Fez-Meknes secures vice-presidency in African-Francophone Business Alliance

Morocco’s economic diplomacy scored a significant victory as Hamza Benabdellah,President of the Fez-Meknes Chamber of Commerce,Industry and Services,was elected Vice-President of the Permanent Conference of African and Francophone Consular Chambers (CPCCAF) during the organization’s 49th General Assembly in Fez.

The statutory meeting,coinciding with the 5th Fez-Meknes Economic Forum,also saw Youssouf Moussa Dawaleh from Djibouti’s Chamber of Commerce assume the CPCCAF presidency,succeeding Cameroon’s Christophe Eken.

This marks the first time the Fez-Meknes CCIS has secured the vice-presidency position,reflecting Morocco’s expanding influence in African and Francophone economic circles. Benabdellah characterized the election as a recognition of the chamber’s international engagement efforts,particularly in strengthening economic diplomacy and building sustainable partnerships.

“This is a testament to the work we’ve done to strengthen economic diplomacy and build lasting international partnerships,” Benabdellah told MAP,emphasizing how the role will enhance Fez’s visibility and influence at continental and Francophone levels.

Newly elected President Dawaleh praised Fez as emblematic for its cultural heritage and regional economic significance,extending gratitude to Morocco for its hospitality and seamless event organization.

Founded in 1973 in Dakar,CPCCAF represents one of the most influential economic networks in the French-speaking world,connecting over eight million businesses across 24 Francophone countries. The organization empowers local businesses,strengthens institutional capacity,and promotes a shared vision of sustainable and inclusive growth.

Morocco’s enhanced role within CPCCAF aligns with the kingdom’s broader strategy of positioning itself as a bridge between Africa,Europe,and the Arab world,leveraging its linguistic and cultural ties to foster economic integration.