• Orange executives say digital transformation strengthens competitiveness for Ivorian companies.
• Cyberattacks on Ivorian SMEs reached 2.8 million incidents in 2022, up more than 39% year-on-year.
• Orange Business CI offers cybersecurity diagnostics, penetration testing and managed security services to address rising risks.

Digital transformation now represents a strategic lever of competitiveness for Ivorian companies. Executives delivered that message during the 20th edition of “Orange Business Live,” which took place on Feb. 19 under the theme “Innovation and Digital Transformation: Accelerating the Competitiveness of Ivorian Companies.”

Pacôme Boidi, senior manager for B2B coordination, and Fitzgerald Bony, deputy director of B2B operations at Orange CI, led the event.

Executives said digital solutions improve productivity, lower operating costs and optimize internal processes. They urged local companies to integrate innovation into their core strategies to strengthen their positioning in an increasingly competitive market.

However, Fitzgerald Bony said companies must adapt digital priorities to sector dynamics. He said the absence of digital tools does not necessarily penalize companies in the short term if competitors have not adopted them. He added that companies must align with digital standards in sectors where competitors already use such tools to preserve competitiveness.

Pacôme Boidi stressed that global connectivity has expanded competition beyond national borders. “The competition is on. Know your industry, dare to take the plunge, and get involved in transformative projects. Try to be that strategic compass, and remember that Orange is here to support you,” he said.aid, addressing Ivorian businesses.

Digital Transformation Challenges: Human Factor and Cybersecurity

Speakers said managerial alignment and change management determine the success of digital transformation projects. They said companies must define a clear strategic vision and demonstrate strong leadership to sustain transformation efforts. They said value depends not on the tool itself but on its ability to address a concrete and priority business need. They recommended a gradual approach supported by quick and measurable results to secure staff engagement.

Speakers also highlighted the role of young graduates in the evolving ecosystem. They said training, startup support and continuous skills development strengthen competitiveness. They said massive open online courses (MOOCs), university partnerships and structured internships can build a more resilient digital ecosystem.

However, executives acknowledged that digitalization exposes companies to new cybersecurity risks. In a study published in October 2025, Orange Business CI said small and medium-sized enterprises face heightened exposure to cyberattacks. The study said more than 27,500 Ivorian SMEs suffered 2.8 million cyberattacks in 2022, which marked an increase of more than 39% compared with the previous year. The study said 81% of SMEs have never provided or received cybersecurity training, while 66% never discuss cybersecurity at board level.

In 2024, National Information Systems Security Agency recorded more than 12,100 cybercrime cases. The agency said cybercrime has increased steadily for several years. The agency said threats affect individuals, companies, local authorities and state institutions. The agency said cybercriminals exploit accelerated digital transformation, weak cybersecurity culture and the growing use of smartphones, connected devices and online services.

Against that backdrop, Orange Business CI offers cybersecurity tools that cover multiple layers of corporate protection. The company provides assessment services such as cyber diagnostics, which identify organizational and technical vulnerabilities and define action plans. The company also provides “pentest” services that conduct technical intrusion tests and deliver detailed audit reports.

The company complements those services with operational solutions. The offer includes a managed security services provider (MSSP) cloud platform that secures internet access, mobile threat protection (MTP) tools, a server and workstation monitoring and incident response solution (MicroSOC), and a mobile device management (MDM) service that controls and secures professional data on smartphones. The company said the integrated approach addresses the diversification of cyber risks facing businesses.

This article was initially published in French by Isaac K. Kassouwi

Adapted in English by Ange J.A de Berry Quenum