Moroccan company Panafsat and Thales Alenia Space have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop a satellite communications system that will provide very-high-throughput services (VHTS) to 26 African countries, including 23 in French-speaking Africa. The system will cover a population of approximately 550 million people across 12 million square kilometers.
The MoU was signed during the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to Morocco, with key figures such as Nadia Fettah Alaoui, Morocco’s Minister of the Economy and Finance, and Antoine Armand, French Minister of the Economy, Finance, and Industry, in attendance.
As part of the agreement, Thales Alenia Space will design and launch a high-performance flexible satellite that will provide high-speed internet to support Africa’s digital transformation. The satellite will enable high-value-added services for governments, businesses, and individuals, and help bridge the digital divide in remote and rural communities.
Panafsat’s Chairman and CEO, Ahmed Toumi, emphasized that this project represents a critical step in Morocco’s digital transformation and the broader development of Africa’s digital economy. He highlighted the positive impact it will have on millions of people who will gain access to essential internet services. He also expressed confidence in the partnership with Thales Alenia Space.
Hervé Derrey, CEO of Thales Alenia Space, expressed pride in being chosen for this project, which he believes will significantly contribute to bridging the digital divide, boosting economic growth, and enhancing digital sovereignty across Africa. He looks forward to a long-term partnership with Panafsat.
This MoU is part of a broader roadmap established by France and Morocco, which includes digitalization initiatives such as Digital Economy for Africa (DE4A) and Digital Morocco 2030, as well as preparations for Morocco’s hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
