Telecommunications operator Telecel Faso has started deploying 300 telecom sites across Burkina Faso as part of a government-led initiative aimed at extending network coverage to 750 underserved areas. The rollout includes a mix of full towers and antenna-based sites and is currently underway nationwide.
The update was shared by Telecel Faso CEO Boris Compaoré during a meeting with the Minister of Digital Transition, Posts and Electronic Communications, Aminata Zerbo-Sabané. Compaoré noted that while the original plan covered 150 sites, Telecel has committed to deploying an additional 150 to accelerate coverage expansion and increase impact across both urban centres and rural municipalities.
The minister commended Telecel’s efforts to reduce the digital divide, highlighting the company’s continued investment despite operational and on-ground challenges. The new sites are expected to improve mobile coverage, support digital access, and allow Telecel to expand its footprint in areas previously lacking telecom services.
The deployment aligns with broader national efforts to strengthen digital infrastructure and inclusion. Burkina Faso has recently pursued regional cooperation to address cross-border signal interference, partnered with UAE-based Presight to boost its digital economy, and advanced initiatives related to cybersecurity and digital transformation.
For Telecel Faso, the expansion could help strengthen its competitive position in a market dominated by Orange and Moov Africa. As of Q3 2025, Telecel had 2.8 million mobile users, compared with 14.2 million for Orange and 12.7 million for Moov, according to Omdia.
