Orange Group commits over €1 billion annually to expand digital connectivity across Africa and the Middle East. While 520 million Africans have mobile access, many still lack fixed broadband. Orange focuses on closing this gap through network expansion, 5G innovation, and sustainable infrastructure investments. The company views connectivity as crucial to socio-economic development in these two evolving, competitive regions.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Orange accelerates efforts to bring digital services to millions who remain unconnected in Africa and the Middle East. The company targets network expansion, focusing on both mobile and fixed broadband. By 2025, Orange wants an average of 85% 4G coverage across its markets. Fixed broadband customers in Africa already grew 27% between 2021 and 2023, reaching 3.3 million.
Fibre optics form a crucial part of Orange’s growth strategy. The company invests heavily in high-speed broadband infrastructure, enabling better internet access for households and businesses. Alongside this, Orange embraces 5G technology. It has launched 5G services in countries, including Botswana, Jordan, and Senegal, and created five Orange 5G Labs in key markets. These labs help local partners innovate and test 5G applications. Orange aims to capture half of smartphone sales in the region by 2026 to support the rollout of 5G.
Orange also focuses on rural connectivity. About 70 million people in remote areas still lack internet access. To address this, the company plans to add 15,000 new rural sites over three years, expanding on the 2,000 sites already operational. All new rural sites will be entirely solar-powered, reflecting Orange’s commitment to green energy and sustainable growth.
Additionally, Orange invests between €100 million and €200 million annually in pan-African infrastructure. The Djoliba terrestrial fibre network, spanning 10,000 kilometres, is one of its key projects. The company also contributes to submarine cables, such as 2Africa, which are vital for international connectivity. These backbone networks increased Orange Middle East and Africa’s international capacity nearly seven-fold in five years.
By linking urban and rural areas with advanced networks, Orange promotes digital inclusion and economic opportunity. Its multi-service approach supports education, healthcare, business, and government services, driving broad social impact.
TF Summary: What’s Next
Orange’s €1 billion annual investment advances digital access across Africa and the Middle East. The company’s 5G rollout, fibre optic expansion, and solar-powered rural sites bridge the connectivity divide in a sustainable manner. This investment lays the foundation for future innovation, digital transformation, and socio-economic growth in these dynamic regions.
As infrastructure strengthens and network coverage widens, more people and businesses will benefit from reliable, high-speed internet. Orange’s continued commitment signals a future where digital inclusion empowers communities and economies throughout Africa and the Middle East.
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