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ONCF Green Bond

Building a greener future for Africa.

How Morocco’s pioneering green bond and
renewable energy transition are reshaping Africa’s railways.

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million people with improved acess to transportation

The ONCF green bond journey

From Renewable Energy to High-Speed Rail

Since 2009, Morocco has been undertaking a bold and ambitious energy transition, setting itself on course to produce more than half of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. This effort is part of a larger strategy to reduce the nation’s carbon footprint and strengthen its resilience against climate change. In this context, the Moroccan National Railways Office (ONCF) has become a driving force for sustainable development, introducing a series of transformative projects designed to support Morocco’s energy goals. Among these projects, ONCF’s high-speed rail line stands out as Africa’s first rail service powered entirely by wind energy—a testament to Morocco’s pioneering role in green infrastructure and climate-conscious innovation.

To finance this visionary project, ONCF issued Morocco’s inaugural Green Bond in 2022, securing a total of 1 billion Moroccan dirhams (roughly £80 million). This bond, the first in Morocco’s infrastructure sector, enabled ONCF to refinance the construction of the high-speed rail link connecting Tangier to Kenitra. The initiative brought together a range of strategic partners, including CDG Capital, a leader in sustainable finance in Morocco, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), whose commitment to green investments aligned perfectly with the project’s objectives. Facilitated by FSD Africa, these partnerships ensured that the Green Bond adhered to the highest standards of sustainable financing, setting a precedent in Morocco’s journey toward green investment and environmentally responsible development.

The high-speed rail line has already begun to redefine mobility in Morocco, reducing travel times and connecting cities at an unprecedented pace. Its environmental benefits are equally significant, with an anticipated reduction of over 2.5 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions over the next 30 years—equivalent to the planting of four million trees. But for individuals like Hicham, a young technician from a nearby town, this project represents much more than an impressive engineering feat. Before the construction of the high-speed line, Hicham’s job opportunities were limited, often demanding long hours away from his family. Today, he works in ONCF’s maintenance division, ensuring that the line’s operations run smoothly and safely. This role has given him both a stable income and a newfound pride in being part of something that directly contributes to his country’s fight against climate change. Stories like Hicham’s illustrate the broader impact of ONCF’s Green Bond initiative, a project that connects people, builds skills and offers hope for a greener, more sustainable future.

Story of the green bond issuance

A Commitment to sustainability
Morocco has long embraced climate resilience and ambitious renewable energy goals, which laid the groundwork for the nation’s first green bond for infrastructure. Recognising that sustainable transport is vital to achieving these objectives, the Office National des Chemins de Fer (ONCF) took action to transform its railway network into a greener, more efficient system.
Building the high-speed rail
In partnership with CDG Capital and FSD Africa, ONCF pioneered Africa’s first high-speed rail line powered entirely by wind energy. This innovative route, which connects Tangier to Marrakech, represents a breakthrough in eco-friendly mobility for the region and stands as a model for sustainable infrastructure development. By significantly reducing travel times, it has increased the accessibility and efficiency of intercity travel while supporting Morocco’s environmental goals.
Scaling green finance
We played a key role in helping ONCF structure and launch the green bond, aimed at attracting both local and international investment. This bond, valued at 1 billion Moroccan dirhams (around USD 100 million), marks a milestone in green finance in Morocco. Aligning international green bond standards, the issuance provided vital financing and opened new pathways for green investments in the country and across Africa
Sustainable impact
Today, ONCF’s high-speed trains run daily, powered by renewable energy, with 100% of the high-speed line and 90% of the overall rail network running on wind-generated electricity. This shift in ONCF’s energy model demonstrates a deep commitment to reducing carbon emissions and achieving Morocco’s clean energy vision. The impact is substantial establishing ONCF as a leader in sustainable transport across Africa.
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Key impact metrics

121,000 tonnes of CO2 reduced yearly

Equivalent to planting 4 million trees, ONCF’s green bond-funded railway reduces emissions and brings sustainable transportation to life.

2.5 million tonnes of CO2 reduction over 30 years

By transitioning to clean energy, ONCF is making sustainable travel accessible, reducing the carbon footprint of thousands.

52% renewable energy by 2030

Morocco’s energy transition goal aligns with ONCF’s vision, marking Morocco as a leader in Africa’s renewable energy movement.

Voices behind the change

Discover insights from visionary partners championing Morocco’s transition to a sustainable future. These testimonials highlight the power of green finance in creating impactful change, from fostering resilience to pioneering sustainable infrastructure across Africa. 

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