The Developmental Transformation of the Southern Provinces and Its Impact on Africa

Abstract

The research examines the role of Morocco’s southern provinces in strengthening Moroccan-African relations within the framework of the new policy adopted after the 2011 Constitution, which focuses on enhancing South-South cooperation with African countries. Under the leadership of King Mohammed VI, Morocco has expanded its economic, political, and diplomatic presence in Africa through investments, development partnerships, and its return to the African Union.

The study also highlights the connection between the Sahara issue and Morocco’s relations with African countries, as Morocco has sought to strengthen African support for the autonomy initiative through economic cooperation and the opening of consulates in the southern provinces.

In addition, the research emphasizes the historical importance of the Moroccan Sahara as a commercial and cultural link between Morocco and Sub-Saharan Africa through trans-Saharan trade routes. Within this context, Morocco launched the new development model for the southern provinces through major projects such as the Dakhla Atlantic Port and the Tiznit-Dakhla highway, with the aim of transforming the region into an economic and developmental gateway to Africa.

The study concludes that the development of the southern provinces has become a strategic tool for strengthening Morocco’s presence in Africa and promoting cooperation and shared development across the continent.