High-speed satellite internet could soon be a reality in Morocco’s southern provinces. Discussions are underway between Moroccan authorities and Starlink, the satellite broadband company founded by Elon Musk, to bring internet coverage to the Sahara. This initiative has the potential to strengthen connectivity in the region and position Morocco as a key digital hub in sub-Saharan Africa.
Negotiations began in the summer of 2024 with an initial exchange between Elon Musk and Moroccan officials. Talks continued in November at the Qatar-Africa Business Forum in Marrakech, where Starlink’s Vice President, Lauren Dreyer, took charge of discussions. Since then, the company’s Middle East and North Africa division has been overseeing the project.
Bringing Starlink’s services to Morocco requires multiple regulatory approvals. The country’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency, led by Mohammed Hassi-Rahou, is responsible for assessing the technical aspects of the project. Meanwhile, the General Directorate of Information System Security, headed by General El Mostafa Rabii, is reviewing potential security concerns associated with the deployment.
The prospect of Starlink entering the Moroccan market has raised concerns among local telecom providers, who fear increased competition. Direct satellite internet access, which could be both more affordable and independent of existing infrastructure, has the potential to disrupt the current market dynamics.
Beyond boosting connectivity, this project could help bridge the digital divide by expanding access to education, strengthening security infrastructure, and stimulating local economic growth. It aligns with Morocco’s broader strategy to accelerate digital transformation in its southern provinces.
If approved, the partnership with Starlink would mark a significant milestone in the Sahara’s digital development. The project’s future now depends on regulatory approvals and necessary adjustments to ensure compliance with national policies.
