Latest news with #ANRT
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ookla's analysis report examines Morocco's fixed network performance and Wi-Fi speed at top hotels
Ookla ( a global connectivity intelligence company, has released an insightful analysis of fixed network performance in Morocco ( and its readiness to support the influx of tourists and the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) sporting event. The report sheds light on the performance of fixed broadband in key tourist cities and the speed of Wi-Fi in top hotels in Morocco, offering valuable insights as the country prepares for the summer tourist season and to host the AFCON from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Ookla's examination of Wi-Fi performance in the country's premier hotels highlights how the infrastructure is adapting to meet the demands of high-speed internet connectivity, supporting guests and football fans during their stay. The report showcases the ongoing growth of Morocco's fixed telecom sector, driven by fibre optic deployments, which are rapidly improving network performance. The fixed wired broadband market has grown significantly, reaching nearly 2.6 million connections by September 2024, up from over 1.6 million in 2019, according to the Moroccan telecom regulator (ANRT). 'Our analysis reveals the ongoing transformation of Morocco's digital infrastructure, which will play a crucial role in supporting the influx of tourists and international events such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. With continued investment in fibre and the upcoming 5G rollout, Morocco is boosting its appeal as a tourist destination, especially for travellers who prioritize seamless online access.', said Karim Yaici, Lead Industry Analyst for the Middle East and Africa at Ookla. Ookla's report sets forth a series of invaluable insights. According to Speedtest Intelligence® ( data, Morocco's leading cities, Rabat and Casablanca, are at the forefront of fixed broadband performance. These cities recorded median broadband speeds of 36.55 Mbps and 35.57 Mbps, respectively, in Q4 2024. Furthermore, Wi-Fi performance in luxury hotels in Agadir and Marrakesh are setting a high standard. Hotels such as The View, Hotel Riu Palace Tikida, and La Mamounia are leading the way, delivering excellent Wi-Fi performance with median download speeds of 72.27 Mbps, 55.72 Mbps, and 54.64 Mbps, respectively. Despite lower broadband speeds in these cities, the Wi-Fi in these top hotels far outperforms its peers in other cities with higher overall broadband speeds. Casablanca and Rabat offer strong fixed broadband performance, but some of their five-star hotels face challenges in delivering high-quality Wi-Fi service. These properties, which are likely connected to fibre networks, deliver limited Wi-Fi performance. Potential causes include outdated or misconfigured access points. Optimising equipment placements and upgrading systems could enhance guest experience by reducing congestion and improving connectivity. The broadband market in Morocco is poised for significant growth, driven by fibre deployment and plans for a 5G technology rollout. The Moroccan government's 'Maroc Digital 2030' initiative, with a budget of USD 1 billion, aims to connect 4.4 million households with fibre by the end of 2025 and reach 5.6 million households and 6300 government institutions by 2030. This expansion, along with the launch of 5G services this year promises to improve overall internet connectivity and strengthen the telecom sector in Morocco, providing a strong foundation for the tourism and hospitality industries. As Morocco prepares for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, these advancements in fixed broadband and Wi-Fi infrastructure are crucial for ensuring that both visitors and athletes experience the best in network performance. Read the full report here ( Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ookla®. ABOUT OOKLA®: Ookla, a global leader in connectivity intelligence, brings together the trusted expertise of Speedtest®, Downdetector®, Ekahau®, and RootMetrics® to deliver unmatched network and connectivity insights. By combining multi-source data with industry-leading expertise, we transform network performance metrics into strategic, actionable insights. Our solutions empower service providers, enterprises, and governments with the critical data and insights needed to optimize networks, enhance digital experiences, and help close the digital divide. At the same time, we amplify the real-world experiences of individuals and businesses that rely on connectivity to work, learn, and communicate. From measuring and analyzing connectivity to driving industry innovation, Ookla helps the world stay connected. Ookla is a division of Ziff Davis (NASDAQ: ZD), a vertically focused digital media and internet company whose portfolio includes leading brands in technology, entertainment, shopping, health, cybersecurity, and martech. Ookla is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, with offices around the globe.
Morocco World
24-04-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco Launches 5G: 25% Coverage by 2025, 70% by 2030
Doha – Morocco is set to embark on a transformative technological advancement with the rollout of 5G mobile technology scheduled for November, just before the start of the African Cup of Nations (AFCON). According to the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT), the country aims to provide 5G access to 25% of its population by the end of 2025, expanding to 70% by 2030. The deployment will initially focus on major urban centers and key economic zones, with industrial areas, technology parks, and innovation hubs receiving priority access. Universities, research centers, and industries such as automotive and aeronautics will also be among the first to benefit from this next-generation connectivity. 'The new regulatory standards currently being finalized by ANRT will ensure not only extensive coverage but also quality service, essential to meet user expectations,' said an agency spokesperson quoted in the press. This ambitious project is partially built on an unprecedented partnership between Maroc Telecom and Inwi, which formalized the creation of two joint ventures in March. The first, named FiberCo, plans to install one million fiber optic connections in the next two years and three million within five years. The second, TowerCo, will be responsible for building 2,000 telecommunications towers by 2028 and 6,000 by 2033. This investment program, estimated at MAD 4.4 billion ($440 million), aims to optimize costs and accelerate national coverage through shared infrastructure. Meanwhile, Orange Morocco is considering a distinct strategy, balancing between autonomy and partnerships for infrastructure sharing. The agreement between Maroc Telecom and Inwi marks a decisive shift in their relationship. The two companies had been at odds for years over infrastructure sharing issues, resulting in a legal battle where Maroc Telecom was ordered to pay MAD 6.38 billion ($638 million) in compensation to Inwi. Under the new agreement, ongoing appeals will be abandoned and the compensation reduced to MAD 4.38 billion ($438 million). What will Morocco gain from deploying 5G? In addition to mobile internet speeds, 5G technology is expected to transform multiple sectors in Morocco. In transportation, it will enable optimized traffic management. Smart homes will see remarkable expansion, while factories and industrial facilities will experience increased efficiency. Agriculture, public services, and digital administrative procedures will also benefit from these advancements. International studies have shown that a 10% increase in mobile broadband penetration can lead to GDP growth of up to 2.5%, which further underlines the economic potential of this technological leap for Morocco. The strategic timing of the 5G rollout is linked to major sporting events. Beyond the AFCON in 2025, Morocco is preparing its digital infrastructure for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host with Spain and Portugal. By that time, Morocco aims to achieve full nationwide coverage, positioning itself as a regional leader in digital innovation on the global stage. According to ANRT data, Morocco had 37.44 million mobile internet users as of December 31, 2024. The introduction of 5G represents a crucial step in the country's 'Digital Morocco 2030' national strategy, which promotes 'infrastructure sharing and co-investment' as key principles for advancing the country's digital transformation. Read also: Maroc Telecom Doubles Internet Speed for Fiber Customers at No Extra Cost Tags: 5G5G technology Morocco
Morocco World
15-03-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
ANRT Mandates Fiber Optic Network Sharing Among Telecom Operators
Doha – Morocco's National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) issued a groundbreaking decision on March 4, requiring telecom operators to share their fiber optic infrastructure. The decision, referenced as DG/05/2025, establishes new technical and pricing guidelines for infrastructure sharing among the country's three major operators: Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi. Operators can function in two distinct capacities under the new framework: as Infrastructure Operators (IO) or Commercial Operators (CO). Infrastructure Operators must lease their networks to competitors, while Commercial Operators can provide services using their competitors' infrastructure, even in areas where they lack their own network coverage. The regulation mandates Infrastructure Operators to ensure non-discriminatory access and publish their pricing structures, including after-sales services. To streamline operations, the decision requires the implementation of web services to automate processes between Infrastructure and Commercial Operators, particularly for ordering and after-sales support. This initiative aims to avoid the complications previously experienced with copper network (ADSL) sharing and accelerate fiber optic deployment across Morocco. The decision shatters the decades-long current market dominance of Maroc Telecom, the historic operator. This shift comes as Mohamed Benchaaboun takes the helm, succeeding Abdeslam Ahizoune, whose 27-year tenure was marred by allegations of anti-competitive practices and monopolistic control that hindered sectoral growth. Read also: Morocco Speeds Up Technical Studies on Infrastructure to Prepare for World Cup 2030 Inwi has already taken the lead in implementing these changes, opening access to its FTTH (Fiber to the Home) infrastructure to competitors as of March 13. The other operators are expected to follow suit promptly. The regulatory change aligns with Morocco's Digital 2030 strategy, which targets increasing fiber-eligible households from 1.5 million in 2022 to 5.6 million by 2030. Currently, fiber subscribers number less than one million. The initiative is backed by substantial investment plans totaling MAD 20 billion ($2 billion). While current end-user pricing remains regulated by ANRT, industry sources indicate that gradual price reductions are anticipated as network coverage expands and infrastructure investments are optimized. The sharing mechanism is designed to prevent redundant infrastructure investments in the same areas, allowing operators to focus on different zones while maintaining service availability through infrastructure sharing. The decision also paves the way for the upcoming 5G network deployment, which requires robust fiber optic infrastructure. Industry observers expect 5G tender announcements during the upcoming GITEX Africa event in Marrakech next month. As of February, all operators have published their new technical and pricing offers on their respective websites, complying with ANRT's requirements. The measure is expected to enhance competition, expand national coverage, and eventually lead to more competitive pricing for consumers while optimizing the substantial infrastructure investments planned for the sector.
Ya Biladi
15-03-2025
- Business
- Ya Biladi
Morocco's telecommunications regulator enforces fiber optic network sharing
The National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency (ANRT) has introduced a strict regulatory framework requiring Moroccan telecom operators to share fiber optic infrastructure. This move aims to foster fair competition, accelerate the expansion of high-speed internet, and enhance service quality across the country. Under the new rules, operators are now classified into two categories: Infrastructure Operators (IO), who own and deploy fiber optic networks and must provide access to other operators under transparent, non-discriminatory conditions; and Commercial Operators (CO), who use these networks to deliver services to consumers. The regulations apply to both existing infrastructure and future deployments, with access rates required to be publicly available and monitored to prevent market distortion. This reform aligns with the Morocco Digital 2030 vision, supporting the development of 5G by expanding access to network infrastructure. The ANRT aims to increase the number of households eligible for fiber optic connections from 1.5 million in 2022 to 5.6 million by 2030. Additionally, the policy is expected to enhance competition by allowing alternative providers like Inwi and Orange to challenge Maroc Telecom's longstanding dominance in fixed infrastructure. Mandating infrastructure sharing is expected to bring several benefits: Lower fiber optic access costs through shared investments. Expanded coverage, particularly in less profitable areas where operators were previously reluctant to invest.
