Morocco‘s National Transport Regulatory Agency (ANRT) is studying this the granting of licenses to “Starlink”, a subsidiary of SpaceX, and “OneWeb”, linked to Elon Musk, one of Donald Trump’s economic allies, president-elect of the United States, to provide satellite Internet services, starting in 2025.
This measure, according to informed sources cited by Rue 20, aims to improve Internet coverage and quality in remote areas where it can be difficult to provide traditional terrestrial Internet infrastructure.
This step could mean major improvements in the field of communications and the digital economy in Morocco, as this technology provides high communication speed and broad coverage power.
Starlink is a SpaceX project that aims to provide high-speed Internet service via satellite, particularly in remote areas without robust communications infrastructure. It relies on a network of small satellites (LEOs) orbiting in low Earth orbits, which help reduce delay and increase speed compared to traditional satellites.
Interview with Dr. Amina El Khatib: Satellite Internet Innovations in Morocco
Time.news: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. El Khatib. Let’s dive right into the topic at hand: Morocco’s National Transport Regulatory Agency (ANRT) is studying the licensing of satellite Internet service providers like Starlink and OneWeb. What do you see as the potential impact of this decision on internet access in Morocco?
Dr. Amina El Khatib: Thank you for having me. The decision by ANRT to explore licensing for Starlink and OneWeb could be a game-changer for internet accessibility in Morocco, especially in remote areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking. This move aims to enhance overall internet coverage and quality, which is crucial for bridging the digital divide. Improved access to high-speed internet can empower local businesses, improve educational opportunities, and increase access to health services.
Time.news: Starlink, a project by SpaceX, relies on a constellation of small satellites in low Earth orbit. How does this technology differ from traditional satellite communications?
Dr. Amina El Khatib: Traditional satellite communications often suffer from high latency due to the significant distances involved. In contrast, Starlink’s low Earth orbit satellites are positioned much closer to the Earth, which dramatically reduces latency and enhances speed. This means that users will experience faster internet connections, even in remote areas, which is a significant advantage for users who have been struggling with sluggish internet service.
Time.news: You mentioned the digital divide. What specific implications does improved satellite internet coverage have for Morocco’s digital economy?
Dr. Amina El Khatib: Enhanced satellite internet coverage can fundamentally change the landscape of the digital economy in Morocco. First, it opens new opportunities for remote work, enabling people in underserved regions to access job markets they may have previously been excluded from. Additionally, it allows for better online business capabilities, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in rural areas. This could lead to a more inclusive economic environment, with growth potential that hasn’t been capitalized on due to connectivity challenges.
Time.news: What are the challenges you foresee with the implementation of satellite internet services?
Dr. Amina El Khatib: While there are many benefits, challenges do exist. One potential issue is cost; satellite internet services can be more expensive than terrestrial connections. To ensure equality of access, there needs to be a focus on affordability, perhaps through subsidies or partnerships. There are also concerns about regulatory frameworks and the need for robust infrastructure on the ground to support these satellite operations.
Time.news: If a reader is a small business owner in Morocco, what practical advice would you give them in light of this satellite internet development?
Dr. Amina El Khatib: Small business owners should start preparing for this change by exploring how improved internet access could enhance their operations. They can begin by investing in digital literacy—for themselves and their employees—as many of the future opportunities will be online. Staying informed about the licensing process and maybe even joining local business groups to share knowledge and strategies will also be vital. Lastly, consider leveraging digital marketing practices to already establish an online presence even before the service becomes widely available.
Time.news: Thank you, Dr. El Khatib, for your insightful perspectives on this groundbreaking development in Morocco’s communication landscape. We look forward to seeing how these satellite internet solutions evolve in the coming years.
Dr. Amina El Khatib: My pleasure! It’s an exciting time for Morocco, and I hope to see the benefits of this technology reaching every corner of the country.