• Burkina Faso signs digital economy pact with UAE’s Presight G42

• Deal covers AI skills, e-government, infrastructure, and cybersecurity

• Partnership supports 2025 roadmap, digital inclusion, and governance reforms

Burkina Faso has signed a memorandum of understanding with Presight International Services, a subsidiary of the United Arab Emirates-based G42 group, to bolster the country’s digital economy.

The agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi on Friday, Sept. 19, by Burkina Faso’s Minister of Digital Transition, Posts, and Electronic Communications, Aminata Zerbo/Sabane, and Presight's Vice President, Sheikh Muhammad Shameen Hosenbocus. The pact establishes a framework for cooperation on several key fronts, including developing skills in artificial intelligence, strengthening digital infrastructure to improve connectivity, consolidating e-government services, and implementing more robust cybersecurity measures.

The goal is to equip Burkina Faso with modern and resilient digital solutions to support its public and private sectors and prepare for the implementation of large-scale projects. This initiative aligns with the country's national digital transformation strategy, which has recently led to numerous international partnerships to modernize its administration and stimulate its digital economy. These collaborations include agreements with the World Bank, Togo, and several private sector players aimed at strengthening the country's digital infrastructure and services.

The agreement comes as the country accelerates projects outlined in its 2025 roadmap. These include finalizing data centers, which are 70% complete, and expanding coverage to at least 500 additional localities in so-called "white zones," areas with no internet access. The government also plans to increase the digitization of administrative services and conduct a mass enrollment of the population for a new electronic unique identification system.

Once implemented, the partnership should accelerate digital inclusion in Burkina Faso, create opportunities for young talent, and enhance transparency in public governance. For the United Arab Emirates, it represents an opportunity to expand its expertise in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure while supporting digital transformation in a strategic West African market.

Samira Njoya