• DRC signs agreement with U.S. firm Cybastion to speed up digital development
• Authorities seek American investment in telecoms and technology
• Weak infrastructure and low internet access continue to limit progress

The Democratic Republic of Congo has signed a new agreement with a U.S. technology firm, marking a step toward deeper American involvement in its digital sector.

The deal, concluded on April 15 in Washington with Cybastion, reflects the government’s effort to attract U.S. companies and capital into telecoms and digital services. The meeting, supported by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Atlantic Council, brought together investors, U.S. officials, and business leaders to discuss opportunities in the Congolese market.

According to the Ministry of Digital Economy, the agreement sets the foundation for a strategic partnership focused on technology investment, skills transfer, and faster adoption of digital tools. It also signals a broader opening of the market to American firms.

Equity Group Holdings, which operates in Congo through Equity BCDC, also expressed interest in supporting the country’s digital shift. Hugues Efole, deputy CEO for commercial operations, said the bank intends to expand its role beyond traditional financing and engage in technology-driven initiatives. He said the objective is to link the country’s digital ambitions with access to affordable services.

Digital development is a central pillar of the government’s economic strategy. Authorities aim to build a “Digital Nation” and position the country as a technology hub in Central Africa by 2030. In Washington, Digital Economy Minister Augustin Kibassa outlined three priorities: expanding infrastructure, introducing a secure national digital identity system, and building a digital economy driven by innovation and financial inclusion.

The national digital development plan, unveiled in September 2025, rests on four pillars. It includes expanding connectivity and data centers, modernizing public services through e-government, strengthening cybersecurity and governance systems, and developing digital skills, especially among young people and women.

Officials also emphasize the size of the market. With more than 100 million people, most of them young, the country represents a large and still underdeveloped digital user base. The government points to the adoption of a digital code that provides legal protection, data security, and a framework for public-private partnerships. “Investing in Congo means investing in one of Africa’s most promising markets,” Kibassa said.

Despite these ambitions, major gaps remain. Mobile penetration stands at about 65%, while mobile internet usage reaches around 33%, according to official figures. The actual level may be lower because many users hold multiple SIM cards. The GSMA estimated mobile internet penetration at just 17% in 2024.

Infrastructure remains a key constraint. In November 2025, Telecommunications Minister José Mpanda Kabangu said 145 territories still lack coverage. The country has about 4,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable, far below the estimated need of 50,000 kilometers, and around 5,150 telecom towers, compared with a target of at least 30,000.

The country also ranks low on global digital indicators. It placed 179th out of 193 countries in the United Nations’ 2024 E-Government Development Index, with a score below regional and global averages. On the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index, Congo ranks at an intermediate level, reflecting progress in legal and institutional frameworks but continued gaps in technical capacity, cooperation, and skills development.

Isaac K. Kassouwi