• New government cloud and data center aim to strengthen digital infrastructure

• Project supports cybersecurity, public services, and investor confidence

• Progress continues, but gaps remain in e-government and cybersecurity

Angola has launched a national data center and government cloud platform as part of efforts to strengthen its digital infrastructure and support its broader digital transformation strategy. The initiative was announced on April 28 by the Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technologies and Social Communication.

According to the ministry, the new facility is expected to improve data security by keeping information within national borders, reduce operational costs, and expand access to digital public services. Authorities also say the project will help boost investor confidence, support innovation, and position Angola as a digital hub in Southern Africa.

A broader push to build infrastructure

The data center is part of a wider effort to develop Angola’s telecommunications and information technology sector. Authorities highlight several major investments already underway.

In October 2022, Angola launched the ANGOSAT-2 communications satellite, aimed at reducing the digital divide. The government has also expanded internet access, including connectivity for public institutions such as schools, hospitals, universities, and government offices.

The country has accelerated fiber-optic deployment, extending its network to about 22,000 kilometers. The activation of the 2Africa submarine cable has strengthened Angola’s regional and global connectivity. The country is already connected to four other cables: WACS, UNSC, SACS, and SAT-3/WASC.

A recent partnership with Namibia is expected to give Angola access to the Equiano cable and support the arrival of a new cable project led by Angola Telecom.

According to Telecommunications Minister Mário Oliveira, these investments have helped build a stronger technological base, supporting digital inclusion and creating opportunities for private sector players, including startups and small and medium-sized businesses.

Adoption indicators show progress. More than 85% of the population is now covered by broadband services, with about 17.7 million subscribers. Mobile penetration stands at around 75%.

Progress alongside persistent challenges

These investments support Angola’s ambition to use information and communication technologies as a driver of economic and social development. The government is implementing the Angola Digital Acceleration Program (PADA), backed by $300 million from the World Bank. The program aims to expand digital inclusion, improve access to public services, and support the growth of the digital economy, including the digitization of administrative processes.

Despite these advances, structural challenges remain. Angola ranks 156th out of 193 countries in the 2024 United Nations E-Government Development Index, with a score of 0.4149, slightly below the African average and well below the global average.

In cybersecurity, Angola was classified in 2024 in Tier 4 of the International Telecommunication Union’s global index, the second-lowest category. This reflects limited overall readiness, despite some regulatory progress and increased participation in international initiatives. The ITU notes that further efforts are needed in technical measures, organizational capacity, and skills development.

Isaac K. Kassouwi