Morocco seeks private funding to expand rail network

Transport and Logistics Minister Mr Mohamed Abdeljalil told the Moroccan parliament that private finance and other innovative solutions would be needed to secure the AED400 billion ($39 billion) needed to expand the 5,100 km rail network. Railway Supply magazine writes about this, citing IRJ.

The Moroccan National Railways (ONCF) is leading a long-term program to build 1,300 km of high-speed lines and 3,800 km of new conventional routes. According to Abdeljalil, this will increase the number of cities in the national network from 23 to 43, providing access to rail services for 87% of the population, compared to 51% at present.

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In November 2022, ONCF signed a financial contract with the European Investment Bank (EIB) to upgrade its existing 2,300 km network. The EIB agreed to provide 2.1 billion dirhams. An agreement is expected to be signed this year, under which the EIB will provide another 527 million dirhams.

The new funding will support ONCF’s investment plan to upgrade infrastructure, equipment and depots. This will include track upgrades and repairs, as well as traction power, signaling and telecommunications systems.

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