Côte d’Ivoire - Digital Economy

Last published date: 2025-05-19

Overview

Côte d’Ivoire is undergoing a notable digital transformation, driven by a national development strategy that positions Côte d’Ivoire as a digital hub within francophone West Africa and focuses on expanding digital infrastructure, increasing connectivity, promoting financial inclusion, and ensuring a secure digital environment. The government has made considerable investments in broadband networks, fiber-optic installations, and mobile connectivity to increase digital access. According to Statista, Internet penetration is estimated to reach 67% in 2025. Government initiatives aiming to address challenges related to data protection and digital security reflect ongoing efforts to support economic development and broader participation in the digital economy.

National Focus: Government Digital Economy/Growth/Transformation Plans or Strategies

The Ministry of Digital Transition and Digitalization is the primary government body responsible for overseeing Côte d’Ivoire’s digital economy. It leads initiatives to promote digital transformation, improve ICT infrastructure, and foster innovation across sectors. Key agencies under its purview include the Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications/TIC de Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI), which regulates telecommunications and ICT, and the Agence Nationale du Service Universel des Télécommunications/TIC (ANSUT), which implements and finances efforts to widen access to telecommunications. These entities collaborate on implementing policies, driving investments, and aligning the country’s policies with regional and global digital standards.[1]

The Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) regulates fintech across the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU), including Côte d’Ivoire, by managing payment systems and issuing guidelines for financial technologies. The Banking Commission of the West African Monetary Union (WAMU) assists in enforcing BCEAO directives through inspections, sanctions, revocations of licenses, and collaboration with national agencies.

National Digital Economy Development Strategy

Cote d’ Ivoire’s National Digital Economy Development Strategy serves as a roadmap to accelerate the country’s digital transformation and foster a sustainable digital economy. The strategy focuses on key pillars, including expanding digital infrastructure, promoting innovation, enhancing cybersecurity, and advancing digital literacy. It aims to increase internet penetration, support entrepreneurship in the ICT sector, and position Côte d’Ivoire as a digital hub within francophone West Africa. The strategy also emphasizes public-private partnerships to drive investments and improve service delivery in areas such as e-governance, e-commerce, and digital finance. By aligning with regional and international standards such as the African Development Bank’s Cote_d’Ivoire_E-Government_strengthening_support_project, the plan seeks to create an inclusive, competitive, and secure digital ecosystem that contributes to economic growth and social development.

Expansion of Digital Infrastructure: Developing broadband networks, improving rural connectivity, and preparing for 5G deployment to ensure widespread access to high-speed internet.
Promotion of Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Supporting startups and SMEs in the digital economy through initiatives like tech hubs, incubation programs, and financial incentives for ICT businesses.
Enhancement of Cybersecurity: Strengthening the legal and institutional framework for cybersecurity, including operationalizing the National Cybersecurity Agency and implementing robust data protection measures.
Advancement of Digital Literacy: Increasing digital skills training and integrating ICT education into school curricula to prepare the workforce for a technology-driven economy.
Development of E-Governance: Implementing digital platforms for public service delivery, such as online tax payments, e-health services, and e-administration, to improve efficiency and accessibility for citizens.

National Cybersecurity Strategy

Côte d’Ivoire’s National Cybersecurity Strategy 2021-2025 seeks to strengthen the country’s digital security framework. The strategy prioritizes the development of a robust legal and institutional framework, including the operationalization of a National Cybersecurity Agency to oversee and coordinate cybersecurity efforts across sectors. Established in 2024, this Agency is intended to protect critical infrastructure by implementing risk management practices and creating sector-specific CERTs (Computer Emergency Response Teams) for industries like banking and telecommunications. Furthermore, the strategy includes establishing a national operations security center (SOC) to monitor, detect, and respond to cyber threats in real-time, enhancing the country’s ability to prevent and mitigate cyberattacks.

A key component of the strategy is the emphasis on capacity building and international cooperation. The government plans to enhance cybersecurity education and awareness through specialized training programs for professionals and public campaigns to foster a culture of digital security. The strategy encourages partnerships with international organizations and neighboring countries to exchange knowledge, adopt best practices, and align with global cybersecurity standards.

Under the leadership of the new National Cybersecurity Agency, Cote d’Ivoire is developing a Cybersecurity Strategy that will run from 2026-2030. As a first step, the Agency has prioritized a comprehensive review of all laws, decrees, and regulations with a cybersecurity nexus.

E-Government Program

In addition to its National Cybersecurity Strategy and broadband development plans, the government of Côte d’Ivoire has implemented initiatives such as the e-Government program, aimed at digitizing public services to improve accessibility and efficiency. This includes creating digital platforms for tax payments, public records, and administrative services. Additionally, partnerships with international organizations, such as the World Bank’s support for the West Africa Regional Communications Infrastructure Project (WARCIP), are helping to enhance digital connectivity and foster regional integration in the ICT sector.[3]

Projected Digital Economy Growth

Côte d’Ivoire is experiencing significant growth in its digital economy, driven by advancements in technology infrastructure and favorable government policies. Several government initiatives have been launched to bolster connectivity, support local startups, and promote digital literacy. The rise of mobile money platforms has played a central role in financial inclusion, enabling more citizens to participate in the formal economy. Meanwhile, collaborative efforts between public and private sectors have contributed to the expansion of e-commerce, fintech, and ICT services.

General Trends

According to Statista, investment in digital infrastructure development is a cornerstone of Côte d’Ivoire’s strategy to position itself as a leading digital hub in francophone West Africa. Public and private entities have invested significant resources into expanding broadband networks, upgrading mobile technology to 4G, and preparing for the rollout of 5G. Companies such as Orange and MTN led the charge, enhancing their network coverage to provide high-speed internet to both urban and rural areas.
On the governmental front, initiatives aim to connect underserved regions, ensuring equitable access to digital services. Investment in digital infrastructure development is a cornerstone of Côte d’Ivoire’s strategy to position itself as a leading digital hub in francophone West Africa. Public and private entities have invested significant resources into expanding broadband networks, upgrading mobile technology to 4G, and preparing for the rollout of 5G. Companies such as Orange and MTN led the charge, enhancing their network coverage to provide high-speed internet to both urban and rural areas. On the governmental front, initiatives aim to connect underserved regions, ensuring equitable access to digital services.
The internet penetration rate has risen sharply from 2015. As of 2024, 31.9% of the population, nearly 22 million people, had access to the Internet, over double the 15% penetration rate of 2015.
Côte d’Ivoire has a well-established mobile connectivity network, with a 4G coverage rate of over 88%. The country has widespread 2G and 3G coverage and continues to expand its 4G infrastructure, with plans for future 5G deployment. Mobile connectivity plays a key role in facilitating access to digital services like mobile banking, e-commerce, and e-learning, contributing to broader economic and social development.
Revenue in Côte d’Ivoire’s e-commerce market is projected to reach $756m in 2025, with an expected annual growth rate of 7.48% through 2029. The sector is predominantly informal, with approximately 75% of e-commerce activities conducted by sellers on social media platforms via mobile internet.
Abidjan is Côte d’Ivoire’s leading tech hub, hosting numerous startups, innovation centers, and major tech companies. The city’s ecosystem is complemented by other growing hubs in cities like Yamoussoukro, where institutions such as the Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INPHB) contribute to research and development in technology.

Competitive Environment

Côte d’Ivoire’s digital economy operates within an increasingly competitive environment. Telecommunications providers like Orange, MTN, and Moov Africa dominate the market, competing to expand their customer base through enhanced network coverage, innovative services, and competitive pricing. This competition has also extended to the FinTech sector, where players like Orange Money, MTN Mobile Money, and emerging startups such as Wave are vying for dominance in mobile payments and digital financial services.

In Côte d’Ivoire’s digital economy, the e-commerce sector is driven by major players like Jumia, which has established itself as a leading platform for online shopping, offering a wide range of products from electronics to groceries. Local platforms such as Afrimarket and Yaatoo are also significant contributors, catering to the specific needs of Ivoirian consumers with localized payment and delivery solutions. These companies benefit from partnerships with mobile payment providers like Orange Money and MTN Mobile Money, which simplify transactions and foster trust in online shopping.

Additionally, the government’s push for regulatory reforms and digital infrastructure development has spurred increased interest from international investors and technology companies, further intensifying competition in the market.

Market Challenges

Côte d’Ivoire’s digital economy faces challenges such as insufficient infrastructure in rural areas, limiting access to high-speed internet and digital services. Regulatory hurdles, including delays in implementing comprehensive data protection laws and cybersecurity frameworks, create uncertainty for businesses seeking to operate in the country.

Data Privacy Regulations

Despite having a legal framework, such as Law No. 2013-450 on Personal Data Protection, a lack of awareness about these regulations among businesses and consumers has hindered widespread compliance. Delays in fully operationalizing enforcement mechanisms, such as appointing adequate personnel and resources within the Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications de Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI), have limited the law’s impact. These challenges are compounded by the rapid growth of digital services, which outpaces regulatory updates and creates gaps in addressing emerging data privacy concerns

Cross Border Data Flows

Côte d’Ivoire lacks comprehensive regulations that address data sovereignty and international data sharing. This gap creates uncertainty for businesses, particularly in sectors like cloud computing and e-commerce, where data often moves across jurisdictions. Additionally, differing data protection standards between Côte d’Ivoire and its trading partners complicate compliance, potentially deterring foreign investment. These challenges managing cross-border data flows highlight the need for harmonized policies and agreements that ensure data security while enabling the seamless flow of information across borders.

Cloud Computing & AI Regulation

The absence of specific laws governing data localization and cross-border data transfers raises concerns about compliance and security for businesses adopting cloud services. Similarly, the lack of clear guidelines on AI development and deployment, including ethical considerations and accountability for algorithmic decisions, creates uncertainty for stakeholders in the technology sector.

Cybersecurity

Côte d’Ivoire elaborated a 5-year National Strategy Plan for Cybersecurity to address this sector challenges and support its development. However, regulatory framework faces delays in fully implementing existing laws, such as operationalizing the Référentiel Général de Sécurité des Systèmes d’Information (RGSSI) and establishing a dedicated national cybersecurity agency. The lack of sector-specific guidelines and enforcement mechanisms hinders comprehensive protection for critical infrastructures, leaving gaps in the country’s overall cybersecurity readiness.

Compliance costs for cybersecurity remain a significant obstacle in Côte d’Ivoire, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).The high costs associated with implementing advanced cybersecurity measures often deter businesses from meeting regulatory standards, increasing vulnerabilities across sectors.

Côte d’Ivoire’s digital economy is constrained by a significant shortage of digital skills, with only 11% of tertiary education graduates having received formal digital training. This gap poses challenges for businesses and government agencies in implementing and managing advanced digital systems. The World Bank projects that by 2030, 35-45% of jobs in Côte d’Ivoire will require digital competencies, underscoring the need for comprehensive reforms in education and targeted capacity-building initiatives to equip the workforce with necessary digital skills.

Online Harms Regulations

According to Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications de Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI), the rapid expansion of internet access has outpaced the development of comprehensive policies regulating cyberbullying, misinformation, and exploitation. Existing frameworks, such as the Law No. 2013-451 on Cybercrime, address certain offenses but lack specificity regarding emerging online threats like digital harassment and the spread of harmful content on social media. Efforts to regulate online harms are further hindered by the lack of coordination between stakeholders, including government agencies, digital platforms, and civil society.

Standards Development

The Ivorian government has initiated efforts to develop national standards for digital security and infrastructure, such as the Référentiel Général de Sécurité des Systèmes d’Information (RGSSI), to ensure uniformity in cybersecurity practices across public and private sectors.Delaysin finalizing and operationalizing these standards, coupled with limited resources for enforcement, have hindered their widespread adoption. Aligning these standards with international norms while addressing the country’s specific needs poses a challenge, as it requires balancing global best practices with local capacity constraints.

Subnational Market Regulations

Subnational regulation challenges in Côte d’Ivoire stem from a lack of coordination between national and local authorities, particularly in implementing digital policies and cybersecurity measures. Local governments often lack the technical expertise and resources needed to enforce national regulations effectively, resulting in inconsistent application across regions. This disparity is further exacerbated by limited digital infrastructure in rural areas, which complicates the rollout of standardized policies.

Additionally, subnational authorities may face difficulties adapting national frameworks to local contexts, creating gaps in regulatory compliance and enforcement. Addressing these challenges requires capacity-building initiatives for local governments and a more integrated approach to policy implementation.

Market Entry

Companies entering Côte d’Ivoire’s digital economy face difficulties as explained in The Department of Commerce Country Commercial Guide Navigating complex regulations, including requirements for data protection compliance and sector-specific approvals. Market entry is heavily reliant on the availability of digital infrastructure, such as reliable internet and mobile connectivity, which may vary significantly between urban and rural areas. Entrants must contend with established players across sectors like telecommunications and fintech, requiring innovative strategies and significant investments to gain market.

Public Sector Procurement

Public Sector Procurement processes are governed by laws aimed at ensuring transparency, but challenges in implementation sometimes lead to inefficiencies and irregularities. Public procurement heavily focuses on infrastructure and digital economy projects, often involving international partnerships and funding. The government encourages local participation in procurement contracts, though small businesses face challenges meeting qualification standards. Efforts are ongoing to align public procurement regulations with international best practices to attract foreign investment and ensure fair competition. Procurement laws require strict adherence to competitive bidding and value-for-money principles, though enforcement can vary across agencies. The government has introduced e-procurement platforms to streamline processes, reduce corruption, and increase accountability in public sector contracting. Despite these digitalization efforts, limited technical capacity in procurement departments sometimes delays project timelines and affects the quality of contract execution.

Digital Trade Barriers

Digital trade in Côte d’Ivoire faces barriers such as inconsistent regulations on data localization and cross-border data flows, which create challenges for businesses operating across multiple jurisdictions. The absence of unified e-commerce standards and inadequate consumer protection laws hinder the seamless exchange of goods and services online, limiting the potential for international digital trade expansion.

Data Localization

Data localization requirements in Côte d’Ivoire mandate that certain data, particularly personal and sensitive information, be stored and processed within the country. Exceptions require prior authorization from the Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications de Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI). While intended to enhance data security and sovereignty, these requirements increase operational costs for businesses, especially multinational companies, as they must invest in local data centers or partner with domestic providers. This regulation can also deter foreign investment and restrict access to global cloud and data services, limiting the growth potential of sectors reliant on cross-border data exchanges. The lack of harmonization with international standards creates further compliance complexities for businesses operating in multiple jurisdictions, potentially isolating Côte d’Ivoire from the broader digital economy.

Technology Barriers

Many organizations, especially in traditional sectors such as banking and public administration, continue to rely on outdated infrastructure that lacks interoperability with modern digital systems. Upgrading legacy systems often involves high costs and technical challenges, discouraging small and medium-sized enterprises from participating in digital trade. The persistence of legacy systems exposes entities to cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

According to the UN Global Survey on Digital and Sustainable Trade Facilitation survey, insufficient patent and intellectual property (IP) protections in Côte d’Ivoire discourage innovation and deter foreign investment in technology-driven sectors. The lack of robust enforcement mechanisms and clear frameworks for protecting IP rights exposes businesses to risks of infringement, counterfeiting, and unauthorized replication of their products or services. Companies that rely on patented technologies may face difficulties in securing their rights and generating returns on innovation. The absence of effective IP protections can also hinder local innovators, as they lack incentives to develop and commercialize new technologies.

Barriers to Internet Services

While mobile networks cover much of the country, broadband access and high-speed internet availability are often absent in remote regions, limiting access to e-commerce, digital education, and financial services. High costs of deployment and maintenance in sparsely populated areas, coupled with lack of affordability for rural populations, exacerbate the digital divide. Addressing this gap requires targeted investments in rural connectivity infrastructure, public-private partnerships, and innovative solutions such as satellite internet or community Wi-Fi networks.

Spectrum allocation in Côte d’Ivoire is managed by the Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications/TIC de Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI) to ensure the efficient use of radio frequencies for telecommunications and other digital services.

The growing demand for spectrum, driven by mobile broadband expansion and upcoming 5G deployment plans, has created challenges in balancing resource allocation among competing stakeholders, including mobile operators, broadcasters, and emerging technologies. Although Côte d’Ivoire has awarded 240 MHz of spectrum, ahead of many other African nations, it still lags behind nations with more developed digital economies such as Singapore with 330 MHz awarded or Germany with 340 MHz awarded.

Traditional broadcasting companies are still awarded much of the valuable 470-694 band, often acting as inadvertent barriers to connectivity in indoor and sparsely populated areas. Additionally, delays in spectrum reallocation and high licensing fees can impede innovation and the rollout of advanced services. Developing a transparent, equitable, and forward-looking spectrum policy is essential to supporting the country’s digital transformation and ensuring access to next-generation connectivity.

Digital Trade Opportunities

Côte d’Ivoire offers growing digital trade opportunities fueled by expanding e-commerce, mobile financial services, and investments in broadband and data centers, accordring to AfroBarometer. As a member of ECOWAS, Côte d’Ivoire benefits from regional trade integration, and its push for digital transformation as well as its efforts to protect intellectual property supports innovation and cross-border collaboration. Emerging sectors like cloud computing and fintech provide new avenues for investment, positioning the country as a potential hub for digital trade in West Africa

Cross-Sector Enabling Technologies

Communications and Networking Technologies

Communications and Networking Technologies play a critical role in enabling cross-sector digital transformation in Côte d’Ivoire, providing the foundation for innovation and growth across industries. Advanced mobile networks, including 4G and the planned rollout of 5G, are driving improvements in speed, connectivity, and reliability.

The telecommunications sector is led by major players such as Orange Côte d’Ivoire, MTN Côte d’Ivoire, and Moov Africa, which collectively dominate the market. Orange, as the largest operator, has invested significantly in expanding its 4G coverage and digital services, including its Orange Digital Center, which supports innovation and entrepreneurship.

Investments to expand broadband infrastructure, such as fiber-optic, Submarine networks and rural connectivity projects, are bridging gaps in underserved areas, enhancing access to essential digital services. The integration of technologies like IoT (Internet of Things) and cloud-based networking solutions is also transforming industries by enabling smarter systems for logistics, agriculture, and urban management.

Advanced Computing

Côte d’Ivoire is still in its nascent stages, with limited notable implementations in areas like high-performance computing (HPC) or quantum computing. While there is growing interest in cloud computing and data analytics driven by the expansion of digital services, large-scale advanced computing projects remain sparse. Academic institutions, such as the Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INPHB), have the potential to lead research in advanced computing applications, but these efforts are yet to gain significant momentum. Currently, the focus is primarily on foundational digital infrastructure, with advanced computing development being an area for future growth.

Artificial Intelligence

Academic institutions, such as the Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INPHB), have the potential to foster AI research and development, though these initiatives remain at an early stage. Efforts to integrate AI into public services, such as health and education, are also beginning to surface, driven by global partnerships and donor-funded projects. While the full potential of AI is yet to be realized, ongoing investments in digital infrastructure and skills development could accelerate its adoption in the near future.

Sub-sea cables

Sub-sea cables provide the backbone for international internet connectivity and data exchange. The country is connected to multiple major submarine cable systems, including the Africa Coast to Europe (ACE) and the West Africa Cable System (WACS), which enhance internet bandwidth and reduce latency for users and businesses. The ongoing expansion of sub-sea cable projects across Africa, such as the 2Africa cable expected to land in the country, aims to further enhance connectivity and support Côte d’Ivoire’s aspirations to become a digital hub in the region and strengthen the country’s integration into the global digital network. Cote d’Ivoire is actively seeking ways to increase its connectivity to neighbors, as well as to diversify its sub-sea cable connections, to offer bandwidth redundancy options in the event of disruptions.

Specific Industry Sub-Sectors

Financial Technologies

Côte d’Ivoire’s financial technology sector has notable activity in subsectors such as mobile payments, digital lending, and e-commerce payment solutions, with mobile money accounts held by 40% of adults in 2021, up from 34% in 2017 and 24% in 2014. This expansion has been accompanied by a rise in mobile money transactions, which increased from 4.5 trillion CFA (approximately $7.7 billion) in 2016 to 6.3 trillion CFA (around $10.8 billion) in 2018, Mobile payment platforms dominate, enabling financial inclusion through services like money transfers and bill payments, particularly in rural areas. Substantial growth is also seen in digital lending platforms, which provide small loans to individuals and businesses, often without requiring traditional banking infrastructure.

Competition in the sector is intensifying as companies seek to expand their market share by offering lower transaction fees, seamless integration with other digital platforms, and tailored solutions for underserved populations. Mobile money platforms facilitate financial inclusion by providing services such as money transfers, bill payments, and savings. In addition, emerging fintech startups are introducing innovative solutions to address gaps in digital payments, e-commerce transactions, and SME financing.

The regulatory environment has also played a crucial role in shaping the competitive landscape, with frameworks designed to ensure the security and efficiency of digital financial services while fostering innovation,

Digital Media and Entertainment

The growth of internet penetration and mobile connectivity in Côte d’Ivoire has facilitated the rise of streaming platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and regional services, offering a diverse array of movies, series, and music videos tailored to local and global audiences. Local artists and content creators are increasingly leveraging these platforms to reach wider audiences and generate revenue.

Online gaming is gaining popularity, particularly among the youth, with mobile games leading the trend due to the widespread use of smartphones. Platforms are supported by initiatives such as eSports tournaments organized by local gaming communities and telecommunications companies like MTN to promote gaming culture.

Côte d’Ivoire has a thriving digital content creation scene, especially in areas like music, media advertising, social media advertising and video streaming. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook are widely used for sharing content, while local creators monetize through brand collaborations, sponsorships, and direct fan support. This has also fostered the emergence of digital marketing agencies and influencer management firms catering to this growing sector.

Digital Economy Trade Events

Cyber Africa Forum

When: Annually in April
Where: Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire
Overview: “As a platform for exchanges and contacts, the Cyber Africa Forum brings together public and private stakeholders in the sector each year with the aim of providing a coherent response to the cyber risks facing Africa today. The aim is to address these issues in a transversal manner through governance, security, finance, human resources, communication and digital.
Website: https://www.cyberafricaforum.com/

Le Salon International du Contenu Audiovisuel

When: Annually in late October to mid-November
Where: Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire
Overview: Conference activities will heavily seek to “address emerging industry trends, such as media convergence and the impact of digital platforms on content creation. They will offer participants a platform for exchanges and sharing experiences on issues arising from the main theme, as well as economic perspectives for the audiovisual sector and the financing of audiovisual creation.”
Website: https://sica-abidjan.com/