As part of its digital transformation ambitions, the Congolese government has set a goal of developing the country's digital sector and infrastructure. This initiative is part of the 'Congo Digital 2025' strategy, which is set to conclude this year.

Congolese Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy Léon Juste Ibombo  (photo, right) unveiled an ambitious roadmap on Wednesday to tackle the challenges of digital, financial, and social inclusion by the end of the year. Reappointed to his position, Ibombo reaffirmed his commitment to transforming the sector in line with directives from President Denis Sassou N’Guesso, who emphasized the need for "tangible results" during the last Council of Ministers.

"The President of the Republic firmly reminded government members of the need to accelerate the implementation of priority projects, which symbolize the expected response to the population's essential needs. He stressed the importance of concrete achievements," Ibombo explained.

The roadmap established by the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and the Digital Economy is built around several strategic pillars.  According to the roadmap, the priority for postal service operator SOPECO is to restore a peaceful social climate, a prerequisite for advancing structural reforms and developing new innovative digital products. Congo Telecom SA is preparing to launch its mobile network in the country's main cities, a critical project for the historic operator. The Digital Economy Development Agency (ADEN) is tasked with supporting young innovators, overseeing the e-government portal, and organizing initiatives such as the Denis Sassou N’Guesso Prize, in partnership with Huawei.

The Digital Transformation Acceleration Project (PATN) is also a key project in that roadmap.  It plans to connect 186 rural localities to electronic communications and train 1,200 young people in digital skills. Other initiatives include restructuring the General Directorate of Posts and Telecommunications and reducing the digital divide through the Regulatory Agency for Posts and Electronic Communications (ARPCE).

A rigorous monitoring and monthly evaluation system will accompany this mobilization to ensure the completion of priority projects. Through modernizing infrastructure and strengthening digital capabilities, this roadmap is expected to make 2025 a pivotal year for digital inclusion and the socio-economic development of the Republic of the Congo.

By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji