Exploring Othman Benjelloun – One of Morocco’s Richest Businessman and Salwa Idrissi Akhannouch – Morocco’s Biggest Businesswoman

Paul | December 3, 2023 | Finance, Morocco | No Comments

Othman Benjelloun ( Arabic: عثمان بن جلون; born 1931) is a Moroccan banker billionaire businessman.

He is known for co-founding of BMCE Bank and Bank of Africa, and serves as its chairman, chief executive officer. In February 2022, his net worth was estimated by Forbes at US$1.6 billion.

Othman Benjelloun is a prominent Moroccan businessman and the chairman and CEO of BMCE Bank (Moroccan Bank for External Trade). He has held this position since the privatization of the bank in June 1995. In addition to his role at BMCE Bank, Benjelloun is also the president of FINANCE.COM Holding, which oversees various divisions including the Banking and Related-Professions Division (with BMCE Bank as the key component), the Insurance Division (including RMA and Al Wataniya), the Industrial Division, and the Telecommunications, Media, and IT Division.

Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Othman Benjelloun plays a significant role in the financial sector. He heads the Professional Association of Moroccan Banks, demonstrating his leadership and influence in the banking industry in Morocco.

In the international arena, Benjelloun is a member of the International Councillors at the Center for Strategic International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, D.C. This center focuses on international geopolitics, and his participation in this council, led by Dr. Henry Kissinger, reflects his engagement in global affairs.

Othman Benjelloun has also been involved in the field of education. He served as Chancellor of Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane from 1998 to January 2004. This appointment was made by the late King Hassan II.

In terms of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Benjelloun has played a role in promoting social and environmental causes. He established the BMCE Bank Foundation in 1995, focusing on two main priorities: the promotion of education in rural areas through the Medersat.com Program and environmental protection.

For his contributions and achievements, Othman Benjelloun has received various honors and awards, including the title Officier de l’Ordre de Trône du Royaume du Maroc, Commander of the Swedish Royal Order of the Polar Star, and the Medal of Commander of the National Order of the Lion of the Senegalese Republic. These awards recognize his significant contributions to the economic, social, and cultural development of Morocco and beyond.

Salwa Idrissi Akhannouch – Morocco’s Biggest Businesswoman

Salwa Idrissi Akhannouch is known as a prominent businesswoman and entrepreneur in Morocco. She is the founder and president of Aksal Holding, a major company involved in various sectors such as retail, cosmetics, luxury goods, and malls. Currently, she holds the title of First Lady of Morocco.

The Morocco Mall, inaugurated in 2011 opened by the Moroccan Businesswoman, is one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in Africa. It covers an expansive area of 10 hectares and is located in Casablanca, Morocco.

The mall has become a prominent landmark and a major contributor to the retail sector in Morocco. Additionally, it has played a role in boosting tourism revenues by attracting both local and international visitors.

It’s worth noting that developments and projects may progress or change over time, so it’s advisable to check more recent sources for any updates on Salwa Idrissi Akhannouch and her business ventures, including the Morocco Mall.

Salwa Akhannouch is the second highest ranking woman after Princess Lalla Salma, the Princess Consort. She’s married to Aziz Akhannouch, who took office as Prime Minister of Morocco on 7 October 2021. She’s therefore the Country’s First Lady. They have three children.