• Côte d’Ivoire ratifies bill modernizing digital security framework
• National Assembly unanimously adopted the bill on April 24, 2025
• New framework aims to strengthen cybersecurity and align with international standards
  

Côte d’Ivoire's National Assembly unanimously approved on Thursday, April 24, a bill ratifying Ordinance No. 2024-950 dated October 30, 2024, concerning the security of its digital space. Presented by Minister of Digital Transition and Digitalization Kalil Konaté, the legislation modernizes the legal framework for electronic transactions and bolsters cybersecurity measures within the country.

A key amendment involves the repeal of Article 50 of Law No. 2013-546, which had previously assigned the Telecommunications/ICT Regulatory Authority (ARTCI) responsibility for network security, the auditing and certification of information systems, and the issuance of electronic certificates. These responsibilities are now transferred to the National Agency for Information Systems Security (ANSSI), a specialized cybersecurity body.

Concurrently, Articles 3 and 17 of Ordinance No. 2017-500, pertaining to electronic exchanges between citizens and administrations, are amended to replace references to ARTCI with "the competent body," which now designates ANSSI.

ANSSI's mandate now includes safeguarding the State's networks and information systems, as well as critical infrastructure. It will also coordinate responses to cybersecurity incidents, conduct security audits, certify information systems, and issue electronic certificates to entities operating in Côte d’Ivoire. Furthermore, ANSSI is tasked with promoting cybersecurity best practices among government agencies and economic operators.

This transfer of responsibilities is intended to enhance the protection of Côte d’Ivoire's digital realm by entrusting it to a dedicated and technically proficient agency. It also aims to improve the interconnectedness of public information systems within a framework that ensures transparency, technological neutrality, and security. The ratification of this ordinance sets the stage for the implementation of strengthened digital public policies within a more cohesive legal environment aligned with international cybersecurity standards.

Samira Njoya