Mohamed Sefiani is Mayor of Chefchaouen, Morocco, and one of the most respected voices in North Africa on sustainable local governance, environmental stewardship, and community-centred urban development. With a background in public administration and territorial development, he has dedicated his career to strengthening municipal institutions and promoting participatory decision-making processes.
Under his leadership, Chefchaouen has evolved into an international reference point for ecological transition in heritage and mountain cities. His approach combines long-term strategic planning, environmental innovation, and social inclusion, placing local communities at the centre of urban transformation.
During his mandate, he has implemented an integrated urban strategy focused on green infrastructure, circular waste management, water resource protection, sustainable mobility, and the development of a responsible local economy. The city is now recognised for its climate adaptation policies and its ability to balance heritage conservation with environmental innovation.
Chefchaouen has gained international recognition for pioneering initiatives in biodiversity protection, eco-tourism, and youth engagement in sustainability, strengthening social cohesion while preserving natural and cultural heritage.
Sefiani actively collaborates with international city networks across Africa, the Mediterranean, and Europe, contributing local experience to global sustainability agendas.