Côte d’Ivoire Unveils Next Phase of Digital Growth with Starlink and 5G Expansion
June 17th 2026
Côte d’Ivoire is set to take a significant step forward in its digital transformation journey, with satellite internet provider Starlink scheduled to commence operations in July 2026 and the country’s 5G rollout beginning during the same period.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, Djibril Ouattara, during the government’s Gouv’Talk online dialogue series held on 11 June 2026.
Starlink has received a 12-month provisional license to deliver fixed high-speed satellite internet services nationwide. The initiative is expected to improve connectivity in underserved areas, particularly rural communities, schools, and healthcare facilities that currently lack reliable internet access.
Ouattara also confirmed that the deployment of 5G services will start in July, with coverage gradually extending to cities with populations exceeding 25,000. According to the minister, all telecommunications operators have already upgraded their infrastructure in preparation for the launch.
While Côte d’Ivoire currently enjoys an internet coverage rate of approximately 95% through fiber-optic, fixed broadband, and mobile networks ranging from 2G to 4G, smartphone adoption remains relatively low at around 40%. To address this challenge, the government aims to increase smartphone penetration to 80% by improving access to affordable devices, particularly in rural regions.
The minister further revealed plans to expand GSM coverage to all localities with more than 800 inhabitants within the next four years, supporting broader digital inclusion efforts across the country.
These initiatives form part of Côte d’Ivoire’s national digital development strategy, which encompasses 40 flagship projects across seven strategic pillars, including connectivity, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and e-government services.
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