from ALEXIS DOUMBIA in Abidjan, Ivory Coast
Ivory Coast Bureau
ABIDJAN, (CAJ News) – IVORY Coast has taken a bold step toward digital sovereignty through a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Stellenium and the Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INP-HB).
The partnership aims to place the nation’s artificial intelligence (AI) and data infrastructure firmly under Ivorian control, positioning the country as a regional leader in AI innovation.
Officials describe the agreement as a defining moment in reclaiming digital power and accelerating West Africa’s technological independence.
INP-HB, the country’s premier polytechnic, will collaborate with Stellenium, government ministries, and local stakeholders to build a sovereign, AI-driven ecosystem tailored to Ivorian needs.
The initiative will feature reliable energy solutions, AI-optimized data centers, and climate-resilient infrastructure. A locally accessible platform will allow startups, enterprises, and public services to harness AI without requiring advanced technical skills.
“This is a major step in Ivory Coast’s digital transformation,” said Prof. Pierre Yourougou, Deputy Director General for Research and Innovation at INP-HB. “By establishing sovereign infrastructure based on cutting-edge technologies, we are paving the way for international competitiveness.”
Nancy Coblenz, Stellenium’s co-founder and president, affirmed Ivory Coast’s pivotal role: “Its people, institutions, and growing economy make it the ideal nation to lead in redefining how countries build, innovate, and thrive.”
The collaboration is expected to transform education, governance, and economic growth, making Ivory Coast a model for digital sovereignty across Africa.
– CAJ News