SABA Welcomes Ambassador of Morocco to Scotland

The Scottish Africa Business Association was proud to be at the heart of the recent visit by His Excellency the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco Hakim Hajoui — curating a dynamic and impactful business programme across Scotland.

Over three days, we brought together businesses, government representatives, educational institutions and strategic partners to explore shared priorities in renewable energy, agritech, education & skills training and international collaboration.

From roundtables and campus tours to technical briefings and innovation showcases, this visit was a fantastic opportunity for our members and wider network to engage directly, build relationships and explore real-world opportunities for collaboration with Morocco.

The business programme began on Monday with our member, City of Glasgow College, where the Ambassador experienced the College’s cutting-edge maritime training facilities and even took the helm in one of their state-of-the-art simulators.

We also had the pleasure of engaging with academic leaders at the University of Glasgow, where discussions focused on research, innovation and expanding opportunities for Moroccan and Scottish institutions to collaborate in areas such as engineering, energy, health and sustainability.

Day twofocused on one of the most pressing global priorities: renewable energy and the skills needed to support a just and inclusive energy transition. We were privileged to hear a powerful keynote address from the Ambassador, who outlined Morocco’s ambitious plans for expanding its renewable energy sector — including solar, onshore wind, hydrogen and interconnectivity projects — and the country's clear commitment to building a skilled, future-ready workforce to deliver on that vision.

The roundtable brought together representatives from Scottish colleges, universities and industry, for a dynamic and solutions-focused discussion. Topics ranged from Morocco’s solar-powered landscape is a stunning testament to its commitment to clean energy and innovation — anchored by the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex in the Drâa‑Tafilalet region through to the country's onshore wind capacity making it one of the largest onshore wind producer in Africa.

Morocco is rapidly becoming a key player in energy security discussions for the UK, especially through bold renewable export projects and long-term infrastructure strategies and His Excellency was keen to discuss the role of Scottish partnerships in these and the country's workforce development.

The afternoon included a high-level roundtable focused on the role of hydrogen in the global energy transition, supported by Scottish Development International — and the opportunities it presents for collaboration between Morocco and Scotland.

We heard insightful presentations from Castletown Law, Scottish Development International and Hydrogen Scotland, all of whom highlighted Scotland’s capabilities in hydrogen production, legal and regulatory frameworks and export potential.

His Excellency spoke about Morocco’s vision to become a global hydrogen leader, backed by its ambitious national strategy, vast renewable resources and investor-friendly climate.

The final day began at the renowned James Hutton Institute, where we explored cutting-edge research in agriculture, food security and climate resilience. From potatoes to soft fruits, we heard about the Institute’s world-leading work in crop science, soil health and sustainable farming, with a strong emphasis on translating research into commercial outcomes and global benefits. The discussion touched on exciting possibilities for Morocco–Scotland partnerships in areas such as water efficiency, agronomic innovation and knowledge exchange.

We were also delighted to visit Intelligent Growth Solutions - pioneers in vertical farming technology. Touring their fully automated growth towers, we saw the future of urban and desert agriculture in action — and even sampled some lemon basil and fresh lettuce, while viewing coffee plants in their early growth stages.

To close the programme, we were warmly welcomed by Forth Valley College in Falkirk — a shining example of Scotland’s commitment to vocational excellence and future-ready skills. His Excellency toured the impressive campus and learned about the College’s hands-on approach to apprenticeships, technical training and workforce development across sectors such as engineering, renewables, construction and life sciences.

As this visit series concludes, it’s clear that the connections made this week have laid the groundwork for meaningful cooperation between Scotland and Morocco — in education, energy, agritech and beyond.

View the photos here.