Morocco’s pioneering approach to the social and solidarity economy (ESS) garnered significant attention on Tuesday in Dakar, during the opening of the second African Forum on Social and Solidarity Economy (FORA’ESS Dakar 2026).

During a specialized workshop focused on “Citizen and Social Transition: Performance and Impact Measurement,” Khadija Douiri, a distinguished researcher and lecturer from the Faculty of Economic, Legal, and Social Sciences at Mohammed Premier University of Oujda, emphasized the critical role of the social and solidarity economy. She highlighted its status as a top development priority for Morocco and numerous other African nations, underscoring its potential to foster sustainable growth across society Africa.

Douiri, participating as a member of the forum’s scientific committee, asserted that ESS is not merely an alternative path but a foundational sector. She argued that it represents a robust framework capable of driving economic development, enhancing the contributions of diverse economic actors, and significantly boosting their share in the national gross domestic product (GDP).

She further elaborated on the Moroccan experience in this vital domain, pointing out the Kingdom’s extensive network of cooperatives. These entities are instrumental in generating employment and wealth, particularly within the Oriental region. Douiri stressed the imperative of continuously nurturing the ESS ecosystem through the collective mobilization of all relevant stakeholders, a key aspect of effective governance Africa.

The Moroccan academic also commended the Kingdom’s dedicated efforts to advance this sector. She specifically acknowledged the initiatives undertaken by the department responsible for the Social and Solidarity Economy, working in close collaboration with various economic and financial partners.

The Moroccan delegation at this influential gathering also included Issam Bousalam and Raouf El Yagoubi, both esteemed researcher-lecturers from Mohammed Premier University of Oujda.

The second edition of FORA’ESS Dakar convened approximately 250 participants from 33 countries across Africa and beyond. The forum’s central theme, “Social and Solidarity Economy: Engine of Transition, Inclusion, and Convergence in Africa,” guided discussions throughout the event.

Key plenary sessions at this edition delved into crucial topics such as the African Union’s ten-year strategy for the social and solidarity economy, the pivotal role of local authorities in fostering the sector’s development, and effective mechanisms for supporting its implementation, reflecting broader trends in African politics and development.