## Bridging the Digital Divide: Telecom Expansion Tops National Agenda 

**Morocco Races to Ensure Universal Access by 2030**

Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch has declared that expanding nationwide telecom networks to guarantee access for all citizens is a critical national priority, demanding immediate attention.  Addressing the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) Board of Directors in Rabat on Friday, Akhannouch stressed that while progress has been made, comprehensive coverage, particularly in mountainous regions, remains crucial.

**A Call to Action: Mobilizing Resources for Digital Inclusion**

Akhannouch emphasized the need to mobilize all available resources and focus efforts on achieving this goal, acknowledging the concerns of citizens in several regions lacking access to quality telecommunication services. He assured that the government is fully committed to supporting the ANRT in delivering comprehensive and efficient coverage, thus reducing the digital divide.  He called upon the Agency to identify underserved areas in collaboration with relevant ministries to provide high-quality telecom services as quickly as possible.

**Digital Transformation: A Cornerstone of Morocco's Future**

Akhannouch underscored Morocco's recognition of the vital role digital transformation plays in socio-economic development, highlighting its commitment to a comprehensive and integrated approach aligned with global technological advancements.  He emphasized that the national strategy "Morocco Digital 2030" aims to achieve socio-economic and digital inclusion through strategic initiatives.

**Telecom: A Driver of National Development**

The Head of Government declared Morocco's intention to leverage the telecom sector as a catalyst for national development, contributing to improved economic and spatial development indicators, increased sectoral competitiveness, job creation, and reduced digital and spatial disparities. He expressed pride in the significant improvements in coverage and access rates, particularly within the mobile telephony sector (57 million subscribers) and internet usage (nearly 40 million users), placing Morocco at the top of African rankings according to the International Telecommunication Union's Information and Communication Technology Development Index (IDI).

**Preparing for Major Sporting Events: Telecom Infrastructure Upgrade**

Akhannouch highlighted Morocco's upcoming hosting of major sporting events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 World Cup, emphasizing the need for robust telecom infrastructure to support these endeavors.  He assured that the government, in collaboration with all stakeholders, is actively working to mobilize resources and support ongoing structural projects aimed at expanding broadband internet coverage and fiber optic networks. He revealed plans to connect nearly 5.2 million households by 2030 and deploy 5G technology through a recently launched call for tenders, enabling coverage across several cities.


**Acknowledging the Vital Role of Telecom Operators**

Akhannouch concluded by praising the significant contributions of telecom operators in driving sector development and their relentless efforts towards achieving national connectivity goals. 


## Bridging the Digital Divide: Telecom Expansion Tops National Agenda 

**Morocco Races to Ensure Universal Access by 2030**

Head of Government Aziz Akhannouc

#Telecom network

Nationwide Expansion of Telecom Networks is a Pressing Need, Gov’t Chief Says