Côte d'Ivoire digital governance and infrastructure efforts

Côte d’Ivoire is pursuing several initiatives to strengthen its digital infrastructure and international influence in telecommunications governance.

In late August 2026, a national delegation led by Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation Djibril Ouattara traveled to the World Telecommunication Policy Forum in the Bahamas to campaign for a seat on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council. The candidacy focuses on digital inclusion, technological innovation, and reducing the digital divide.

By mid-September 2026, the government expanded its domestic digital agenda by officially authorizing the allocation of 5G frequencies to telecommunications operators. This move is part of a 2026–2028 acceleration plan covering connectivity, cybersecurity, and ethical artificial intelligence. Simultaneously, the country formally submitted its candidacy for the ITU Council for the 2027–2030 period, with Minister Ouattara advocating for African unity in global digital policy ahead of the upcoming elections in Doha, Qatar.