Since 2018, Comoros has prioritized digital transformation to modernize its economy. This ambitious goal requires substantial investment to fuel technological innovation and boost competitiveness.

The Comorian government will receive financial support from the African Development Bank (AfDB) to bolster its digital economy. The financial support, negotiated during a virtual session between the AfDB and Comorian officials on September 2, will come through the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Transition Support Facility (TSF) for the Digital Economy Support Project (PADEC).

According to the National Digital Development Agency, discussions focused on the evaluation report for PADEC, the protocols for the ADF and TSF grants, and corresponding disbursement letters. "After review, both delegations approved the various instruments, pending a few minor adjustments. This key step now brings the project to its final stage before approval by the AfDB’s board of directors," the agency stated.

The initiative aligns with the Comorian government's "Comoros Emerging 2030" and "Digital Comoros 2028" strategies launched in 2018 to harness the potential of ICT for economic development. Despite its efforts, Comoros still lags behind in terms of ICT development. In a  December 2023 report, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) ranked the country 25th in Africa with a score of 46.5, below the continental average of 47.4.

The AfDB’s financial support will enable several key initiatives under PADEC, including the digitalization of public services, enhancement of the legal and institutional framework for digital technologies, the creation of a data center and digital incubator, and the expansion of connectivity coverage across the Comorian archipelago.

Samira Njoya