Morocco to roll out 5G, expand telecom coverage with investments reaching MAD80 billion

Moroccan Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch chaired a board meeting Friday of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT), where officials discussed the current state of the telecom sector and reviewed strategic plans for the coming years.

At the meeting, Akhannouch reaffirmed the country’s commitment to a comprehensive digital transformation under the national strategy “Digital Morocco 2030.” He emphasized that the telecommunications sector is a pillar of national development, playing a critical role in reducing digital and regional disparities.

“The full expansion of telecom networks across the kingdom, especially in mountainous and remote regions, can no longer be delayed,” Akhannouch said. He urged the agency to identify underserved areas and coordinate with both public and private sectors to deliver quality and reliable communication services to all citizens.

Key decisions from the meeting included launching a national survey to map underserved regions, with the goal of delivering full telecom coverage under a structured program. The agency will also begin the rollout of 5G technology to boost network performance and support Morocco’s economic and social development.

ANRT Director General Az El Arab Hassibi presented an overview of the sector’s growth. He reported that Morocco now has 57 million mobile subscribers and nearly 40 million internet users, reaching approximately 90% internet penetration. By comparison, average internet access across Africa stands at just 37%.

According to the International Telecommunication Union’s 2025 rankings, Morocco now leads the continent in ICT development, as measured by the ICT Development Index (IDI).

To sustain this momentum, the agency plans to update the National Frequency Plan (PNF) to keep pace with technological advances and socio-economic growth. It will also continue expanding high-speed internet access and fiber optic networks nationwide.

The 5G rollout, with a total investment of 80 billion dirhams (about $8 billion), is expected to begin by the end of 2025 in several cities. The government aims to extend 5G coverage to 85% of the population by 2030.