Morocco’s King Mohammed VI has named Aziz Akhannouch as the country’s next Prime Minister. A former startup founder, Akhannouch is also the Liberal-National Rally of Independents’ leader. Morocco’s state-run broadcaster broadcasted the news of the new Prime Minister’s appointment.
According to an official statement from Morocco’s royal palace, the King has tasked Akhannouch with forming a new government with a mandate.
In the Parliamentary elections on September 8, 2021, Aziz Akhannouch’s National Rally of Independents emerged as the largest party. Morocco had elections, with nearly 50% of the population voting.
Owner Of A Loyalty And Payments Startup Kenz’up
With an estimated fortune of over $2 billion, Akhannouch is one of Morocco’s wealthiest persons. Since 2016, Akhannouch has served as the leader of the National Rally of Independents (RNI), a political group with close ties to the royal family.
The new Prime Minister is the CEO of the Akwa Group. It is a Moroccan conglomerate that mostly operates in the gas and oil industries.
Founded in 2020, Kenz’up, which is part of the Akwa Group, is financially supported by the group while operating independently.
Based in Casablanca Morocco, Kenz’up is a software company that specializes in loyalty and payment solutions. The startup aims to become Moroccans’ preferred way of purchase and payment.
Since 2007, Akhannouch has also served as Minister of Agriculture. Following the announcement of the election results, Akhannouch stated that he will carry out his majesty’s vision.
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The appointment of Akhannouch heralds a new era in the North African country’s entrepreneurial scene. People in positions of power with an entrepreneurial mindset will, hopefully, change the game.
Charles Rapulu Udoh
Charles Rapulu Udoh is a Lagos-based lawyer who has advised startups across Africa on issues such as startup funding (Venture Capital, Debt financing, private equity, angel investing etc), taxation, strategies, etc. He also has special focus on the protection of business or brands’ intellectual property rights ( such as trademark, patent or design) across Africa and other foreign jurisdictions.
He is well versed on issues of ESG (sustainability), media and entertainment law, corporate finance and governance.
He is also an award-winning writer
Morocco’s startup prime minister Morocco’s startup prime minister