Côte d’Ivoire has outlined an ambitious roadmap to accelerate its digital transformation and position itself as a leading technology hub in Africa by 2035, as government officials and industry leaders gathered in Abidjan for the sixth edition of African Digital Week (ADW).

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the event at the Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire, Minister of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation Djibril Ouattara presented the government's long-term strategy for digital development, highlighting key priorities aimed at modernizing the economy and strengthening the country's competitiveness.

Held under the theme "Emerging Technologies: Shaping the Africa of Tomorrow," the two-day conference brought together policymakers, technology companies, investors and digital experts from across the continent to discuss innovation, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and digital governance.

As patron of the event, Ouattara said Côte d’Ivoire's digital transformation agenda is built around seven strategic pillars supported by 40 flagship projects. These include expanding digital connectivity and access, modernizing public administration through digital services, fostering innovation and artificial intelligence, strengthening cybersecurity and digital trust, developing digital skills and upgrading the national postal service.

According to the minister, the strategy aims to leverage technology as a driver of economic growth, public sector efficiency and social inclusion while preparing the country for the opportunities and challenges of the digital economy.

Representing the President of the General Confederation of Enterprises of Côte d’Ivoire (CGECI), Special Adviser Pierre Magne said the conference theme reflects a profound transformation already underway across Africa, driven by rapid technological advancement and increasing digital adoption.

He also praised the Ministry of Digital Transition and Technological Innovation for its institutional support in ensuring the success of this year's event.

Laurent Gnon, Chief Executive Officer of SONEC AFRICA and the event's diamond sponsor, pledged to support the development of the digital ecosystem by accompanying African Digital Week over the next five years.

The event featured panel discussions, keynote speeches and workshops focused on emerging technologies, innovation, economic digitalization, digital governance, ethics and sustainability. An exhibition area showcased technological solutions and innovations developed by digital companies, while networking sessions provided opportunities for business-to-business exchanges among participants from various sectors.

African Digital Week has become one of the region's leading forums for discussing the future of technology and its role in driving Africa's economic transformation and sustainable development.