The World Bank is preparing a $265.5 million regional program to expand affordable internet access and digital services across Central Africa, with planned investments in broadband infrastructure, cross-border connectivity and digital systems.
The Central Africa Regional Digital Integration Program (CARDIP) aims to strengthen digital markets across six countries of the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC): Cameroon, the Central African Republic (CAR), Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. The initiative is designed to improve connectivity, encourage the use of digital services and reduce barriers between national markets.
The program remains at the preparation stage. According to the World Bank’s project documents, appraisal is scheduled for November 3, 2026, with consideration by the bank’s board planned for April 12, 2027. The estimated project cost is $265.5 million; financing has not yet received final approval.
Expanding Infrastructure and Digital Services
CARDIP is intended to address gaps in broadband infrastructure and fragmented digital markets. Planned activities include resilient terrestrial networks and cross-border connections, alongside improvements to regulatory frameworks, data governance and cybersecurity.
The program also aims to expand digital public infrastructure, including systems for digital identification, payments and data exchange. Digital skills initiatives are expected to help individuals, businesses and public institutions use these services more effectively.
The first phase is expected to focus on infrastructure investments in the CAR, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. CEMAC will serve as the main regional coordinating and implementing institution, working with the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS) and national authorities.
Economic Implications for Central Africa
More reliable and affordable internet could help businesses reach customers, facilitate digital payments and improve access to public services. Cross-border connectivity could also make it easier for companies operating in multiple countries to use digital platforms and participate in regional trade.
However, infrastructure investment alone will not guarantee these outcomes. The economic benefits will depend on service affordability, businesses’ ability to adopt digital tools, workforce skills and the regulatory environment governing telecommunications markets.
The program also identifies women, young people, rural communities and other underserved groups as priorities for digital inclusion. Reaching these populations will be important to ensure that improved connectivity creates opportunities beyond major urban centers.
From Regional Plans to Implementation
CARDIP forms part of broader efforts to strengthen digital integration in Central Africa, where national markets and infrastructure networks remain fragmented. Coordinated investment could improve cross-border connectivity and support the growth of regional digital services.
The next milestones are the planned appraisal and proposed board consideration in 2027. Until financing is approved and implementation begins, the timing and scale of the expected benefits remain uncertain.
For participating countries, the challenge will be to turn the proposed investment into affordable services, stronger digital markets and tangible economic opportunities for businesses and communities across the region.
