Côte d’Ivoire has officially approved Starlink, the satellite internet service operated by SpaceX, to begin commercial operations across the country, marking a major milestone in its digital transformation agenda. The announcement was accompanied by the approval of a US$170 million national data centre project, strengthening the country’s ambition to become a leading technology hub in West Africa.
The announcements were made during a visit to Abidjan by U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank R. Garcia, who said the projects reflect growing technological and commercial cooperation between the United States and Côte d’Ivoire.
Starlink to Expand Internet Access
With the government’s final authorisation now in place, Starlink will begin offering high-speed satellite internet services throughout Côte d’Ivoire, including remote communities that have long struggled with limited broadband connectivity.
Unlike traditional fibre or mobile internet networks, Starlink uses a constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites to provide internet coverage, making it possible to connect schools, hospitals, businesses, and households in areas where conventional infrastructure is unavailable or too expensive to deploy.
Government officials believe the service will improve access to online education, digital healthcare, e-commerce, financial services, and communication, particularly in rural parts of the country.
$170 Million Data Centre Approved
Alongside Starlink’s launch, the Ivorian government approved a US$170 million digital infrastructure project led by American technology company Cybastion and financed by the U.S. Export-Import Bank.
The project will establish a sovereign national data centre, develop a government digital services platform, and deploy a smart border surveillance system designed to modernise public administration and strengthen cybersecurity.
Technology giant Cisco will also participate in the initiative, providing expertise and digital solutions to support the country’s expanding technology ecosystem.
Digital Economy Receives Major Boost
The latest investments form part of Côte d’Ivoire’s broader strategy to accelerate digital transformation and attract international technology companies.
Authorities hope improved digital infrastructure will encourage innovation, create employment opportunities, strengthen government services, and attract startups and technology investors to the country.
The projects are also expected to improve internet reliability for businesses, support digital payments, and increase access to cloud computing and data storage services for both public and private institutions.
Beyond Technology
The digital agreements were announced alongside additional American investments in healthcare and logistics.
A US$293 million healthcare infrastructure programme will support the construction and modernisation of medical facilities across Côte d’Ivoire, while U.S. logistics company NTELX will deploy advanced truck coordination technology at the Port of Abidjan to improve cargo movement and reduce congestion at one of West Africa’s busiest ports. Together, the projects represent more than US$460 million in planned investments.
Strengthening Côte d’Ivoire’s Digital Future
Officials say the approval of Starlink and the national data centre demonstrates growing confidence in Côte d’Ivoire’s economy and its digital ambitions.
As internet demand continues to rise across Africa, the country is positioning itself as a regional leader in digital infrastructure by expanding connectivity, modernising government services, and encouraging private sector investment.
If successfully implemented, the projects are expected to improve internet access for millions of people, strengthen cybersecurity, enhance digital public services, and reinforce Côte d’Ivoire’s position as one of West Africa’s fastest-growing technology markets.
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