Côte d’Ivoire has launched two ambitious initiatives: the Digital Readiness Assessment (DRA) and the Digital Flagship for West Africa. The initiatives aim to bolster the country’s digital ecosystem and accelerate progress toward a connected and inclusive society.
In the move to harness the power of digital technology and bridge technological divides, these projects are spearheaded by the Ministry of Digital Transformation and Digitalization, in partnership with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Italian Embassy.
Speaking at the launch, Ibrahim Kalil Konaté, Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Digital Transition and Digitalization, highlighted the government’s commitment to digital advancement. “Although this is just a step, we are realizing a vision here — that of a Côte d’Ivoire resolutely committed to the path of digital transformation as advocated by the President of the Republic, Alassane Ouattara,” he remarked.
The Digital Readiness Assessment, developed by UNDP, serves as a strategic framework to define data-driven digital priorities and identify opportunities that support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Meanwhile, the West Africa Digital Reference Project, funded by the Italian government, focuses on improving rural and remote connectivity, strengthening digital infrastructure, and building effective public digital systems.
These initiatives align with Côte d’Ivoire’s National Digital Development Strategy for 2025, which aims to achieve comprehensive connectivity, develop digital skills among civil servants and youth, and foster digital entrepreneurship. According to the telecom regulator, the country has already made significant progress, with over 30,240 kilometers of optical fiber installed, covering 94.86% of localities as of March 2024.
The DRA and Digital Flagship projects will further these efforts by identifying gaps in infrastructure and setting strategic priorities for harmonious digital development. They also aim to address the digital divide by ensuring underserved regions gain access to reliable internet connectivity, enhancing both digital inclusion and territorial equity.
As Côte d’Ivoire advances its digital agenda, these initiatives underscore the country’s determination to position itself as a leader in the digital economy, paving the way for sustainable development and inclusive growth.
