05 May 2025

The Central African authorities have officially awarded an operating license to Brazilian company SOS Telecom in a ceremony led by the Minister of Digital Economy, Posts and Telecommunications, Justin Gourna Zacko, alongside SOS Telecom’s CEO, Kertoumar Djargue.

The Central African Ministry of Digital Economy stated that the goal for the end of the year is to achieve 60-70% geographic coverage of telecommunications infrastructure. The aim is also to extend optical fibre connectivity to rural areas. The initiative aligns with the vision of President Faustin Archange Touadera, who seeks to transform the country’s geographical isolation into an opportunity by enhancing digital access.

This project is part of a regional effort that includes collaboration with Chad, another landlocked nation exploring synergies to improve connectivity. In September 2024, Chad was linked to a 900km network of fibre optic cables connecting it to Congo and Cameroon, supported by €33 million in funding from the African Development Bank and the European Union.

The success of SOS Telecom’s project will hinge on its ability to meet investment and deployment commitments. If the targeted coverage and infrastructure goals are accomplished, the Central African Republic could experience a substantial leap in internet accessibility.