Orange Middle East and Africa (OMA) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have partnered to expand digital connectivity across West and Central Africa, according to a joint announcement on February 24, 2026.
The collaboration aims to improve access to mobile broadband services in a region where digital infrastructure remains limited. While specific details of the initial investment were not disclosed, the partnership signals a potential for future tower deals, according to capacityglobal.com. The IFC’s involvement suggests a focus on sustainable and impactful connectivity solutions.
The IFC is also currently considering an investment in the Catalyst MENA Climate Fund II, as announced recently, indicating a broader strategy of supporting private sector-led development in the Middle East and North Africa region. This investment, separate from the Orange partnership, underscores the IFC’s commitment to climate-related projects.
In Lebanon, the IFC has recently announced new investments and engagements intended to strengthen the energy, finance, and manufacturing sectors. This activity demonstrates the IFC’s ongoing efforts to support economic stability and growth in challenging environments. These investments are distinct from, but contemporaneous with, the West and Central Africa initiative with Orange.
The Orange-IFC partnership builds on OMA’s existing footprint in the region and leverages the IFC’s financial and technical expertise. The scope of the collaboration extends beyond infrastructure development, potentially encompassing initiatives to promote digital literacy and affordability. No specific timeline for project implementation has been publicly released.
