In the Central African Republic (CAR), the mobile market in February 2026 is seeing a major modernization push. The big news this year is Moov Africa Centrafrique finally receiving its global 4G license, joining Orange and Telecel in the race to "democratize" high-speed data across the country.
Major Carrier Offers
Connectivity remains centered in Bangui and provincial capitals, with 4G now becoming the standard for urban users.
* Telecel RCA: Currently holding a strong position with specialized tourist and local data packs.
* Prepaid Data Tiers:
* 1GB (7 Days): 3,000 CFA (~$4.90)
* 3GB (30 Days): 10,000 CFA (~$16.30)
* 7GB (30 Days): 15,000 CFA (~$24.50)
* 15GB (30 Days): 25,000 CFA (~$40.80)
* Activation: Standard packages can be managed via the code *885#.
* Orange Centrafrique:
* Kete Songo & Kota Songo: These "Mixed" plans are the most popular, combining Orange-to-Orange minutes with all-network SMS.
* Orange Money: This remains the most popular way to buy "Pass Internet" (data packs). Using the Orange Ti Mbi app often unlocks "Bons Plans" (promotions) not available via USSD.
* Moov Africa Centrafrique:
* The 4G Pivot: With their new 2026 4G license, Moov is aggressively rolling out new high-speed towers. Look for their "Promo 4G" data packs, which are currently priced to undercut Orange in Bangui.
Smartphone & Device Deals
Most high-end hardware is found in Bangui's city center or through carrier boutiques.
* Samsung Galaxy S26 Series:
* Status: Launched globally this month (Feb 2026). It is slowly trickling into high-end shops in Bangui.
* Galaxy S25 Ultra: Seeing price drops as the S26 arrives, currently retailing for approximately 650,000–720,000 CFA.
* iPhone 17 Series:
* The iPhone 17 Pro Max is available through specialized importers but commands a massive premium (upwards of 1,100,000 CFA).
* Budget Favorites: Because of the economic climate, Itel and Tecno remain the most sold brands. The Itel A70 and Tecno Spark series are frequently bundled with Telecel or Orange SIM cards.
Visitor & Tourist Information
If you are landing at Bangui M’Poko International Airport (BGF):
* Local SIM: A starter SIM costs about 1,000 CFA. Registration with a passport is mandatory and strictly enforced.
* Travel eSIMs (2026 Picks):
* YellowSim: Offers a 1GB/7-day plan for $10 and a 5GB/30-day plan for $45.
* eSIM4Travel: Currently one of the cheapest for CAR, with 1GB plans starting around $6.21.
* Cellesim: Offers a unique "3G Data Only" plan starting at $12.07 for those who only need basic messaging.
Important Notes for 2026
* Network Reliability: While 4G is expanding, speeds can be inconsistent during peak hours. Orange generally provides the best overall coverage in the provinces, while Telecel and Moov are very competitive within Bangui.
* Connectivity Recovery: The government is currently running an "Emergency Infrastructure Project" (through Dec 2026) to repair towers in conflict-affected zones, so expect improved signals in the northern regions.
* Currency: All local transactions are in CFA Francs (XAF).
Major Carrier Offers
Connectivity remains centered in Bangui and provincial capitals, with 4G now becoming the standard for urban users.
* Telecel RCA: Currently holding a strong position with specialized tourist and local data packs.
* Prepaid Data Tiers:
* 1GB (7 Days): 3,000 CFA (~$4.90)
* 3GB (30 Days): 10,000 CFA (~$16.30)
* 7GB (30 Days): 15,000 CFA (~$24.50)
* 15GB (30 Days): 25,000 CFA (~$40.80)
* Activation: Standard packages can be managed via the code *885#.
* Orange Centrafrique:
* Kete Songo & Kota Songo: These "Mixed" plans are the most popular, combining Orange-to-Orange minutes with all-network SMS.
* Orange Money: This remains the most popular way to buy "Pass Internet" (data packs). Using the Orange Ti Mbi app often unlocks "Bons Plans" (promotions) not available via USSD.
* Moov Africa Centrafrique:
* The 4G Pivot: With their new 2026 4G license, Moov is aggressively rolling out new high-speed towers. Look for their "Promo 4G" data packs, which are currently priced to undercut Orange in Bangui.
Smartphone & Device Deals
Most high-end hardware is found in Bangui's city center or through carrier boutiques.
* Samsung Galaxy S26 Series:
* Status: Launched globally this month (Feb 2026). It is slowly trickling into high-end shops in Bangui.
* Galaxy S25 Ultra: Seeing price drops as the S26 arrives, currently retailing for approximately 650,000–720,000 CFA.
* iPhone 17 Series:
* The iPhone 17 Pro Max is available through specialized importers but commands a massive premium (upwards of 1,100,000 CFA).
* Budget Favorites: Because of the economic climate, Itel and Tecno remain the most sold brands. The Itel A70 and Tecno Spark series are frequently bundled with Telecel or Orange SIM cards.
Visitor & Tourist Information
If you are landing at Bangui M’Poko International Airport (BGF):
* Local SIM: A starter SIM costs about 1,000 CFA. Registration with a passport is mandatory and strictly enforced.
* Travel eSIMs (2026 Picks):
* YellowSim: Offers a 1GB/7-day plan for $10 and a 5GB/30-day plan for $45.
* eSIM4Travel: Currently one of the cheapest for CAR, with 1GB plans starting around $6.21.
* Cellesim: Offers a unique "3G Data Only" plan starting at $12.07 for those who only need basic messaging.
Important Notes for 2026
* Network Reliability: While 4G is expanding, speeds can be inconsistent during peak hours. Orange generally provides the best overall coverage in the provinces, while Telecel and Moov are very competitive within Bangui.
* Connectivity Recovery: The government is currently running an "Emergency Infrastructure Project" (through Dec 2026) to repair towers in conflict-affected zones, so expect improved signals in the northern regions.
* Currency: All local transactions are in CFA Francs (XAF).
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