New Industrial Zones to Boost Casablanca's Economy
During the week of March 5th to 12th, significant developments were announced that could reshape the business landscape in the Casablanca-Settat region of Morocco. On March 7th, two agreements were signed to establish three new industrial zones covering a total area of 1,100 hectares, strategically located between Mohammedia and Benslimane. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for industrial land in one of the country's most vibrant economic regions, where investor interest has been steadily increasing.
The planned industrial sites will be developed in Sidi Moussa El Mejdoub, Moualine El Oued, and Aïn Tizgha, with expectations of generating over 35,000 jobs. To facilitate the establishment of industrial and logistics activities, these plots will be offered at prices lower than the current market rates. This strategic move is not just about creating new zones; it also aims to tackle a structural issue in Greater Casablanca, where the scarcity of industrial land has become a significant barrier for potential investors. By expanding the available offerings, the region seeks to maintain its attractiveness while supporting the growth of new industrial chains.
Bank of Africa's Strategic Role in Solar Energy Development
In a remarkable step towards sustainable energy, Bank of Africa has entered into a partnership to support the Noor Atlas solar program, spearheaded by MASEN, with an investment of approximately 2.8 billion dirhams. This ambitious project involves the construction of six photovoltaic power plants located in Aïn Beni Mathar, Bouanane, Boudnib, Enjil, Tan-Tan, and Tata, collectively aiming for a total generation capacity of 240 MW. The financing structure for this project includes loans from Bank of Africa and MASEN, featuring concessionary lines from the German bank KfW and the European Investment Bank. The electricity produced will be sold to ONEE under long-term purchase agreements.
This initiative not only illustrates a significant shift in how Moroccan banks are approaching financing but also highlights their evolving role in the energy transition. Traditionally focused on conventional corporate financing, these financial institutions are now stepping up as key partners in major green infrastructure projects, a sector poised for growth as Morocco accelerates its energy agenda.
Furthermore, the pan-African group NETIS has taken a majority stake in Moroccan company Netcom Technologies, a deal finalized on February 17th, pending approval from the Competition Council. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance NETIS's presence in Morocco while expanding its capabilities in critical technology infrastructures across Africa. Established in Casablanca since 1992, Netcom Technologies specializes in telecommunications networks, IT infrastructures, cybersecurity, and systems integration for public institutions and large organizations. The company is renowned for managing complex projects that require high levels of availability and security. This transaction reflects a broader trend in infrastructure technology, as pan-African groups seek to strengthen their positions in markets where public projects, telecommunications, and service digitization are generating considerable demand.
As reported by telquel.ma.
