Morocco’s Government Council has approved nine decree projects renewing satellite communication service licenses for telecom operators, reinforcing satellite connectivity as a pillar of national infrastructure.
The renewals were presented by Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni during the weekly council meeting in Rabat. Government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas confirmed the decisions at a post-session briefing.
The approvals cover a broad mix of satellite services and operators. Maroc Telecom and Wana Corporate received renewed licenses for VSAT satellite communication services. Green Development and Planning Company secured dual renewals for both VSAT services and 3RP frequency-sharing radiocommunication networks. Cires Telecom SA renewed its license for 3RP frequency-sharing technology operations.
Three companies—Orbcomm Maghreb, Thuraya Maghreb SA, and Al Hourria Telecom—obtained renewals for GMPCS public satellite communication networks. Gulfsat Maghreb was approved to continue operating its VSAT public satellite communication network.
All applications received favorable recommendations from the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) in line with current sector regulations.
According to a September 2025 report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, Morocco ranks among Africa’s leading space actors, reflecting steady investment in satellite assets and regulatory frameworks within a rapidly expanding continental space sector.
Morocco has launched five satellites, placing it alongside Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, Algeria, and Angola among Africa’s most active space-faring states. These satellites support Earth observation, communications, and scientific missions developed through sustained international cooperation.
The Mohammed VI-B satellite, launched in 2018, strengthened national capabilities in environmental monitoring, land management, and strategic planning.
Across Africa, governments allocate an estimated $500 million annually to space-related activities. More than 21 African countries now operate space programs, with 18 having launched at least one satellite. The continent has deployed 65 satellites, with projections reaching 120 by 2030.
Institutional coordination has expanded through the African Space Agency in Cairo, while the Africa-EU Space Partnership Programme, launched in 2025 with €100 million in funding, focuses on climate observation, agriculture, and disaster management.
Satellite services now underpin broadcasting, navigation, and rural connectivity across Africa. Morocco’s license renewals align with this continental shift, enabling uninterrupted service provision across multiple satellite platforms and embedding space infrastructure into national economic and security frameworks.
