Moroccan company Panafsat has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Thales Alenia Space to develop a satellite communications system that will deliver very-high-throughput services (VHTS) to 26 African countries, primarily in French-speaking regions. This initiative aims to serve a combined population of around 550 million people across an area of 12 million square kilometers.
The MoU was signed during the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco, with the participation of Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Moroccan Minister of the Economy and Finance, and Antoine Armand, French Minister of the Economy, Finance, and Industry.
Under the agreement, Thales Alenia Space will design a high-performance, flexible satellite capable of providing high-speed internet to enhance Africa’s digital landscape. This satellite will enable connectivity for high-value services, benefiting governments, businesses, and individuals while helping to bridge the digital divide in rural and isolated communities.
Ahmed Toumi, Chairman and CEO of Panafsat, remarked, “This project represents a crucial step in the digital transformation process and the development of a digital economy in Morocco and throughout Africa. It will change the lives of millions who seek internet access and essential services. We are excited to collaborate with a partner like Thales Alenia Space on this significant project, which will provide substantial benefits across the continent.”
Hervé Derrey, CEO of Thales Alenia Space, expressed, “It is an honor for Thales Alenia Space to be selected by Panafsat to deliver this new geostationary telecommunications satellite. The project will significantly contribute to closing the digital divide in rural areas while fostering economic growth and strengthening digital sovereignty across Africa. We are privileged to embark on this long-term partnership with Africa’s leading private operator to enhance its capabilities and develop space services for the continent’s benefit.”
This MoU is part of a broader roadmap established by France and Morocco, focusing on digitalization initiatives such as Digital Economy for Africa (DE4A) and Digital Morocco 2030, as well as the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2030 to be hosted in Morocco.
