(Ecofin Agency) - Ivorian telecom operators are expected to provide nationwide coverage, yet some areas are still left out. The government is stepping up pressure to bridge the gap as it pushes forward with its digital transformation plans.

Telecom operators Orange, MTN, and Moov Africa have committed to deploying around 240 small-scale radio sites across Côte d’Ivoire to improve nationwide network coverage. The country’s telecom regulator, ARTCI, announced the initiative on February 20.

#CommuniquéDePresse ?#artcitic #orangeci #moovafricaci #mtnci pic.twitter.com/NNUqa044VN

— ARTCI (@artcitic) February 23, 2025

The project stems from financial penalties imposed on the operators in 2021 for failing to meet service quality standards. Orange was fined CFA7 billion ($11.2 million), while MTN and Moov Africa were hit with penalties of CFA3.27 billion and CFA2.9 billion, respectively. Instead of paying the fines, the operators signed agreements to invest in network expansion—Moov Africa and Orange in November 2024, and MTN in February 2025.

This initiative aligns with the Ivorian government’s plan to connect 240 villages in 2025 under the second phase of the National Rural Connectivity Program (PNCR). "It reflects the commitment of the government—through the Ministry of Digital Transition and Digitalization—as well as ARTCI, ANSUT, and telecom operators to accelerate digital inclusion and ensure quality access to electronic communications for all," the telecom regulator stated.

As of 2023, 4G coverage in Côte d’Ivoire reached 91.5% of the population, while 2G and 3G networks covered 98.7% and 98.1%, respectively, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). However, GSMA’s 2024 Mobile Connectivity Index gave the country a network coverage score of 85.2%.

The government has allocated CFA18 billion for the second phase of the PNCR, while total fines converted into network investments amount to approximately CFA13.2 billion. However, ensuring these investments are effectively implemented remains crucial, especially since operators have historically been reluctant to expand in rural areas due to low profitability. Notably, it was this lack of investment that led to the initial penalties. ARTCI stated that multiple monitoring and evaluation committees have been set up to oversee the rollout.