U.S. Backs Ivory Coast With Digital, Health, Logistics Deals

The United States announced a series of investment and trade agreements with Côte d'Ivoire during a visit by Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia, including approval for Starlink to launch commercial satellite internet services in the country.

The agreements cover digital infrastructure, healthcare, education and logistics, underscoring stronger economic ties between Washington and Abidjan. Starlink's entry is expected to expand broadband access, particularly in rural and underserved areas, while supporting online education, digital healthcare and business connectivity.

The United States also backed a $170 million digital infrastructure project financed by the U.S. Export-Import Bank. The project, led by cybersecurity company Cybastion, includes the construction of a national data center, the rollout of a digital public services platform and the deployment of an intelligent border management system. Cisco is also working with the U.S. Embassy and Cybastion to support Côte d'Ivoire's digital ecosystem.

In healthcare, ABD Group reached an agreement to launch a $293 million health infrastructure program. The project is the first phase of a broader $570 million framework signed earlier this year covering health, education and water infrastructure. In logistics, U.S. technology company NTELX will deploy truck coordination technology at the Port of Abidjan to improve cargo flows, reduce waiting times and strengthen supply chain efficiency.

Together, the announced projects represent about $463 million in planned investments and reinforce Côte d'Ivoire's position as one of West Africa's fastest-growing investment destinations. The agreements also reflect growing U.S. interest in supporting digital infrastructure, public services and private sector development across the region.