Guinea, located in West Africa, is predominantly rural with about 75% of its population of 13.5 million people living in outlying areas. Its geography includes coastal plains, mountainous regions and a savannah interior, which can pose challenges for technology and telecommunications infrastructure. The capital, Conakry, is the major urban centre where the majority of the country's technological advancement is concentrated. Guinea's telecommunications sector is developing, with internet penetration at approximately 35%, indicating potential for growth. Internet access is limited, primarily due to inadequate infrastructure. There is a focus on hydropower for renewable energy, capitalising on the country's significant river resources, with the Kaleta Dam and Souapiti Dam being key projects. However, electrification rates remain low with 47% of the population having access to electricity. Guinea's technology sector is emerging, with the government recently introducing a digital Guinea 2025 plan, seeking to improve digital infrastructure and promote innovation and e-government services.
Mobile Network Operators
The are 3 companies operating mobile networks in this region.
Cellcom Guinea is a telecommunications company that operates within the Republic of Guinea. The company was launched in 2004 with the mission to offer innovative and affordable telecommunication services to the Guinean population. Cellcom Guinea is a subsidiary of Cellcom Telecommunications Ltd., a multinational telecommunications corporation based in Liberia. The company changed hands in early 2023 to be locally owned by Guinean billionaire Mohamed Diallo.
MTN Areeba Guinée is the second largest mobile network operating in Guinée-Conakary. The company was founded in 2006 and as of 2018 provides mobile services in 262 prefectures across the country, making it the second largest operator by geographic coverage area. The parent company, MTN Group, was founded in 1994 as M-Cell with assistance from the South African government. It has grown to become one of the largest mobile network operators in the world, and the largest in Africa, with a presence in over 20 countries.
Orange Guinée is the largest mobile network operator in Guinée Conakary. The company was formed in 2007, the fourth mobile network operator to enter the region. Orange's presence in Guinea is part of the company's global footprint, which includes 266 million customers worldwide. The company's head office is located in Issy-les-Moulineaux, France. The French government, both directly and through its holding company ERAP, continues to hold a stake of almost 27% in the company.