Maroc Telecom and IFC Launch €370M Partnership to Expand 4G in Mali and Chad

In a powerful step toward bridging the digital divide in sub-Saharan Africa, Maroc Telecom and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have entered into a long-term partnership aimed at accelerating mobile broadband connectivity in Mali and Chad. This partnership will deliver €370 million in financing—channeled through two strategic loans—to support the deployment of 4G services in the two countries, advancing digital inclusion, economic development, and financial empowerment for millions.

Transforming Digital Infrastructure in Fragile States

The partnership is particularly noteworthy as it focuses on Mali and Chad, two landlocked nations facing structural economic and connectivity challenges. Both countries are characterized by large, youthful populations and significant gaps in access to reliable, high-speed internet. The rollout of 4G mobile infrastructure will dramatically improve service quality and coverage, opening up opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and modernized service delivery in areas such as healthcare, education, and digital commerce.

“Operating in the sub-Saharan Africa region for more than 20 years, Maroc Telecom Group’s strategy is to enhance telecommunication and associated products to serve a fast-growing young population,” said Mohamed Benchaaboun, CEO of Maroc Telecom. “With over 57 million customers outside of Morocco, our operations span fixed-line, mobile, and broadband services. Mobile data is essential for internet access, and expanding 4G is vital for bridging the digital divide.”

Supporting Financial Inclusion and Innovation

Beyond better connectivity, the expanded 4G network will facilitate the growth of services such as Mobile Money, which has become a transformative tool in African markets for promoting financial inclusion. These platforms provide access to banking and financial services for underserved communities, many of whom have never had access to traditional banking.

Maroc Telecom’s expansion will enable the company to enhance its product portfolio, offering customers in Mali and Chad faster mobile internet, improved service quality, and digital financial services. The move also aligns with broader regional development objectives by enhancing access to economic and social infrastructure, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.

A Strategic Investment in Africa’s Digital Future

The IFC’s investment in Maroc Telecom is part of its broader commitment to supporting regional champions—leading companies with cross-border operations that catalyze economic transformation in Africa’s most fragile and underserved regions.

“Supporting cross-border investments through regional champions like Maroc Telecom is a strategic priority for IFC—especially in fragile and conflict-affected areas, where economic development fosters stability,” said Makhtar Diop, IFC Managing Director. “By mobilizing private capital to expand digital infrastructure, we’re unlocking opportunities for innovation, skills development, and job creation across Africa—fully aligned with the continent’s priorities.”

The €370 million investment will not only finance the expansion of 4G networks but also help modernize digital infrastructure, allowing future upgrades and contributing to more robust, resilient ICT ecosystems in both Mali and Chad.

Alignment with Africa’s Digital Vision

This initiative complements the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy, which aims to establish a secure and inclusive Single Digital Market across the continent by 2030. The strategy envisions universal access to affordable broadband, digital literacy for all, and the development of a thriving digital economy powered by innovation and inclusion.

By extending affordable, high-quality internet to underserved areas, Maroc Telecom and IFC are taking tangible steps toward realizing this vision. In turn, better connectivity will help small businesses grow, facilitate access to education and health services, and empower a new generation of African digital entrepreneurs.