Aziz Akhannouch assumed the office of Prime Minister of Morocco in 2021, leading a coalition government following the electoral success of the National Rally of Independents. His career bridges the sectors of state governance and private enterprise, as he concurrently managed the Akwa Group, a conglomerate with significant operations in the Moroccan oil and gas industry.
Early Development and Business Interests
Born in 1961 in Tafraout, Akhannouch was raised in Casablanca. He completed a management diploma at the University of Sherbrooke in 1986. He inherited the Akwa Group from his father, overseeing its expansion as a major player in the energy sector. Forbes estimated his net worth at $2 billion by 2020, placing him among the wealthiest individuals in Africa.
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Akhannouch served as Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests from 2007 to 2021. During this tenure, he managed the implementation of the Green Morocco Plan, a strategy introduced by King Mohammed VI in April 2008. He also briefly held the position of Minister of Finance on an interim basis in 2013.
Political Leadership and Party Presidency
A member of the National Rally of Independents, Akhannouch became president of the party in 2016, succeeding Salaheddine Mezouar. Following the 2021 general election, his party secured 102 of the 395 available seats. He was appointed Prime Minister by King Mohammed VI, tasked with forming a government alongside the PAM and Istiqlal parties.
Controversies and Regulatory Scrutiny
His tenure has faced criticism regarding fuel pricing and corporate conduct. After the liberalization of fuel prices in 2015 and 2016, accusations surfaced regarding alleged collusion among energy firms to maintain high prices, yielding approximately 17 billion dirhams in profits. Additionally, he faced scrutiny for his interactions with the press and allegations of corruption involving public funds.
Fast facts
- Born: 1961, Tafraout
- Education: University of Sherbrooke
- Prime Minister of Morocco: 2021–present
- Party Presidency: 2016–2026
- Minister of Agriculture: 2007–2021
- Net Worth: $2 billion (2020 estimate)
- Citizenship: Morocco
- Languages: French, Arabic, Berber
Questions readers ask
What was the result of the 2021 general election for Akhannouch's party?
The National Rally of Independents party won 102 of the 395 seats in parliament.
Did Akhannouch continue as president of his political party after 2026?
No, he announced in January 2026 that he would not seek a third term and was succeeded by Mohamed Chaouki.
Achievements
- president (2016–2026)
- Prime Minister of Morocco (from 2021)
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests (2007–2017)
- Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development and Water and Forests (2017–2021)
- Educated at University of Sherbrooke
