Côte d’Ivoire’s Digital Minister marks first 100 days in office

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

Côte d’Ivoire’s Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation, Djibril Ouattara, has marked his first 100 days in office by outlining progress and priorities aimed at accelerating the country’s digital transformation.

Speaking on May 1, which coincides with Labour Day celebrations, the minister described his initial period in office as focused on action, consultation, and strategic alignment to drive the government’s digital agenda.

He expressed gratitude to President Alassane Ouattara and senior government leadership for their support, noting that his mandate is guided by a national vision to position digital technology as a key driver of productivity and economic transformation.

Ouattara said his first steps included extensive consultations with key institutions across the digital ecosystem, including regulatory bodies, state agencies, and technology institutions, in order to better understand operational realities and challenges before implementing reforms.

He also engaged with development partners, donors, and private sector operators to strengthen collaboration and support innovation-driven growth within the sector.

According to the minister, the government has since developed a structured strategy built around seven priority areas, including expanding broadband infrastructure, accelerating the digitalisation of public services, supporting startup financing, strengthening cybersecurity, promoting inclusive artificial intelligence, enhancing digital financial services, and building digital skills capacity.

He emphasised that the approach is designed to deliver measurable outcomes and improve the daily lives of citizens, while advancing Côte d’Ivoire’s ambitions for technological sovereignty.

The minister also paid tribute to workers across the country, highlighting their role in supporting national development and the ongoing digital transformation process.