World Bank Backs Burkina Faso’s Nationwide Digital Infrastructure Expansion

The Ministry of Digital Transition, Postal and Electronic Communications of Burkina Faso  has announced continued collaboration with the World Bank  to advance the country’s digital transformation initiatives. On February 4, 2026, Minister Dr. Aminata Zerbo/Sabane met with a World Bank delegation led by Jana Kunicova, Sector Director for Digital Development for West and Central Africa, to review progress on key projects.

The discussion focused on two flagship programs supported by the World Bank. The Accelerating Digital Transformation Project (PACTDIGITAL) aims to expand broadband connectivity across the country, while the WURI program is a regional initiative focused on establishing unique identification systems to enhance integration and financial inclusion in West Africa. Mid-term assessments show significant progress, including coverage of 750 previously underserved “white zones,” signaling advancement toward nationwide digital inclusion.

Looking ahead, the World Bank outlined four strategic priorities for 2026: accelerating the expansion of connectivity in white areas, developing data storage infrastructure such as data centers, creating “Citizen’s Houses” to centralize services, and extending the national fiber-optic network. Both the ministry and the World Bank emphasized that these initiatives will improve access to digital services and enhance the daily lives of the Burkinabe population, reinforcing Burkina Faso’s commitment to a comprehensive digital future.