclusion, and convergence.”

This year’s program features a series of plenary sessions. These sessions are specifically designed to delve into crucial topics such as the African Union’s ten-year strategy for the social and solidarity economy, the pivotal role of local authorities in advancing this sector, and the essential mechanisms required to support its effective implementation.