The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has unveiled an ambitious $8.7 billion (€8B+) digital transformation plan for 2026–2030, aimed at expanding connectivity, modernizing public services, strengthening cybersecurity, and building a skilled digital workforce. The strategy positions the DRC as an emerging regional tech and digital infrastructure hub, leveraging both public funding and global private-sector partnerships.
Core Pillars of the Plan
- Connectivity & Infrastructure
- Broadband expansion to 650 communities, connecting 30 million peopleand 1,000 public institutions
- Deployment of solar-powered mobile towersthrough partnerships with Vodacom and Orange
- Target of 7 million new mobile internet users by 2029
- Digital Government & Platforms
- Rollout of digital ID (DRC Pass), e-government portals, online tax and customs systems
- Launch of a National Interbank Payments Platform by March 2026, linking banks and mobile money providers
- Creation of a Tier 3 national data center to strengthen data sovereignty
- Fintech & Financial Inclusion
- Major opportunities in mobile money, digital payments, and interoperable fintech systems
- Addressing an underbanked population where only ~14% have access to traditional banking
- Digital reforms expected to add $4.1B to GDP by 2029
- Human Capital & Tech Ecosystem
- Training 250,000 youthin AI, cybersecurity, programming, and digital entrepreneurship
- Launch of the Congolese Academy of Artificial Intelligence, focused on applied AI for mining, agriculture, healthcare, and public services
- Strong backing from partners like the World Bank, Cisco, and international development agencies
- Cybersecurity & Digital Trust
- National focus on cybersecurity, blockchain-based digital ID, and secure data infrastructure
- Cybersecurity training embedded across national programs to support long-term digital trust
Opportunities for Businesses
- Telecoms:Rural broadband, fiber networks, renewable-energy-powered towers, 4G/5G rollout
- Fintech:Mobile money expansion, interbank payment interoperability, digital tax and customs solutions
- Tech Builders:AI for mining and agriculture, cybersecurity services, e-government platforms, digital skills training
Projected Impact by 2029
- $4.1B GDP increase
- 700,000 jobs created
- 30,000 new tech and IT roles
- Significant productivity gains in mining, agriculture, healthcare, and public service
Bottom Line
The DRC’s digital strategy represents one of Africa’s most comprehensive tech transformation efforts. With strong government commitment, international funding, and a vast underserved population, the country offers high-growth opportunities for telecom operators, fintech firms, and technology builders willing to align with national priorities around connectivity, inclusion, AI, and cybersecurity.
