The fourth annual Africa Maritime Forces Summit (AMFS 2026) opened Monday in Rabat with the participation of senior maritime leaders from more than 40 African nations and 20 international partner states to tackle rising threats in Africa’s vital waterways.
AMFS is organized by the Royal Navy in partnership with U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Europe-Africa, honouring 250 years of partnership between the U.S. and Morocco.
The five-day event brings together civil & military officials from Morocco, USA, and African countries as well as representatives from of Saudi Arabia, Brazil, South Korea, UAE, Spain, France, Italy, Jordan, Malta, Norway, Oman, the Netherlands, Portugal, United Kingdom, Singapore and Türkiye.
By focusing on maritime safety, regional cooperation, technological innovation and joint security framework, the summit aims to turn strategic dialogue into real-world action, reinforcing an enduring commitment to African-led solutions for a stable and prosperous maritime environment.
The opening ceremony was co-chaired by Rear Admiral Mohamed Tahin, Inspector of the Royal Navy, Colonel-Maj. Abdellah Athmani, Head of 2nd Bureau of the FAR General Staff, Mr. Ben Ziff, Chargé d’Affaires of U.S. Embassy in Rabat, Admiral George Wikoff, commander of U.S. Naval Forces Africa and Maj. General Shipley, Commander of US Marine Corps Forces, Europe & Africa.
The Summit program features presentations on the Royal Atlantic Initiative and cooperation in hydrography, oceanography & cartography, regional coordination in maritime Search & Rescue operations as well as in maritime surveillance, which includes the detection and tracking of vessels to ensure security, safety, and environmental protection.
