Quick Summary
Kano State has entered a strategic partnership with Moroccan firms to attract over $10 billion in investments across renewable energy, solid minerals, and agriculture. The deal includes plans for solar energy generation, fertilizer plants, and support for smallholder farmers, following a high-level investment mission led by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Kano Partners with Moroccan Firms to Secure $10 Billion Investment in Energy and Minerals
The Kano State Government has announced a strategic partnership with top Moroccan companies, aiming to attract over $10 billion in investments over the next five years. The deal focuses on renewable energy and solid minerals development, marking a major step toward economic growth and sustainability for the state.
Investment MoUs in the Works
According to a statement by Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, spokesperson for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the state is set to sign several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Kingdom of Morocco.
The agreements will center on key sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, and commerce as part of efforts to strengthen Kano’s economy.
High-Level Investment Mission to Morocco
The development follows a recent investment mission to Morocco, led by Governor Yusuf. During the trip, the state delegation met with major Moroccan institutions including:
- The Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development
- The Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN)
- The Moroccan Agency for Africa (OCP Africa)
- The Casablanca Chamber of Commerce
These meetings explored opportunities for investment collaboration and technology transfer, particularly in clean energy and industrial sectors.
Focus on Technology and Industrial Growth
Dawakin-Tofa said the proposed agreements would cover areas such as:
- Investor identification
- Financing models
- Advanced energy storage and distribution technologies
The Casablanca Chamber of Commerce expressed strong interest in working with Kano on both renewable energy and solid minerals development.
Agricultural Innovation with OCP Africa
The delegation also met with OCP Africa, one of the world’s largest fertilizer producers. OCP proposed projects that include:
- Fertilizer blending plants
- Modern supply chain systems
- Support for smallholder farmers using smart farming tools
These initiatives are expected to boost agricultural productivity and create jobs in Kano.
MASEN to Support Solar Energy Goals
One of the key outcomes of the mission was a proposed partnership with MASEN, a leader in large-scale solar power. MASEN manages the 500-megawatt solar plant in Ouarzazate, Morocco.
The agency has pledged to support Kano’s Light-Up Kano Initiative, which aims to generate 2,000 megawatts of solar power within five years. This includes providing technical expertise and sharing best practices in solar development.
