“Stay Connected in Burkina Faso: A Guide to Internet and SIM Card Availability”

Connectivity in Burkina Faso: A Comprehensive Guide to Internet Access and Local SIM Cards

Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, is known for its vibrant culture, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. However, when it comes to internet access, the country has faced several challenges in the past. In recent years, the government has taken several initiatives to improve connectivity, and as a result, the internet situation in Burkina Faso has improved significantly. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to internet access and local SIM cards in Burkina Faso.

Internet Situation in Burkina Faso

Burkina Faso has made significant progress in improving internet access in recent years. According to a report by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the country’s internet penetration rate was 13.3% in 2019, up from 3.1% in 2010. The government has taken several initiatives to improve connectivity, including the launch of a national fiber-optic backbone network and the implementation of a universal service fund to support the deployment of telecommunications infrastructure in rural areas.

However, despite these efforts, internet access in Burkina Faso is still limited, especially in rural areas. The country’s internet speed is also relatively slow, with an average download speed of 3.5 Mbps, according to a report by Speedtest Global Index. This can make it challenging to stream videos or download large files.

Finding WiFi in Burkina Faso

Finding WiFi in Burkina Faso can be a challenge, especially outside major cities. Most hotels and restaurants in urban areas offer free WiFi, but the quality of the connection can vary. In rural areas, WiFi access is limited, and you may need to rely on mobile data to stay connected.

If you need to access the internet frequently during your stay in Burkina Faso, it may be worth investing in a local SIM card. This will allow you to access the internet on your smartphone or tablet, even when you are outside WiFi coverage areas.

Getting a Local SIM Card in Burkina Faso

Getting a local SIM card in Burkina Faso is relatively easy. You can purchase a SIM card from one of the country’s major mobile network operators, such as Orange, Telmob, or Telecel. SIM cards are available at most mobile phone shops and kiosks, as well as at the airport.

To purchase a SIM card, you will need to provide a valid ID, such as a passport or national ID card. You will also need to register your SIM card with the mobile network operator, as required by law. This is a straightforward process that can be completed at the point of purchase.

Once you have a local SIM card, you can top up your account with credit at any mobile phone shop or kiosk. You can also top up online or through mobile banking services offered by some mobile network operators.

Using Mobile Data in Burkina Faso

Mobile data is the most common way to access the internet in Burkina Faso. The country’s major mobile network operators offer 3G and 4G services, although coverage can be limited in rural areas.

To use mobile data, you will need to purchase a data bundle from your mobile network operator. Data bundles are available in various sizes, ranging from a few megabytes to several gigabytes. The cost of data bundles varies depending on the size of the bundle and the mobile network operator.

It is worth noting that mobile data can be expensive in Burkina Faso, especially if you are a heavy internet user. If you plan to use mobile data frequently during your stay, it may be worth purchasing a larger data bundle to save money.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the internet situation in Burkina Faso has improved significantly in recent years, but there is still room for improvement. Finding WiFi can be a challenge, especially outside major cities, and mobile data can be expensive. However, getting a local SIM card is relatively easy, and it is the most common way to access the internet in Burkina Faso. If you plan to use the internet frequently during your stay, it may be worth investing in a local SIM card and purchasing a data bundle to save money.