In an exclusive interview with Le Matin, Mostafa Terrab, CEO of OCP Group, discusses the company’s strategic mission, its commitment to Africa, investments in research and education, and OCP’s role in Morocco’s economic and social development. In a narrative that highlights industrial vision, environmental responsibility, and human capital, Mr. Terrab outlines the pillars of success for the global phosphate giant.
A Mission for Food Security and Moroccan Phosphate
“Our mission can be summed up as ‘Bring phosphorus to life’,” explains Mostafa Terrab. It involves ensuring access to phosphorus, a vital element for global food security, while fully enhancing Moroccan phosphate. “This is a commitment both locally and internationally, aimed at maximizing the value of this resource for farmers and communities,” he clarifies.
Africa at the Heart of Strategy
For OCP, Africa is not an external market, but “our continent, our home.” The group operates on the continent just as it does in Morocco, guided by the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI: an African perspective on Africa. “Our mission is to contribute to the agricultural catch-up of the continent and its food security, as Africa still consumes well below its needs,” adds Mr. Terrab.
Investing in Knowledge and Innovation
To build a sustainable and competitive industry, OCP focuses on education and research. Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) plays a dual role: it supports the group’s R&D and trains the talent needed for the industry. More than half of its programs are directly related to OCP’s industrial, agricultural, and environmental needs, ranging from new fertilizer formulations to water treatment technologies and low-carbon industrial processes.
Beyond its internal needs, the university welcomes Moroccan and African students, often on scholarships, to become a talent catalyst for the entire continent. “Investing in education and research is preparing the future of OCP, Morocco, and Africa,” emphasizes the CEO.
Strong and Patriotic Financial Support
As part of its expansion into higher value-added products, OCP has raised funds both in international markets and through the Moroccan banking system. “Some Moroccan banks have even subscribed to our international issues, a gesture of trust and economic patriotism,” highlights Mr. Terrab. He notes that this strategy has enabled the mobilization of reliable financing while preserving the non-privatizable character of the group.
The Niya: Governance Philosophy
Mostafa Terrab also revisits the concept of “Niya,” which he defines as the belief that sincerity of intent is a strength and not naivety. This approach guides OCP’s governance and its relations with employees, suppliers, and partners. It supports the creation of an ecosystem capable of innovating and progressing together.
Human Capital, the Heart of Success
Mr. Terrab shares a notable experience: “A bulldozer operator once told me that OCP’s true resource is our women and men.” This philosophy has guided the rejuvenation of the company: between 5,000 and 6,000 young talents have been recruited, lowering the average age to 35 and infusing new energy into OCP. UM6P supports these talents over the long term, solidifying human capital as a central driver of the group’s performance.
Social and Sports Commitment
OCP is also involved in sports, through the EVO Sport structure of UM6P, in coordination with the Royal Moroccan Football Federation. The aim is to professionalize football and promote sports as a lever for human and socio-economic development.
A Vision for 2050
By 2050, OCP aims to strengthen its global position and enhance Moroccan phosphate. This ambition is accompanied by a strategic diversification into education, water, energy, and other phosphate derivatives, ensuring autonomy, resilience, and continuity in the group’s mission.
A Clear Message
For Mostafa Terrab, everything begins with human capital: “The greatest wealth of Morocco is its women and men. Everything starts there and everything returns to it.”