On March 27, 2026, a significant roundtable event took place in Casablanca, focusing on the pressing issues of urban and inter-communal mobility in the context of hosting major international events. This gathering was particularly timely following the successful organization of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which underscored the need for effective transportation systems capable of accommodating the unique demands of such large-scale gatherings.
Hosted by the Casablanca-Settat region in collaboration with Casa Transport and RATPDEV Casablanca, the roundtable aimed to foster discussions on how transportation systems can meet the extraordinary requirements of international events while simultaneously enhancing the sustainable movement of citizens. The event brought together a diverse panel of national and international experts, institutional decision-makers, and leading operators in the transport sector, allowing for a rich exchange of ideas surrounding governance, planning, technological innovation, and sustainable transitions in mobility.
During this important meeting, Abdellatif Maâzouz, President of the Casablanca-Settat Regional Council, articulated the region's strategic plans to improve mobility infrastructure, which includes advancements in road, rail, and airport facilities as well as the modernization of transport equipment. He emphasized the commitment to introducing a new generation of mobility solutions, such as new buses, the deployment of a bus rapid transit system (busway), the upcoming operation of tram lines 3 and 4, and the launch of Morocco's first Regional Express Network (RER) that connects Benslimane to Nouaceur, serving various towns along the route.
Maâzouz further stated that the goal is to create a mobility framework that is accessible, citizen-centric, and environmentally friendly, aimed at relieving pressure on road infrastructures and promoting the use of public transport. He noted that a program for acquiring new buses is underway and expected to continue until 2027, while the RER is projected to be operational by 2029, with the ambition of allowing citizens to access public transportation within ten minutes from their homes.
Christophe Tenthorey, General Director of RATPDEV Casablanca, echoed these sentiments, highlighting that the roundtable serves as an opportunity to address urban, metropolitan, and regional mobility challenges, particularly in light of governance issues and future mobility perspectives. He reminded attendees that RATPDEV Casablanca has been integral to developing public transportation in the metropolis since 2012, operating the tramway and now the busway. Tenthorey also pointed out the importance of these discussions in the wake of the Africa Cup of Nations and in preparation for the upcoming 2030 World Cup, events that necessitate meticulous planning regarding mobility.
The roundtable featured two key sessions: one dedicated to the planning and governance of transport systems in response to new demands, and the other focusing on the future of mobility, including intermodality, sustainable transitions, and technological innovation.
As reported by fr.allafrica.com.
