The International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Orange’s MEA unit pledged to collaborate to improve access to digital technology across underserved areas of West and Central Africa.
In a joint statement, the World Bank institution and Orange noted the partnership would take advantage of the operator’s local roots and infrastructure in the region, along with IFC’s expertise in development finance.
The plan is to construct fibre and mobile infrastructure across eight countries and provide an investment model able to be replicated elsewhere. The ultimate goal is to bridge the digital divide, foster financial inclusion, create jobs with a focus on the digital economy and strengthen “territorial resilience”.
Orange Middle East and Africa CEO Jerome Henique described the partnership as a “major step forward in accelerating our ambition to bridge the digital divide by providing quality, sustainable and accessible connectivity for as many people as possible, especially in rural or underserved areas”.
“By combining our forces, we want to build a more equitable digital future for all in Africa,” he added.
IFC VP for Africa Ethiopis Tafara noted: “Increasing access to digital connectivity in Africa is a key priority for fostering innovation, broadening financial inclusion and generating employment opportunities.”