The second phase of the Western Africa Regional Digital Integration Program, known as WARDIP2, aims to strengthen the foundations of a modern digital economy by improving infrastructure, enhancing the business environment and enabling firms to operate across borders.
The programme is expected to expand broadband access, increase digital financing opportunities and support the growth of regional digital services markets. Around 5.2 million people will be connected to new or upgraded broadband networks, while 5.4 million new users are expected to gain access to digitally enabled public and private services.
“This new initiative positions West Africa to accelerate economic transformation by creating jobs, strengthening resilience and enabling a more integrated regional digital market,” said Michel Rogy, the World Bank’s Digital and Artificial Intelligence Regional Practice Director. He noted that high‑cost and unreliable connectivity remain major barriers to competitiveness and economic opportunity in the region.
WARDIP2 will include large‑scale investments in broadband networks, international connectivity links and data‑centre capacity, laying critical groundwork for digital industries and improved service delivery. A key component of the programme will invest in people, offering digital skills training for 9 000 individuals, including women and young people, with opportunities in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and entrepreneurship.
Marina Wes, acting Regional Integration Director for Africa, said the programme would help harmonise regulations, modernise digital governance and improve competition across participating markets. “Lower deployment costs and expanded access to affordable, high‑quality connectivity are critical to deepening regional integration, unlocking private capital and creating jobs,” she said.
WARDIP2 will also support small and medium enterprises and digital startups, providing seed financing, market access and opportunities for cross‑border digital trade. More than 140 startups, including women‑led firms, are expected to benefit.
Launched in 2023, WARDIP began with support to The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea‑Bissau and Mauritania. With the approval of WARDIP2, the initiative now spans seven countries and extends support to the West Africa Economic and Monetary Union.
–WorldBank/ChannelAfrica–
