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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.

Internet governance in Morocco encompasses the frameworks, policies, and regulations that manage the development, use, and security of the internet within the country. The Moroccan government, alongside private sector entities, civil society organisations, and international partners, plays a crucial role in shaping and implementing these frameworks to promote digital inclusion, economic growth, and cybersecurity.

Key Components

Regulatory Framework

ANRT (National Telecommunications Regulatory Agency): ANRT is the central body responsible for regulating telecommunications and internet services in Morocco. It ensures compliance with national regulations, manages the allocation of radio frequencies, and promotes competition among telecom operators. ANRT’s regulatory role includes monitoring market practices, approving tariffs, and protecting consumer rights.

Telecommunications Law: Morocco’s Law No. 24-96, enacted in 1997, serves as the foundational legal framework for telecommunications. It has been amended multiple times to address evolving market needs and technological advancements. This law covers licensing requirements, the rights and obligations of service providers, and provisions for consumer protection.

Digital Infrastructure

Broadband Expansion: The Moroccan government has prioritised the expansion of broadband infrastructure to increase internet penetration. The ‘Maroc Digital 2020’ strategy aimed to provide high-speed internet access to 100% of the population. This involves extensive deployment of fiber optic networks, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

5G Implementation: Morocco is preparing for the introduction of 5G technology. The ANRT has initiated steps for the auctioning of 5G spectrum licenses, with the expectation that 5G will enhance internet speeds, support smart city initiatives, and boost industrial digitisation.

Morocco has implemented several ambitious digital strategies to transform its economy, enhance governance, and improve public services through the integration of digital technologies.

The first significant strategy was Maroc Numeric 2013, launched in 2009. This strategy aimed to position Morocco as a regional digital hub by 2013. Its objectives included improving public service delivery through the digitisation of government services, supporting the growth of ICT companies, and enhancing broadband infrastructure. The strategy also focused on integrating ICT in education and workforce training. Specific programs such as the GENIE program aimed at equipping schools with digital tools and training teachers. Other initiatives like watiqa.ma facilitated online access to administrative services. This strategy also emphasised legal frameworks for digital trust, including data protection laws and the establishment of the Moroccan Computer Emergency Response Team (maCERT).

Building on the progress of Maroc Numeric 2013, the Maroc Digital 2020 strategy was launched to further establish Morocco as a competitive digital economy by 2020. This strategy sought to expand digital public services, improve access to digital technologies in rural areas, and encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. It also continued efforts to enhance cybersecurity and prepare for the rollout of 5G technology. Initiatives under this strategy aimed to bridge the digital divide and support digital startups and SMEs through funding and incubation programs.

The latest Digital Morocco 2030 strategy aims to solidify the country’s position as a digital economy hub by fostering startups, enhancing public service digitisation, and developing a skilled digital workforce. Key goals include creating 270,000 jobs, supporting AI and cloud infrastructure, and improving connectivity in rural areas. It also aims to train 100,000 digital professionals annually, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all citizens.

Morocco has recognised the critical importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding its digital infrastructure and data. As a result, the country has developed a comprehensive national cybersecurity strategy that addresses various aspects of digital security. This strategy focuses on creating a robust legal and regulatory framework, establishing specialised institutions, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and preparedness.

The cornerstone of this strategy is the establishment of a national cybersecurity agency tasked with overseeing and coordinating all cybersecurity efforts across different sectors. This agency plays a pivotal role in implementing the national strategy, ensuring that all public and private entities adhere to the prescribed cybersecurity standards and practices.

Legislative Framework

To support its cybersecurity strategy, Morocco has enacted several laws designed to enhance the security of its information systems and protect personal data. Law No. 05-20 on Cybersecurity provides the legal basis for protecting critical infrastructure and mandates that organisations implement specific security measures. This law also requires organisations to report cybersecurity incidents to the relevant authorities, thereby facilitating a coordinated response to cyber threats.

Additionally, Law No. 09-08 on the protection of personal data sets out the requirements for handling individuals’ information securely. This law aims to protect citizens’ privacy and ensure that their data is processed in accordance with strict security standards.

Institutional Framework

The Directorate General of Information Systems Security (DGSSI) is the primary body responsible for defining and implementing Morocco’s national policies on information systems security. The DGSSI works closely with various government agencies and private sector entities to ensure that cybersecurity measures are effectively implemented and maintained.

Another key institution is the Moroccan Computer Emergency Response Team (maCERT), which is responsible for responding to and mitigating cybersecurity incidents. maCERT plays a crucial role in monitoring the threat landscape, coordinating responses to cyber incidents, and providing guidance on best practices for cybersecurity.

Capacity Building and Awareness

Morocco places a strong emphasis on building cybersecurity capacity and raising awareness among its citizens and businesses. The country has implemented various training programs aimed at developing the skills of cybersecurity professionals and enhancing the knowledge of existing IT staff. These programs are designed to ensure that Morocco has a pool of qualified experts capable of addressing the complex challenges posed by cyber threats.

Public awareness campaigns are also a key component of Morocco’s cybersecurity strategy. These campaigns aim to educate citizens and businesses about the risks associated with cyber threats and the importance of adopting best practices for cybersecurity. By raising awareness, Morocco hopes to create a more security-conscious society that is better equipped to defend against cyber attacks.

The Al-Khawarizmi Program is a pivotal initiative by the Moroccan government aimed at accelerating the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and fostering innovation within the country. Named after the legendary mathematician Al-Khwarizmi, the program reflects Morocco’s dedication to leveraging AI and other advanced technologies to drive economic growth and societal progress.

Objectives and Goals

The primary objectives of the Al-Khawarizmi Program are to enhance AI literacy and skills among Moroccan citizens, promote AI research and innovation, foster a competitive AI ecosystem, and integrate AI into government services to improve efficiency, transparency, and accessibility.

Key Components

The program is structured around several key components designed to address various aspects of AI development and integration.

In terms of AI education and training, the Al-Khawarizmi Program emphasizes the importance of incorporating AI and machine learning into school and university curricula. It offers specialized AI training programs and certifications to equip the workforce with essential AI skills. Additionally, the program establishes partnerships with international educational institutions to provide world-class AI education.

To drive AI innovation, the program supports research and development (R&D) in AI and related fields such as data science and robotics. It fosters collaboration between universities, research centers, and the private sector to create a culture of AI innovation. Funding for AI research projects and startups is provided through grants and venture capital to stimulate growth and innovation.

The program aims to build robust digital infrastructure to support AI development. This includes expanding high-speed internet access to facilitate AI applications, developing data centers and cloud computing facilities to support AI services, and implementing smart city technologies that leverage AI to enhance urban living.