The Moroccan capital, Rabat, is set to host the African Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS) 2026 from July 20 to 24, a high-profile event co-organized by the Royal Moroccan Navy, the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVAF), and the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe-Africa (MARFORAF). At its core, the summit emphasizes maritime security innovation, fostering collaboration between African nations and international partners to address shared challenges.
The three-day program is structured around three key pillars: national policy innovation through interministerial cooperation, technological advancements in maritime security, and strengthened regional partnerships. Organizers highlight the summit’s interactive workshops, which simulate real-world scenarios to enhance crisis preparedness and collective response strategies.
Addressing Shared Maritime Threats
Vice Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Moroccan Navy, underscored Morocco’s commitment to regional stability during a press briefing. “This summit reflects our unwavering dedication to African cooperation, peace, and maritime security,” he stated. “The discussions will cover emerging technologies, illegal fishing, human trafficking, piracy, and environmental threats—all of which demand coordinated action.”
Vice Admiral Tahin added that maritime security is a strategic priority requiring sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and cross-border partnerships. The AMFS 2026 agenda explicitly targets issues like unregulated fishing, arms smuggling, and terrorism, which transcend national borders and threaten regional economies.
“By uniting African maritime forces with global partners, this summit will foster best practices, strengthen security frameworks, and pave the way for a safer, more prosperous maritime future in Africa.”
Rear Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of NAVAF, emphasized the summit’s broader impact on global trade, food security, and regional stability. “Maritime security affects every aspect of life—from commerce to community livelihoods,” he noted. “No single nation can tackle these challenges alone. The AMFS brings together African leaders, the U.S., and international allies to combat piracy, illegal fishing, and transnational crime through shared expertise and resources.”
Admiral Wikoff also stressed the need for sustainable solutions, calling for professional development and cross-border collaboration to secure Africa’s maritime domains. “Our goal is to build resilient partnerships that can respond to crises, protect trade routes, and defend against threats that ignore national boundaries.”
Strengthening the Morocco-U.S. Maritime Alliance
The AMFS 2026 takes place amid a deepening Morocco-U.S. defense partnership, reflected in bilateral initiatives like the Atlantic Initiative and joint military exercises. Morocco’s growing defense industry, particularly in naval and maritime security, has become a focal point of discussions with U.S. officials.
Ben Ziff, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires in Rabat, highlighted the strategic importance of Morocco’s defense sector. “Our collaboration spans co-production, job creation, and industrial ecosystem development,” he said. “Morocco’s industrial base positions it as a key partner in enhancing collective security through shared capabilities.”
“We continuously explore new avenues to meet mutual security needs. Morocco’s robust industry and shared vision make it an ideal ally in strengthening security for both our nations.”
The summit also features the Senior Enlisted Leaders Conference (SEL), providing a platform for African maritime officials to exchange innovative security solutions and refine collective strategies.
