Morocco’s Government Council has approved nine decree projects renewing satellite communication service licenses for telecommunications operators, reinforcing the country’s position as one of Africa’s most advanced space and satellite markets.
The renewals were presented by Minister Delegate for Digital Transition and Administrative Reform Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni during the weekly cabinet meeting in Rabat. Government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas confirmed the decisions following the session.
The renewed licenses cover major players across multiple satellite services. Maroc Telecom and Wana Corporate received approvals to continue VSAT satellite communication services. Green Development and Planning Company secured renewals for both VSAT operations and 3RP frequency-sharing radiocommunication networks.
Cires Telecom SA obtained a renewed license for 3RP technology operations. Three firms—Orbcomm Maghreb, Thuraya Maghreb SA, and Al Hourria Telecom—received renewals for GMPCS public satellite communication networks. Gulfsat Maghreb was also approved to continue operating its VSAT public satellite network.
All applications were endorsed by Morocco’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) in line with current sector regulations.
The move aligns with Morocco’s growing role in Africa’s space ecosystem. According to a September 2025 report by the Africa Center for Strategic Studies, Morocco ranks among the continent’s leading space actors, reflecting sustained investment in satellite assets and regulatory frameworks.
Morocco has launched five satellites to date, joining Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria, Algeria, and Angola among Africa’s most active space-faring nations. These assets support Earth observation, communications, and scientific missions developed through long-term investment and international cooperation.
The Mohammed VI-B satellite, launched in 2018, strengthened national capabilities in environmental monitoring, land management, and strategic planning.
Across Africa, governments now allocate an estimated $500 million annually to space-related activities. More than 21 countries operate space programs, with 18 having launched at least one satellite. The continent has deployed 65 satellites, a figure projected to reach 120 by 2030.
Institutional coordination is also expanding. The African Space Agency, inaugurated in Cairo, aims to streamline continental initiatives, while the Africa–EU Space Partnership Programme, launched in 2025 with €100 million in funding, focuses on climate observation, agriculture, and disaster risk management.
Satellite services are now embedded in daily life across Africa, supporting broadcasting, navigation, and rural connectivity. Morocco’s license renewals ensure continued service delivery across multiple platforms, strengthening national sovereignty, security, and economic resilience in an increasingly space-driven digital economy.
