Morocco is propelling its railway network into a new dimension. A wave of modernization focused on safety and innovation is transforming the rail sector. Faced with steadily increasing traffic, the challenges are significant, but the country is intensifying its efforts with the ambition of establishing itself as a strategic railway hub in Africa.
Faced with the expansion of its railway network, notably the introduction of high-speed rail and annual traffic exceeding 50 million passengers, Morocco is confronted with a major challenge: maintaining a high level of safety without compromising performance. To address this strategic issue, the National Railway Office (ONCF) is partnering with the International Union of Railways (UIC) and is relying on innovation, digitalization, and artificial intelligence.
“The Moroccan model is establishing itself as a benchmark, reflecting the confidence of the international railway community. The International Union of Railways has notably praised the efforts of the National Railway Office. This momentum is also taking shape through the launch, under the impetus of King Mohammed VI, of one of the country’s most ambitious railway projects: the Kenitra–Marrakech high-speed line.”
ABDESSAMAD KAYOUH, Minister of Transport and Logistics – Morocco
To support this transformation, the National Railway Office is deploying 1,200 security agents, 900 control officers, and more than 2,000 cameras, with the support of law enforcement forces. In parallel, nearly $10 billion is being invested to modernize the network, notably with the future Rabat–Marrakech high-speed line and the development of regional rail services.
“The Moroccan railway sector, which has experienced significant progress over the past two decades under the enlightened vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.”
MOHAMED RABIE KHLIE, Director General; National Railway Office – Morocco
The strategy is based on the integration of new technologies and the strengthening of international cooperation. The objective is to improve the reliability of the network, anticipate risks, and adopt global standards in railway safety.
“Our duty is to collectively examine the threats, analyze them, and systematically provide solutions, particularly rapid ones, in order to ensure the resilience of the system.”
FRANÇOIS DAVENNE , Director General, International Union of Railways – France
With the expansion of high-speed rail following the Al Boraq line and a clearly stated continental ambition, Morocco is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s railway sector. A model in the making, at the crossroads of modernization, safety, and regional influence.
