France and Morocco Partner to Develop Pan-African Satellite Communication System
Moroccan company Panafsat and Thales Alenia Space (France) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop a Moroccan satellite communications system. This system will provide very high-throughput internet services (VHTS) to 26 African countries, including 23 French-speaking nations, covering a population of 550 million across 12 million square kilometres. The project aims to bridge Africa’s digital divide, offering enhanced connectivity in rural areas and supporting digital economic growth. This partnership further aligns with digitalisation goals under Digital Economy for Africa (DE4A) and Digital Morocco 2030. This is also a strategic move ahead of Morocco’s hosting part of the FIFA World Cup in 2030.
“It is a privilege for Thales Alenia Space to be chosen by Panafsat to deliver this new geostationary telecommunications satellite.” Thales Alenia Space CEO Hervé Derrey.
The two companies signed the MoU on October 29 during French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Morocco. The signing took place in the presence of Morocco’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Nadia Fettah Alaoui, and France’s Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industry, Antoine Armand. Once in orbit, the satellite will deliver high-speed internet to drive digital transformation across Africa. Additionally, this connectivity will enable high-value services, benefiting governments, businesses, and individuals by enhancing access to essential digital resources and accelerating economic growth.
“We are delighted to be able to draw on the outstanding expertise and capabilities of a partner like Thales Alenia Space. We look forward to working together on this major project, which will bring significant benefits across the continent,” stated Panafsat’s Chairman and CEO, Ahmed Toumi.
This comes after Morocco recently signed a deal with Israel Aerospace Industries to acquire two Earth Observation satellites to enhance its intelligence and surveillance capabilities. This underscores Morocco’s interest in utilising space and satellite technologies for the country’s socio-economic advancement.