Morocco has achieved a monumental milestone in bridging the digital divide. According to the Ministry of Digital Transition and Administrative Reform, over 10,640 rural areas have gained access to 2G, 3G, and 4G telecom services between 2018 and 2024. This success marks the completion of the first phase of the National High-Speed Broadband Plan (PNHD), which boasts an impressive 99% coverage rate across rural regions.
While most rural zones have been connected through terrestrial networks, certain isolated areas remain unreachable due to challenging geography. To address this, Morocco adopted an innovative solution: satellite technology. Through the VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) initiative, even the most remote communities now have access to telecommunications, marking a groundbreaking step forward for these underserved areas.
Building on this success, Morocco has unveiled its “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy, signaling a new phase in the country’s digital transformation. The second phase of the PNHD, already underway, aims to connect 1,800 additional rural areas by 2026. Supported by the Universal Telecommunications Service Fund, this initiative is set to be completed within just 15 months of its launch.
The identification of areas for expansion was meticulously carried out in collaboration with the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) and local authorities, ensuring the specific needs of each region are met.
For families in regions where terrestrial infrastructure is still unavailable, the government has introduced financial aid. Households subscribing to VSAT services through accredited providers can receive up to 2,500 dirhams per subscription. However, this program is capped at 400 beneficiaries per year, focusing on encouraging satellite internet adoption in the most remote areas.
In parallel with its satellite initiatives, Morocco is investing heavily in fiber optic infrastructure, positioning it as the backbone of its telecommunications network. This approach aligns with the nation’s broader vision of leveraging digital technology as a driver of inclusive development, particularly in marginalized rural areas.
With near-universal telecom coverage and concrete plans for the years ahead, Morocco is establishing itself as a global leader in rural digitization. The second phase of the PNHD, coupled with the “Digital Morocco 2030” strategy, promises a future where every citizen—urban or rural—can enjoy the benefits of a connected world.
