17 June 2025

The Comorian government has awarded frequencies to Comores Télécom and Yas Comores to deploy 5G technology nationwide. The government promises faster, more reliable connections and an enhanced digital experience for the population. Once operational, 5G could significantly accelerate the country’s digitalization strategy.

A 2021 study by Dell Technologies highlighted that 5G offers transmission speeds up to 100 times faster than 4G, with lower latency and increased network capacity — enabling advanced applications that require real-time connectivity and supporting sector modernization.

The National Regulatory Authority for Information and Communication Technologies (ANRTIC) stated: “5G will transform sectors such as education, health, financial services, and economic development.”

This initiative aligns with the government’s vision to position the Comoros as a key player in the digital revolution by 2030, leveraging ICT to drive economic growth, social transformation, and sector diversification. The strategy emphasizes infrastructure sharing and expanding beyond traditional telecommunications.

However, operators currently only possess frequency permits; no timeline for deployment or widespread service has been announced. Additionally, the high costs of implementing 5G — estimated between $3 billion and $8 billion for full national coverage, according to a 2022 Ericsson study — pose significant challenges.

To bridge this gap, the government is implementing the Comoros Digitalization Support Project (PADEC), funded by the African Development Bank and the Islamic Development Bank. The €22.53 million initiative includes building a data centre, establishing a digital administration platform, and creating a data interoperability and exchange platform.