Morocco is taking part in UNESCO Africa Week 2026, which officially opened in Paris with a strong focus on water security, youth engagement, culture, and sustainable development across the African continent. The event runs until May 22 and gathers representatives, experts, and cultural actors from across Africa.
According to Morocco’s Ambassador and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Samir Addahre, this year’s edition places particular emphasis on innovation and the active participation of African youth through dedicated discussion spaces, exhibitions, panels, and an African Book Fair.
Morocco is participating through a “youth hub” initiative designed to encourage exchanges of ideas and collaboration among young Africans on key continental challenges. Organizers say the initiative aims to amplify youth perspectives on issues linked to development, education, and sustainability.
UNESCO Deputy Director-General Åsa Charlotte Regnér described Africa Week as a major platform for culture, knowledge, and dialogue, stressing that access to clean water and sanitation has become an increasingly urgent issue due to climate pressures, urban growth, and demographic expansion across Africa.
The organizers also highlighted the strategic importance of preserving African knowledge, culture, and youth potential while strengthening cooperation around sustainable development goals. Pierre Faye said this year’s theme reflects the continent’s growing ambitions and the need to secure long-term access to safe water systems and sanitation infrastructure.
UNESCO Africa Week has become one of the institution’s key annual events dedicated to showcasing African innovation, creativity, and policy discussions while promoting dialogue around the continent’s future social and environmental challenges.
