Casablanca – Orange Group, a major player in the telecommunications industry, has unveiled plans to strengthen its investments in Morocco, making the country a key hub for its expansion across Africa and the Middle East. This initiative aims to enhance the group’s digital infrastructure and broaden its services, especially with an eye toward developing 5G networks.
Christel Heydemann, CEO of Orange Group, highlighted the significance of Morocco during a press conference in Casablanca, noting its strategic importance within the group’s regional operations. Since 2019, the headquarters for Orange Middle East & Africa (OMEA) has been based in Casablanca, a testament to Morocco’s role in Orange’s growth strategy. “With a presence in 18 countries, OMEA has seen continuous growth for six consecutive quarters, driven by local anchoring and diversified activities,” Heydemann explained.
Orange employs 3,500 people in Morocco across various subsidiaries, including Orange Maroc, Orange Cyberdefense, and Orange Business. The latter two focus on cybersecurity and connectivity solutions, respectively, for both local and international clients. The group also operates through Sofrecom, a specialized engineering entity with more than 1,200 staff in Morocco working on international network-related projects.
Focus on 5G development and fiber optics expansion
One of Orange Maroc’s primary objectives is to lead the deployment of 5G in the country, in line with Morocco’s plans to expand coverage to 25% of the territory by 2026 and 70% by 2030, coinciding with the country’s co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal. This effort complements ongoing work in expanding fiber optic networks under Morocco’s Digital 2030 strategy, aimed at reaching 5.6 million households.
Orange Maroc CEO Hendrik Kasteel emphasized the group’s efforts in bringing digital advancements to a broader population, stating, “We have democratized fiber optics in Morocco. Now, our goal is to continue these efforts with 5G and other digital solutions.”
Partnership for youth employment and skills development
In addition to telecommunications development, Orange is investing in youth training through partnerships, such as its recent collaboration with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ). The “Master Repair” project, co-funded with approximately $3 million, aims to provide specialized training for youth in electronics repair and sustainable technology. The program targets Morocco, Tunisia, Senegal, and Egypt, focusing on skills such as electronic device repair and solar panel installation.
The project, which spans three years, will include hands-on training for young people, especially those with disabilities, helping them gain practical skills for sustainable employment. “Our partnership with GIZ demonstrates our commitment to equipping youth, women, and vulnerable groups with the skills necessary for sustainable professional integration,” noted Jérôme Hénique, CEO of Orange Middle East & Africa.
Toward a more inclusive digital economy
By focusing on infrastructure expansion, training, and partnerships, Orange aims to foster a more inclusive digital economy in Morocco. Efforts such as promoting entrepreneurship, facilitating access to digital tools, and supporting initiatives that align with the circular economy underscore Orange’s long-term commitment to sustainable development in the region.
As Orange continues to prioritize innovation and regional leadership, Morocco remains central to its efforts to drive digital transformation and connect communities across Africa and the Middle East.
