Burkina Faso’s ARCEP Launches National Drive to Expand Digital Infrastructure
The initiative seeks to position digital infrastructure as a catalyst for economic development, supporting the government”s broader objective of modernizing public administration and accelerating economic growth through digital technologies.
Burkina Faso’s Electronic Communications and Postal Regulatory Authority (ARCEP) has launched a four-day national workshop in Bobo-Dioulasso aimed at strengthening collaboration with local authorities to improve the deployment and quality of electronic communications networks across the country.
The workshop, running from June 29 to July 2, 2026, brings together around 100 participants, including representatives of ARCEP and territorial authorities. The event was officially opened on behalf of the Governor of the Guiriko Region by Houet Province Secretary General Sombéniwendé Nikiema, underscoring the regional government’s commitment to advancing the country’s digital transformation agenda.
The initiative seeks to position digital infrastructure as a catalyst for economic development, supporting the government’s broader objective of modernizing public administration and accelerating economic growth through digital technologies.
During the opening session, ARCEP Executive Secretary Wendlassida Patrice Compaore emphasized that robust digital services depend on the successful deployment of physical telecommunications infrastructure. He noted that the rollout of mobile network towers continues to face challenges, including local opposition driven by environmental concerns and misinformation, which can delay infrastructure projects and affect network quality.
To address these challenges, ARCEP is strengthening cooperation with municipal authorities across several localities, including Bittou, Koudougou, Loumbila, Ouahigouya, Ouagadougou, Réo and Bobo-Dioulasso. The regulator is encouraging local leaders to act as “digital ambassadors” by engaging communities, raising awareness of the importance of telecommunications infrastructure, and facilitating network deployments.
The workshop’s agenda covers key issues affecting the sector, including the legal and institutional framework for electronic communications, standards governing non-ionizing radiation and environmental regulations, administrative procedures for occupying public land, and the role of the Universal Access and Service Fund (FASU) in expanding digital inclusion.
ARCEP said the workshop aims to build stronger partnerships between national and local authorities to ensure that citizens across Burkina Faso have access to reliable, affordable and high-quality digital services while supporting the country’s long-term digital development objectives.
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