UN Development Program and Orange Côte d’Ivoire join forces to empower youth digitally
Abidjan — In a significant move to bridge the digital divide, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Orange Côte d’Ivoire have formalized a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating digital inclusion, particularly for young people and young women, while fostering entrepreneurship across the country.
The agreement, signed in Abidjan on May 21, 2026, reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development and inequality reduction through innovative digital solutions. The collaboration will focus on equipping youth with essential digital skills, nurturing startup ecosystems, and extending digital initiatives to rural and underserved communities.
Central to this partnership is the Orange Digital Center, a hub designed to serve as a catalyst for digital empowerment and business incubation for young entrepreneurs. Through this initiative, both organizations will roll out training programs, mentorship opportunities, and resources to support digital literacy and enterprise growth.
The UNDP Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire, Blerta Cela, emphasized the significance of the collaboration, stating, « This partnership marks a pivotal step toward advancing digital inclusion and youth entrepreneurship in Côte d’Ivoire. By harnessing the strengths of the private sector and international partners, we are paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable future. »
Echoing this sentiment, Mamadou Bamba, CEO of Orange Côte d’Ivoire, underscored the company’s dedication to empowering vulnerable populations and young people through tangible opportunities in the digital economy. « Our goal is to create pathways for success by equipping the next generation with the tools they need to thrive in a digital-first world, » he noted.
The partners also outlined plans to align their efforts with Côte d’Ivoire’s National Development Plan (PND) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), positioning the country as a key player in the global digital economy.
