Overview of 5G Network Performance in Morocco
A recent report from Ookla, a platform known for its detailed network analysis using Speedtest data, has revealed significant insights into the performance of the fifth-generation mobile network (5G) in Morocco. The country launched this advanced service utilizing a medium frequency band of 3.5 GHz. However, following its launch, Morocco has experienced a noticeable decline in 5G speeds. According to data provided by the National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency, the outdoor coverage reached only 38%, with approximately 2.63 million active subscribers recorded just two months post-launch, indicating a strong initial uptake of the technology.
Challenges and Comparisons with Regional Networks
On the launch day, Morocco achieved an impressive initial download speed of 261.7 megabits per second, with the average speed during the first month peaking at 266.94 megabits per second—this figure represents a six-fold increase compared to its predecessor, 4G. Nevertheless, the regulatory authority mandates operators to expand coverage to 45% of the population by the end of 2026, aimed at meeting the digital needs of cities hosting the Africa Cup of Nations events. The report highlights a troubling trend: within the first six months of operation, 5G speeds in Morocco experienced a significant drop, registering a decrease of approximately 38%, settling between 160 and 165 megabits per second. This decline is attributed to the reliance on a non-standalone (NSA) infrastructure, which is linked to the 4G core network, resulting in data congestion and an overall reduction in the speed of both networks.
When comparing Morocco’s performance with Algeria, a stark contrast emerges. Algeria recorded an opening speed of 484.6 megabits per second on launch day, also utilizing the 3.5 GHz band. Although Algeria saw a decrease to 319.32 megabits per second by the fourth month, it managed to recover, stabilizing at 374.37 megabits by the sixth month. In contrast, Tunisia's approach was different, launching with a daily average of 223.1 megabits and a monthly average of 217.16 megabits, primarily focusing on Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) services as an alternative to copper networks. Tunisia also faced issues, with 5G speeds dropping to 152.92 megabits due to overwhelming subscriber numbers exceeding 319,000.
The comparison extends to Egypt, where distinct strategies regarding frequency bands are apparent. Egypt employed a redistribution of TDD frequencies in the 2.6 GHz range, resulting in a modest opening speed of 110.5 megabits on launch day, with an average of 106.80 megabits monthly. Despite this, the Egyptian network exhibited more stable performance over time, finishing the first half of the year with an average speed of 89 megabits. Ookla's comprehensive report indicates that the performance decline following initial launches was not unique to Morocco, but rather a regional issue, with many networks struggling under the pressure of increased user demand and existing infrastructure constraints. The beginning of 2026 also saw regional expansion in 5G, with Libya joining the market through Al-Madar in Tripoli and Mauritania granting official licenses to launch Shencitel services in Nouakchott.
In conclusion, the report underscores the sustainability challenges facing the 5G network in Morocco and North Africa. The findings suggest that maintaining and enhancing speed levels in the region requires ongoing investment to modernize the 4G core infrastructure. Furthermore, the rapid growth in 5G users in Morocco necessitates bolstering network capacity and ensuring alignment between infrastructure improvements and regulatory commitments for 2026, which is crucial for preventing future congestion issues.
As reported by hespress.com.
