Ivory Coast senate unanimously approves cybersecurity and e-government bill

In a decisive move to strengthen Ivory Coast digital infrastructure, the Senate on Monday, June 16, 2025, unanimously adopted a strategic cybersecurity bill presented by Minister of Digital Transition and Digitalization Kalil Konaté. The legislation ratifies Ordinance No. 2024-950 and represents a critical advancement in implementing the country's National Cybersecurity Strategy. 

The comprehensive bill modernizes the legal framework for digital governance by updating key provisions of Ordinance No. 2017-500 concerning electronic exchanges between citizens and government agencies. It simultaneously repeals outdated elements of the 2013 electronic transactions law, streamlining regulations to meet current technological demands. 

Minister Konaté emphasized the legislation's dual focus: enhancing cybersecurity protections while accelerating the government's digital transformation. The unanimous Senate approval reflects broad political consensus on the urgency of cybersecurity modernization. Legal experts highlight how the bill addresses critical gaps in digital governance, particularly in securing sensitive data exchanges between citizens and state institutions. 

This legislative milestone comes as the country experiences rapid growth in digital service adoption, with government portals handling increasing volumes of sensitive citizen data. The updated provisions establish clearer standards for authentication, data protection, and secure digital transactions across all public administration platforms. 

Observers note the bill's passage demonstrates the government's commitment to creating a secure, efficient digital ecosystem that protects both national interests and citizen privacy.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye