Burkina Faso, landlocked in the heart of West Africa, experiences unique technological challenges due to its geographical location and population distribution. Much of the country is rural with only about 30% of its 20.3 million-strong population living in urban areas, which creates disparity in telecommunication access between urban and rural regions. Informal, small-scale solutions like phone sharing are common in remoter areas. However, recent governmental efforts have focused on increasing rural electrification and internet penetration. Innovations in renewable energy, such as small-scale solar installations, are seen as viable solutions given the country's high solar irradiation levels. Infrastructure development, particularly in the technology sector, remains a priority for Burkina Faso to overcome its geographical limitations and improve connectivity across the country.
Mobile Network Operators
The are 3 companies operating mobile networks in this region.
Telecel Faso is a prominent telecommunications network provider based in Burkina Faso. The company was established in January 2000 with the purpose of providing comprehensive telecommunication services across the country. The ownership of Telecel Faso Planor Afrique is shared between Planor Afrique and Telecel International, a strategic alliance between local and international telecommunication entities.