The LAFBAH AI Framework for a Transformative National AI Strategy: Enhancing Morocco’s Competitiveness and Strategic Intelligence

What are the structural and transformational impacts of a national Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy on the competitiveness and strategic intelligence of countries? This is the central question that we try to answer by focusing on the Moroccan context.Thus, this chapter attempts to explore this question by presenting our conceptual model called the “LAFBAH AI Framework” in an integrated, structured, and innovative approach for the implementation of a holistic, visionary, ethical, and impactful national AI strategy in Morocco.This framework is divided into leadership and vision, agile and accountable governance, future-ready skills and talent development, broad-based collaboration, advanced data and infrastructures, and human-centered approach. It aims to achieve strategic goals called the 5S: Smartness of Strategic State, Sovereignty, Security, Soft Power, and Sustainability. It sheds light on the strategic role of the state in its prospective vision, the competitive and structuring dimensions of public policies, and the design of sectoral strategies boosted by the transformative potential of AI.Our conceptual model is the result of a reflection supported by a mixed methodological triangulation approach. It is based on an in-depth analysis of the best global practices relating to national AI policies and strategies. In addition, a focus was placed on the impact of AI on the competitiveness and strategic intelligence of countries.By combining interviews with confirmed experts in the field of AI and a systemic approach, we diagnosed the Moroccan AI ecosystem in terms of actors and initiatives by addressing the major challenges and opportunities for an impactful, ethical, responsible, safe, and trusted AI.This chapter also presents the key success factors of a visionary, coherent, and impactful national AI strategy while outlining the levers and the main axis of development of the Moroccan AI ecosystem. The final results of this research further advocate for a dedicated AI strategy. They also open up promising directions for thinking and research on the impact of AI on the state’s strategic intelligence and its overall competitiveness.