Côte d’Ivoire

Internet governance in Côte d’Ivoire is shaped by a combination of governmental policies, regulatory frameworks, and stakeholder engagement aimed at ensuring a secure, accessible, and robust digital environment. The country’s approach to internet governance reflects its broader goals of digital transformation and economic development.

Key Institutions and Stakeholders

The Ministry of Digital Economy and Postal Services (MENUP) is responsible for formulating and implementing national policies related to the digital economy, including internet governance. This ministry plays a central role in setting the strategic direction for the country’s digital transformation initiatives.

The Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications/TIC de Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI) is the regulatory body overseeing telecommunications and ICT in Côte d’Ivoire. ARTCI ensures compliance with regulations, promotes competition, and protects consumer rights. Its role is crucial in maintaining a balanced and fair internet ecosystem.

Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are essential players in the internet governance landscape, providing critical internet services to individuals and businesses. Their operations are regulated to ensure quality service and fair access to the internet for all users.

Civil society and the private sector also play significant roles in internet governance. These stakeholders contribute to policy discussions, advocate for user rights, and drive innovation within the digital space. Their involvement is vital for a holistic approach to internet governance that addresses various perspectives and needs.

Key Areas of Focus

1. Digital Inclusion and Access Efforts are being made to bridge the digital divide by expanding internet access to underserved and rural areas. Policies aim to enhance digital literacy and ensure that all citizens can benefit from the digital economy.
2. Cybersecurity With the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure, cybersecurity has become a priority. Côte d’Ivoire is working on strengthening its cybersecurity frameworks to protect against threats and ensure the safety of online activities.
3. Data Protection and Privacy Ensuring the privacy and protection of personal data is a critical aspect of internet governance. Regulations are in place to safeguard user data and promote trust in digital services.
4. Regulatory Environment A clear and transparent regulatory framework is essential for the growth of the digital economy. Efforts are being made to streamline regulations, encourage investment, and foster innovation.

Côte d’Ivoire is actively pursuing digital strategies to transform its economy, enhance public services, and improve the quality of life for its citizens. These strategies are aimed at fostering innovation, ensuring inclusive digital access, and creating a sustainable digital ecosystem that supports economic growth and social development.

Key Components of Digital Strategies

National Digital Development Plan. The government has outlined a comprehensive National Digital Development Plan that focuses on expanding digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, and fostering innovation in the technology sector. This plan serves as a roadmap for the country’s digital transformation efforts.

Digital Infrastructure Expansion. Expanding and modernizing digital infrastructure is a top priority. Efforts are being made to improve broadband connectivity, increase internet penetration, and ensure reliable and affordable access to digital services across urban and rural areas. This includes investments in fiber optic networks and mobile broadband technologies.

E-Government Initiatives. Côte d’Ivoire is leveraging digital technologies to enhance public service delivery through e-government initiatives. These initiatives aim to streamline government processes, improve transparency, and provide citizens with easier access to services such as health, education, and social welfare through digital platforms.

Digital Literacy and Education Promoting digital literacy is essential for maximizing the benefits of digital transformation. The government is implementing programs to integrate ICT into the education system, provide digital skills training, and ensure that citizens are equipped to participate in the digital economy.

Cybersecurity in Côte d’Ivoire has become a significant focus as the country continues its digital transformation journey. With increasing reliance on digital infrastructure and services, ensuring the security of cyberspace is critical for protecting national interests, businesses, and citizens.

National Cybersecurity Framework

Côte d’Ivoire has developed a robust national cybersecurity framework aimed at addressing the various challenges posed by cyber threats. This framework includes legal, regulatory, and institutional measures designed to enhance the country’s cyber resilience.

1. National Cybersecurity Strategy The government has implemented a National Cybersecurity Strategy that outlines the strategic objectives and actions required to protect the nation’s digital infrastructure. This strategy emphasizes the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors, as well as international cooperation.
2. Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications/TIC de Côte d’Ivoire (ARTCI) ARTCI plays a pivotal role in regulating and overseeing cybersecurity measures in the country. It is responsible for implementing policies, monitoring compliance, and promoting best practices among stakeholders.
3. Legal and Regulatory Measures Côte d’Ivoire has enacted several laws and regulations to address cybersecurity issues. These include laws on electronic transactions, data protection, and cybercrime, which provide a legal framework for prosecuting cyber offenses and protecting personal data.

Key Initiatives and Programs

1. Capacity Building and Awareness The government is actively involved in capacity-building initiatives to enhance the skills of cybersecurity professionals. This includes training programs, workshops, and awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public and private sectors about cyber threats and best practices.
2. Incident Response and Management Establishing robust incident response mechanisms is crucial for addressing cyber threats. Côte d’Ivoire has set up a national Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) that coordinates responses to cybersecurity incidents and provides support to affected organizations.
3. Public-Private Partnerships The government encourages collaboration between public and private sectors to strengthen cybersecurity measures. Partnerships with technology companies, academic institutions, and international organizations are essential for sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise.
4. International Cooperation Given the global nature of cyber threats, Côte d’Ivoire actively participates in international cybersecurity forums and collaborates with other countries to share intelligence, best practices, and technical assistance.

Côte d’Ivoire is in the process of formulating a National AI Strategy to guide the adoption and development of AI technologies. This strategy focuses on creating a conducive environment for AI innovation, addressing ethical considerations, and ensuring that AI benefits all sectors of society. The government aims to integrate AI into its national development agenda, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and infrastructure development.