en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Electronic Communications and Postal Regulatory Authority (ARCEP) of Burkina Faso has launched a four-day national workshop in Bobo-Dioulasso, with the core objective of improving the deployment standards and service quality of the country's electronic communications networks by strengthening coordination with local authorities.
Held from June 29 to July 2, 2026, the workshop brought together approximately 100 participants, including officials from ARCEP and various local governments. Sombéniwendé Nikiema, Secretary General of Houet Province, delivered a speech on behalf of the Governor of the Hauts-Bassins Region at the opening ceremony, reaffirming the commitment of local authorities to advancing the national digital transformation agenda.
The workshop aims to make digital infrastructure a driver of economic growth, aligning with the government's overall strategy to modernize public administration and accelerate economic development through digital technologies.
At the opening ceremony, Wendlassida Patrice Compaore, Executive Secretary of ARCEP, stated that the foundation of reliable digital services lies in the successful deployment of physical telecommunications infrastructure. He noted that the expansion of mobile network base stations still faces resistance—some communities oppose it due to environmental concerns and misinformation, which may delay infrastructure projects and affect network quality.
To address these obstacles, ARCEP has established closer partnerships with several local governments, including Bitou, Koudougou, Lounbila, Ouahigouya, Ouagadougou, Reo, and Bobo-Dioulasso. The regulator encourages local leaders to act as "digital ambassadors," playing a role in mobilizing communities, raising awareness of the value of telecommunications infrastructure, and facilitating network deployment.
The workshop agenda covers key issues affecting the sector, including the legal and institutional framework for electronic communications, standards for non-ionizing radiation and environmental regulations, administrative procedures for occupying public land, and the role of the Universal Access and Service Fund (FASU) in expanding digital inclusion.
ARCEP stated that the fundamental purpose of the workshop is to establish stronger partnerships between national and local authorities, ensuring that residents across Burkina Faso have access to reliable, affordable, and high-quality digital services, while supporting the country's long-term digital development goals.
