Maroc Telecom’s 3.3-billion dirham fine, issued by Morocco’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ANRT), has been directed into a fund set up by the government to combat Coronavirus (COVID-19).

In February 2020 ITWeb Africa reported that the telco was fined for anti-competition practices that contravened regulations governing local loop unbundling (LLU).

The company was accused of hindering its rivals' access to LLU and fixed broadband. The company initially said it would appeal the decision, but has since paid the fine.

The newly established Fund will cover the costs of upgrading the medical sector by providing suitable infrastructure and additional means to be acquired, urgently “to treat, in good conditions, people who are infected with the virus”.

This fund will also support the national economy to cope with the impact of the pandemic.

Officials have confirmed it will support the country’s economy by financing measures that will be proposed by the government “to preserve vulnerable sectors, preserve jobs and mitigate the social repercussions caused by the health crisis.”

In addition to ANRT, other donors include Afriquia Gas, Bank of Africa, members of parliament and government officials. Members of the government donated one month's salary, members of the two Houses of Parliament announced that they had contributed with their monthly allowances.

The fund which was initiated by King Mohammed VI initially targeted 10 billion dirhams but has now received over 25 billion dirhams due to its widespread support.