The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is opening up to the Ivorian private sector. On Thursday, May 21, 2026, together with its partner Orange Côte d’Ivoire, they signed a strategic agreement aimed at promoting digital inclusion, youth empowerment—particularly for women and the development of entrepreneurship.

Formalized through a memorandum of understanding, this milestone marks the official implementation of joint initiatives designed to support sustainable development and contribute to reducing inequalities in the country.

“This agreement represents a major step to accelerate digital inclusion and entrepreneurship in Côte d’Ivoire by mobilizing the strengths of the private sector and international partners for a more equitable and sustainable development,” said Blerta Cela, UNDP Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire.

This partnership is part of the UNDP’s broader strategy to strengthen the development of innovative solutions through digitalization, in collaboration with the leading mobile telecommunications company, a key player in digital inclusion through the Orange Digital Center. Together, they aim to deploy training programs, entrepreneurship support initiatives, and expand digital projects into rural and vulnerable areas.

“We are proud to strengthen our commitment to digital inclusion and youth empowerment in partnership with the UNDP. Together, we want to create concrete opportunities for all, especially for women and vulnerable populations,” said Mamadou Bamba, CEO of Orange Côte d’Ivoire.

The key priorities of this collaboration include the implementation of professional training focused on digital skills, support for startups and entrepreneurship hubs, as well as the expansion of digital initiatives beyond Abidjan to reach a wider range of vulnerable communities.

The agreement also aims to strengthen Côte d’Ivoire’s position in the global digital economy, aligning its actions with the National Development Plan and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).