Morocco is set to accelerate the expansion of its world-class railway network after securing €205 million in financing from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to extend its high-speed rail system and modernize key transport infrastructure. The investment reinforces the Kingdom’s long-term vision of building one of Africa’s most advanced and sustainable transportation networks while strengthening its position as a strategic logistics gateway between Europe and the African continent.
The financing will support the Rail Infrastructure Development Support Project (PADIF), which focuses on expanding the Kenitra–Marrakech high-speed rail corridor and upgrading conventional railway infrastructure serving one of Morocco’s busiest passenger and freight routes. The project is expected to improve mobility between the country’s major economic centers, increase railway capacity and provide faster, safer and more reliable transportation for millions of passengers each year.
The modernization programme also aims to enhance Morocco’s logistics competitiveness by reducing travel times and lowering freight transportation costs. As trade volumes continue to grow, an upgraded rail network is expected to facilitate the movement of goods across the country, improve supply chain efficiency and support Morocco’s ambition to become a regional hub for commerce, manufacturing and international investment.
Beyond economic benefits, the railway expansion forms part of Morocco’s broader commitment to sustainable development. By encouraging greater use of rail transport, the project is expected to reduce road congestion, lower greenhouse gas emissions and promote cleaner mobility solutions, supporting the Kingdom’s environmental and climate objectives.
The project includes the acquisition of new rails, track components and specialized equipment to modernize both the high-speed and conventional railway networks, particularly along the Kenitra–Marrakech corridor and around the Casablanca railway hub. Technical assistance for engineering supervision, project management and performance monitoring has also been incorporated to ensure the efficient implementation of the programme.
According to the African Development Bank, the investment aligns closely with Morocco’s New Development Model and the country’s Rail 2040 Plan, a national strategy designed to modernize railway infrastructure, improve regional connectivity and support long-term economic growth. The initiative also supports the Bank’s commitment to financing resilient infrastructure that promotes inclusive and sustainable development across Africa.
Since 1978, the African Development Bank has invested nearly €15 billion in Morocco through more than 150 development projects spanning transport, energy, agriculture, water and sanitation, governance, social protection and financial services. The latest railway investment further strengthens the long-standing partnership between Morocco and the Bank while highlighting confidence in the Kingdom’s ambitious infrastructure agenda.
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As Morocco continues investing in modern transport systems, the expansion of its high-speed railway network is expected to reinforce the country’s reputation as a leader in African infrastructure development, improve national connectivity and create new opportunities for trade, tourism and sustainable economic growth.
