Morocco elected AFCONE commissioner in landmark nuclear energy diplomacy
Diplomacy
Morocco elected AFCONE commissioner in landmark nuclear energy diplomacy
The role of an AFCONE commissioner—serving as an African Union body responsible for overseeing the Pelindaba Treaty to maintain a nuclear-weapon-free Africa—demands exceptional strategic, technical, and diplomatic expertise.
June 26, 2026
The Kingdom of Morocco has been unanimously elected as Commissioner of the African Commission on Nuclear Energy (AFCONE) for a three-year term.
The historic election took place during the 7th Conference of States Parties to the Pelindaba Treaty, held at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa. The Moroccan delegation, led by Ambassador Mohamed Arrouchi—Morocco’s Permanent Representative to the African Union and the Economic Commission for Africa—played a pivotal role in securing this mandate.
This appointment underscores the deep trust placed in Morocco’s diplomatic and technical capabilities, aligning with the nation’s leadership vision on critical issues of peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent. The Kingdom has emerged as a regional leader in harnessing peaceful nuclear technology to address pressing socio-economic challenges, particularly in healthcare, agriculture, and water resource management amid growing climate pressures.
The AFCONE commissioner’s responsibilities are multifaceted, encompassing strategic oversight, technical implementation, and diplomatic engagement to ensure strict adherence to the Pelindaba Treaty and the promotion of nuclear non-proliferation across Africa.
The Moroccan delegation included key representatives from the National Center for Nuclear Energy, Sciences, and Techniques (CNESTEN) and the Moroccan Agency for Nuclear and Radiological Safety and Security (AMSSNuR), reflecting the nation’s comprehensive approach to nuclear governance.
The conference convened in a hybrid format, bringing together African nations committed to advancing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes while reinforcing non-proliferation standards. Morocco’s election to this prestigious position highlights its growing influence in shaping Africa’s nuclear energy framework and its dedication to fostering regional stability through innovative solutions.