By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
Côte d’Ivoire has set an
ambitious target of developing nearly 500 sustainable digital companies by
2031, as the government steps up efforts to position technology, innovation and
artificial intelligence at the centre of its economic transformation.
The target was announced by
the Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, Djibril
Ouattara, during the official opening of the second edition of the Ivoire Tech
Forum 2026, where Prime Minister Robert Beugré Mambé reaffirmed the government's
commitment to making digital technology a driver of economic growth, innovation
and job creation.
Under the initiative, the
government plans to identify and analyse 1,000 digital projects between 2027
and 2029, with the aim of supporting the emergence of nearly 500 sustainable
companies by 2031.
The strategy will focus on
three key areas: the recognition of start-ups, support for their development
and improved access to financing.
To advance these objectives,
the government will leverage initiatives including Ivoire Tech Next 15, Ivoire
Tech Scale Up and the Start-up Clinic.
Through these programmes,
the government intends to structure a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem capable
of transforming innovative ideas into competitive companies that create
economic value and sustainable employment.
The initiative forms part of
Côte d’Ivoire's broader ambition to strengthen its position in the African
digital economy by supporting local entrepreneurs and developing a pipeline of
technology-driven businesses.
The government says its
ambition is clear: to bring out the digital champions of tomorrow and
strengthen Côte d’Ivoire's place in the African digital economy.
