en.Wedoany.com Reported - Djibril Ouattara, Minister of Digital Transformation and Technological Innovation of Côte d'Ivoire, announced during the government-organized "Gouv’Talk" online series event on June 11, 2026, that satellite internet provider Starlink plans to begin operations in the country in July 2026, with nationwide 5G deployment set to launch in the same month.

Starlink has obtained a 12-month temporary license to provide fixed high-speed satellite internet services nationwide, with a focus on bridging connectivity gaps in previously underserved rural areas, schools, and healthcare facilities. Regarding 5G deployment, Ouattara confirmed it will begin in July, gradually covering cities with populations exceeding 25,000, with all operators having equipped their networks in preparation.

Although Côte d'Ivoire's internet coverage has reached 95%, encompassing fiber optics, fixed broadband, and mobile services from 2G to 4G, a smartphone penetration rate of approximately 40% remains a key challenge. The government plans to achieve an 80% penetration rate by providing affordable devices, particularly in rural areas. Ouattara added that over the next four years, towns with populations exceeding 800 will gain GSM service coverage.

These announcements are part of Côte d'Ivoire's broader digital strategy, supported by 40 flagship projects under seven pillars, including connectivity, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and e-governance.

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