Doha – Morocco is set to embark on a transformative technological advancement with the rollout of 5G mobile technology scheduled for November, just before the start of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT), the country aims to provide 5G access to 25% of its population by the end of 2025, expanding to 70% by 2030.
The deployment will initially focus on major urban centers and key economic zones, with industrial areas, technology parks, and innovation hubs receiving priority access.
Universities, research centers, and industries such as automotive and aeronautics will also be among the first to benefit from this next-generation connectivity.
“The new regulatory standards currently being finalized by ANRT will ensure not only extensive coverage but also quality service, essential to meet user expectations,” said an agency spokesperson quoted in the press.
This ambitious project is partially built on an unprecedented partnership between Maroc Telecom and Inwi, which formalized the creation of two joint ventures in March.
The first, named FiberCo, plans to install one million fiber optic connections in the next two years and three million within five years. The second, TowerCo, will be responsible for building 2,000 telecommunications towers by 2028 and 6,000 by 2033.
This investment program, estimated at MAD 4.4 billion ($440 million), aims to optimize costs and accelerate national coverage through shared infrastructure. Meanwhile, Orange Morocco is considering a distinct strategy, balancing between autonomy and partnerships for infrastructure sharing.
The agreement between Maroc Telecom and Inwi marks a decisive shift in their relationship. The two companies had been at odds for years over infrastructure sharing issues, resulting in a legal battle where Maroc Telecom was ordered to pay MAD 6.38 billion ($638 million) in compensation to Inwi.
Under the new agreement, ongoing appeals will be abandoned and the compensation reduced to MAD 4.38 billion ($438 million).
What will Morocco gain from deploying 5G?
In addition to mobile internet speeds, 5G technology is expected to transform multiple sectors in Morocco. In transportation, it will enable optimized traffic management.
Smart homes will see remarkable expansion, while factories and industrial facilities will experience increased efficiency. Agriculture, public services, and digital administrative procedures will also benefit from these advancements.
International studies have shown that a 10% increase in mobile broadband penetration can lead to GDP growth of up to 2.5%, which further underlines the economic potential of this technological leap for Morocco.
The strategic timing of the 5G rollout is linked to major sporting events. Beyond the AFCON in 2025, Morocco is preparing its digital infrastructure for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
By that time, Morocco aims to achieve full nationwide coverage, positioning itself as a regional leader in digital innovation on the global stage.
According to ANRT data, Morocco had 37.44 million mobile internet users as of December 31, 2024. The introduction of 5G represents a crucial step in the country’s “Digital Morocco 2030” national strategy, which promotes “infrastructure sharing and co-investment” as key principles for advancing the country’s digital transformation.
Read also: Maroc Telecom Doubles Internet Speed for Fiber Customers at No Extra Cost
