• Guinea launched Simandou 2040’s third pillar to boost digital infrastructure
• Focus areas include public service digitalization, connectivity, and tech sovereignty
• Over 12,000 km of fiber deployed; AI, education, and data hosting prioritized

On the sidelines of the Transform Africa Summit (TAS) 2025 in Conakry, the Guinean government launched the third pillar of its Simandou 2040 program on Thursday, November 13. This new phase focuses on strengthening transportation, improving digital connectivity, and broadening access to essential services.

The pillar aims to position digital technologies as a key driver of national competitiveness. The objective extends beyond merely adopting digital tools to building a sovereign technological foundation: reinforced infrastructure, an updated regulatory framework, and redesigned public services intended to support growth, administrative efficiency, and inclusion.

The launch follows a period during which Guinea multiplied structural projects in the digital sector. The country established a Tier III Data Center for local hosting of public data, thereby strengthening its technological autonomy. Furthermore, the national.GN domain name was restored, signaling a commitment to consolidating the country's digital identity. These efforts include the progressive digitalization of the administration, with solutions such as FUGAS for public employee management and TELEMO, the public procurement platform launched on November 12 through collaboration with Rwanda.

In terms of infrastructure, Guinea has significantly expanded its connectivity capacity, deploying over 12,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable across the territory. The country is also investing in digital skills development through the creation of Digital Spaces, training programs, and school inclusion initiatives, including the GIGA project which has already connected more than 500 educational institutions. The design of a national technology park and a recent ecosystem assessment for artificial intelligence, conducted with the UNDP, are contributing to the elaboration of a national AI strategy.

The launch of Simandou 2040’s Third Pillar is expected to mark a new stage in structuring the overall project and developing a cohesive digital ecosystem. By combining infrastructure, modernizing public services, and strengthening skills, the initiative is positioned to reinforce Guinea's technological sovereignty, stimulate economic attractiveness, and prepare its youth for emerging digital careers.

Samira Njoya