DR Congo and France explore AI and internet cooperation

DRC Minister of Posts and Telecommunications José Mpanda Kabangu met France's Minister Delegate for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs, Anne Le Hénanff, on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, to explore opportunities for collaboration.

According to reporting by We Are Tech Africa, the discussions focused on expanding internet connectivity through fibre-optic infrastructure and satellite technologies, developing AI applications and improving citizens' access to digital services.

The two officials also examined online user protection, transparency and the environmental implications of digital technologies.

The discussions represent an exploratory stage of bilateral cooperation. Neither country has announced specific projects or implementation agreements arising from the meeting.

Digital strategy targets development by 2030

In healthcare, AI applications could potentially support medical data analysis and service delivery.

In agriculture, they could assist with information processing and decision-making, while public institutions could explore ways to improve administrative efficiency.

These are potential applications rather than confirmed projects under the proposed cooperation with France.

The DRC government's broader digitalisation programme also aims to reduce disparities in access to digital services between urban and rural communities.

At a digital investment forum in Kinshasa on 8 October, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka emphasised the importance of sustainable investment, infrastructure development and private-sector participation in extending connectivity throughout the country.

Internet access remains a major challenge

The figures illustrate the country's dependence on non-fixed connectivity and the limited reach of terrestrial fixed-line infrastructure.

The government is considering acquiring a sovereign satellite to complement existing telecommunications networks and improve coverage in remote and underserved areas.

Satellite connectivity could help extend services to communities where installing fibre-optic cables is technically difficult or economically expensive.

However, satellite infrastructure would not eliminate the need for terrestrial networks, affordable devices, reliable electricity and sustainable telecommunications investment.

The government has identified connectivity across the country's 145 territories as a priority within its digital transformation programme.

Online safety and technical expertise form part of discussions

Beyond connectivity, the proposed cooperation could create opportunities for knowledge sharing, professional training and technical assistance in AI development and digital regulation.

Online safety was another area discussed by the ministers, alongside transparency and responsible technology use.

As more citizens gain internet access, digital governance becomes increasingly important for protecting users and strengthening trust in online services.

France has separately identified the protection of children online and the cybersecurity implications of artificial intelligence as priorities in its digital policy discussions.

The DRC already has an ongoing Digital Transformation Project supported by the World Bank and the French Development Agency.

The programme covers connectivity, public digital infrastructure, information systems security and skills development.

On 8 October 2026, the project's steering committee approved its annual work plan and budget, reinforcing the government's efforts to coordinate digital infrastructure development.

This existing programme provides relevant context for cooperation with French institutions, although it has not been identified as a direct outcome of the latest ministerial meeting.

For the DRC, future cooperation with France could contribute to stronger digital infrastructure, domestic AI capabilities and improved access to technological expertise.

For now, the 14 October discussions remain exploratory, with no new joint initiative, funding commitment or implementation timetable publicly announced.