• The government identified five priorities, including internet expansion, e-revenue collection and cybersecurity strengthening.

• The 2026 digital budget rises to CFA83.2 billion ($145.5 million) from CFA68.6 billion in 2025.

• Internet penetration reached about 40.7% in 2025, highlighting significant room for expansion.

Côte d’Ivoire aims to accelerate its digital transformation in 2026 by focusing on five strategic priorities: expanding internet access, digitizing public revenue collection, developing digital skills and inclusion, strengthening cybersecurity, and promoting technological innovation.

Djibril Ouattara presented these priorities on March 17, in Abidjan during the budget session of the Ministry of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation.

Rentrée budgétaire 2026 :Budget : 83,275 milliards FCFA (+37 %)
5 axes stratégiques :
📌Accès à Internet
📌Recettes de l'État
📌Inclusion numérique
📌Cybersécurité
📌Innovation technologique
Djibril Ouattara : La « juste dépense » comme boussole#TransitionNumérique pic.twitter.com/DJRAnJkwwf

— MTNIT (@MTNIT_CI) March 18, 2026

The ministry allocated CFA83.2 billion ($145.5 million) for 2026. It increased the budget from CFA68.6 billion in 2025.  The government intends to position digital technology as a central lever for economic modernization and public service improvement. In particular, authorities plan to expand electronic payments to optimize state revenue collection while supporting the emergence of an innovative and inclusive ecosystem.

These priorities reflect increasing digital adoption across the country. According to DataReportal, internet penetration in Ivory Coast reached about 40.7% at the end of 2025. However, this level still indicates significant growth potential, especially in rural areas that remain underserved. At the same time, the expansion of digital services increases exposure to cyber risks. Cyberattacks targeting governments and businesses continue to rise across the African continent.

In this context, authorities consider cybersecurity a strategic priority to build trust in the digital economy. Therefore, the government seeks to establish a secure framework that supports the development of online services, strengthens investment attractiveness, and sustains the growth of digital usage.

Despite these ambitions, the effectiveness of implementation will determine the success of the strategy. Execution will depend on efficient budget management and strong coordination between public and private stakeholders. Moreover, progress will rely on addressing persistent challenges related to inclusion, skills development, and digital trust.

This article was initially published in French by Samira Njoya

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum