As Côte d’Ivoire accelerates its digital transformation, the issue of data domiciliation becomes essential to ensure the security and growth of its digital economy. Storing personal data within national borders is not only vital for protecting sensitive information, but it also reduces reliance on international infrastructure, such as undersea cables, which are often vulnerable to cuts.
The incident in March 2024, involving a cutting of submarine cables which paralyzed a large part of Internet services in Côte d’Ivoire, demonstrated the risks of too much reliance on international connectivity infrastructure. Strict enforcement of local data domicile laws could help avoid these types of situations by ensuring that critical data remains accessible, even if external connections fail.
To respond to these challenges, Côte d’Ivoire has put in place a solid legal framework with Law No. 2013-450, governing the management of personal data. This legislation aims to protect citizens’ data and promote their local storage. Regulatory efforts are supported by regional organizations like ECOWAS and UEMOA, which encourage member countries to adopt similar policies to strengthen their digital sovereignty.
To support this approach, the development of local data center infrastructure is crucial. Companies like MainOne, Orange and MTN are investing in the creation of data centers in Ivory Coast, offering a robust solution for data hosting. These infrastructures make it possible to reduce data transfer costs and ensure greater digital autonomy.
Local data hosting is a key strategy to protect the Ivorian digital economy. By reducing capital flight and creating local economic opportunities, data domiciliation promotes sustainable growth and supports digital transformation initiatives. It is imperative that the Ivorian government strengthens and strictly enforces its regulations to ensure that the benefits of the digital revolution fully accrue to the country and its people.
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