Côte d’Ivoire aims to make digital technology a major driver of economic growth and structural transformation of its economy. This commitment is part of a national digital strategy covering the period 2021-2025 and based on seven essential pillars. These include digital infrastructure, digital services, financial services, innovation, cybersecurity, digital private sector development, and digital skills.

Main pillars of Côte d’Ivoire’s digital strategy

Investment in human capital: Training and motivating digital talent are considered essential to drive the digital revolution and ensure its success.

Creation of regional centers of digital excellence: Five centers will be established to train young people and host startups, thus fostering the emergence of a dynamic digital ecosystem.

Development of a national artificial intelligence strategy: Côte d’Ivoire aims to become a strategic AI hub in West Africa, with the concrete implementation of AI solutions in daily life.

Infrastructure strengthening: The country plans to commission more than 5,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable, expand 4G coverage, and implement a new startup law to be adopted in 2023.

Mobilization of significant financing: Digital transformation will require an investment of around 2 trillion CFA francs (3.3 billion USD), considered a strategic investment to boost GDP and attract economic flows.

Expected objectives

GDP improvement: Digital technology is seen as a driver for increasing government revenue and stimulating economic growth.

Transformation of economic sectors: Digital technology must transform key sectors to make the economy more competitive and innovative.

Digital inclusion: The strategy places particular emphasis on training, social inclusion, and the attractiveness of digital careers to bridge the digital divide.

Regional and international positioning: Côte d’Ivoire aims to build a strong and inclusive pan-African digital ecosystem.