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Fez invests $14 million in advanced video surveillance for urban security

Thursday 03 - 11:20 By: Dakir Madiha

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City officials in Fez have announced an ambitious initiative to enhance the city's video surveillance network as part of a comprehensive urban development strategy. This project, spearheaded by the Local Development Company Fez Region Planning (FRA), will allocate over MAD 140 million (approximately $14 million) to bolster urban security infrastructure in anticipation of significant sporting events, including the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

The project consists of two complementary tenders aimed at creating a robust security framework. The overall budget, which exceeds MAD 140 million, covers essential civil engineering work and the technological components necessary for the project.

The first tender, with a budget of MAD 42.21 million ($4.22 million), focuses on foundational groundwork. This phase involves trench digging, fiber optic and electrical conduit installation, and constructing support structures for surveillance cameras. The work will proceed in two phases, starting with an initial segment costing MAD 15.3 million ($1.53 million), expected to be completed in five months. This will be followed by a conditional segment budgeted at MAD 26.9 million ($2.69 million) with a seven-month timeline.

The second tender, which is more extensive, addresses the technological aspects titled “Strengthening and Extending Fez’s Video Surveillance System.” Valued at MAD 98.01 million ($9.8 million), this contract includes the supply, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of all surveillance equipment.

The implementation of this technology will commence with a firm phase budgeted at MAD 45.39 million ($4.53 million), a critical stage that involves installing key system components such as the video management platform, storage and analysis servers, monitoring stations, and display walls.

Fez's future surveillance system will incorporate various camera types, including PTZ dome cameras, license plate readers, facial recognition units, and fixed cameras, along with essential networking equipment and technical facilities. A conditional phase estimated at MAD 43.62 million ($4.36 million) is planned for potential future expansions of the system's capabilities or geographic coverage.

Additionally, two further conditional phases, each budgeted at MAD 4.5 million ($0.45 million), will ensure essential maintenance services, thereby guaranteeing the long-term effectiveness and reliability of the system.

This extensive surveillance initiative is part of Morocco's broader urban development strategy. Rabat has also initiated a similar project, intending to deploy an advanced surveillance system featuring 4,000 AI-powered cameras by the end of 2025, with a budget of MAD 108 million ($10.8 million). This endeavor aims to transform Morocco’s capital into a smart, secure city through the integration of cutting-edge technology.

Concerns regarding privacy related to video surveillance have prompted the Moroccan National Commission for the Protection of Personal Data (CNDP) to consider regulations. The CNDP plans to conduct hearings to address privacy issues associated with video surveillance, emphasizing the importance of balancing public safety and individual rights.

Ultimately, these surveillance projects are vital not only for enhancing the safety of citizens and property but also in preparing Moroccan cities for prestigious international sporting events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal.