Maroc Telecom and Inwi announced a major partnership on Thursday to accelerate the deployment of fibre optics and 5G technology across Morocco.
This alliance marks a new era of cooperation between the two telecom giants, aligning with Morocco’s digital transformation goals.
Joint ventures for enhanced infrastructure
The partnership involves creating two joint ventures: FiberCo and TowerCo. Maroc Telecom and Inwi will own both companies equally, with Maroc Telecom holding a 50 percent stake.
FiberCo is tasked with expanding fibre optic networks to reach 1 million connections within two years and 3 million connections within five years, providing ultra-high-speed internet access to subscribers across the Kingdom.
TowerCo will focus on accelerating the deployment of the 5G network by constructing new towers and renovating existing ones, aiming to establish 2,000 towers within three years and 6,000 towers over a decade.
As Jassem Alzaabi, Chairman of e& (formerly Etisalat Group), noted, “This strategic collaboration between Maroc Telecom and Inwi, along with joint investments in fibre and 5G infrastructure, marks a step toward greater market stability and strengthens Morocco’s position as an attractive destination for investment”.
Read also: Ethio Telecom and DStv launch affordable entertainment packages with data bundles
Investment and regulatory approval
The project’s first phase is valued at 4.4 billion MAD (approximately $460 million) over three years, pending approval from Morocco’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT).
This investment reflects both operators’ financial commitment to ensuring the success of this ambitious endeavour. The partnership also resolves an ongoing legal dispute between the companies, with Maroc Telecom agreeing to pay Inwi a reduced compensation of 4.38 billion MAD, down from the initial order of 6.38 billion MAD.
The agreement aligns with Morocco’s national ambitions for ultra-high-speed connectivity and supports the country’s strategic projects. It is designed to enhance mobile coverage and promote access to high-speed internet for all Moroccan citizens, including those in underserved areas. The shared passive infrastructures will be accessible to any licensed telecom operator, helping avoid duplicate investments and offering a wider range of services at competitive prices.