Côte d’Ivoire’s youth to gain digital skills through UN and Orange partnership
Abidjan — A landmark agreement has been signed in Abidjan to bridge the digital divide among Ivorian youth, particularly young women, through expanded access to digital tools and entrepreneurship opportunities.
On May 21, 2026, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Orange Côte d’Ivoire formalized a strategic collaboration aimed at accelerating digital inclusion, empowering youth, and fostering innovation in the country’s growing tech ecosystem.
The partnership focuses on three core objectives: enhancing digital literacy through targeted training programs, supporting tech startups and entrepreneurial hubs, and extending digital initiatives to underserved rural areas and vulnerable communities.
Central to this initiative is the Orange Digital Center, a flagship platform designed to provide young entrepreneurs with mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities to turn digital ideas into viable businesses.
Highlighting the significance of this collaboration, the UNDP Resident Representative in Côte d’Ivoire stated that this alliance represents a pivotal step toward creating a more inclusive and sustainable digital economy. By leveraging private-sector innovation and international partnerships, the initiative aims to unlock new opportunities for youth across the country.
Orange Côte d’Ivoire’s CEO reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering digital empowerment, emphasizing the role of technology in creating equitable access to economic opportunities. The partnership aligns with national development goals, including the National Development Plan (NDP) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), positioning Côte d’Ivoire as a rising player in the global digital economy.
