Morocco and France launch satellite partnership for Pan-African connectivity

The collaboration aims to bridge the digital divide and bolster Morocco’s digital economy and Africa’s technological resilience.

Flags of Morocco and France

Morocco’s Panafsat and Thales Alenia Space have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to build a high-capacity satellite telecommunications system to advance digital connectivity across 26 African countries, including 23 French-speaking nations. Signed during French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco, the agreement underscores the deepening partnership between France and Morocco.

Once in orbit, the satellite will provide very high-throughput services (VHTS) to around 550 million people across a vast area of 12 million square kilometres, addressing connectivity needs in underserved and remote regions. This project supports the digital transformation goals in programs like Digital Economy for Africa (DE4A) and Digital Morocco 2030, fostering economic growth and expanding access to essential services for governments, businesses, and communities across Africa.

Beyond meeting immediate connectivity needs, this initiative also positions Morocco as a digital leader in Africa as it prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Morocco is demonstrating a commitment to modernisation and readiness for future growth by enhancing its technological infrastructure and bridging the digital divide. The collaboration with Thales Alenia Space empowers Morocco’s digital economy and contributes to broader efforts to create an interconnected and technologically resilient continent.