Bouake Transport et Services Partners with FasterCapital to Transform Côte d’Ivoire’s Interurban Travel
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire South Africa & Dubai, UAE – July 22 2025
Bouaké Transport et Services Sarl (B.T.S.), a leading interurban bus operator in Côte d’Ivoire, today announced a strategic partnership with FasterCapital through its LaunchUp program. This collaboration aims to accelerate B.T.S.’s expansion into underserved routes, including the new Daoukro-Abidjan line, by leveraging FasterCapital’s global expertise, capital-raising support, and innovation-driven resources to meet growing demand for safe, comfortable, and reliable intercity transport.
Market Opportunity & Problem Statement
West Africa’s transport sector is rapidly evolving amid increasing urbanization and rising demand for enhanced intercity travel. Côte d’Ivoire faces significant challenges with aging fleets and overcrowded routes, particularly on lines like Daoukro-Abidjan. Traditional operators rely on outdated mini-buses (“Massa”) that lack comfort and frequently break down, creating a critical gap for premium, climate-controlled bus services. This white space presents a substantial opportunity for innovative providers like B.T.S. to capture growing passenger volumes seeking safer and more reliable travel options.
Startup Solution & Differentiation
Bouake Transport et Services stands out by operating a modern fleet of 40 new, 50-seat YBL6128H buses equipped with air conditioning, onboard toilets, Wi-Fi, microwaves, and video entertainment. Serving key routes such as Bouake–Abidjan and Bouake–Yamoussoukro, B.T.S. transports over 1,000 passengers daily on some lines, demonstrating strong market traction. The company’s focus on customer experience, competitive pricing, and operational excellence positions it ahead of traditional mini-bus competitors. Early partnerships with corporate clients like TOTAL C.I. and the Itty gold mine further validate demand and revenue potential.
FasterCapital Partnership Value
Through its selective LaunchUp program, FasterCapital provides B.T.S. with strategic mentorship, access to a global investor network, and tailored capital-raising support designed to accelerate scaling. FasterCapital’s rigorous selection criteria ensure collaboration with startups possessing scalable business models and strong market fit. This partnership will expedite B.T.S.’s fleet expansion, integration of advanced ticketing and customer service technologies, and operational optimization, fast-tracking the company’s journey to market leadership while reinforcing FasterCapital’s commitment to innovation in emerging markets.
Executive Quotes
Hesham Zreik, Founder and CEO of FasterCapital, said:
“Bouake Transport et Services exemplifies the transformative startups we seek to empower—addressing critical infrastructure gaps with innovative, customer-focused solutions. Our LaunchUp program is designed to provide the capital, strategic guidance, and global market access needed to accelerate such ventures. We are excited to support B.T.S. as they redefine interurban transport in Côte d’Ivoire and set new standards across West Africa.”
Mr. Kouassi Kouakou, CEO of Bouake Transport et Services, stated:
“Partnering with FasterCapital marks a pivotal milestone for B.T.S. Our vision is to deliver safe, comfortable, and reliable transport solutions that meet the evolving needs of Ivorian travelers. With FasterCapital’s support, we will accelerate fleet modernization, expand into underserved routes like Daoukro-Abidjan, and enhance our service offerings. Together, we aim to elevate West African transport and contribute to regional economic growth.”
Growth Trajectory & Future Plans
B.T.S. plans to deploy the first tranche of 40 premium buses across existing and new routes by Q2 2025, including the high-demand Daoukro-Abidjan corridor. The company will launch an online ticketing platform to improve customer convenience and operational efficiency. Expansion into corporate transport contracts with TOTAL C.I. and the Itty mine will diversify revenue streams. Over five years, B.T.S. targets a compound annual growth rate exceeding 30%, supported by ongoing fleet upgrades and geographic expansion throughout Côte d’Ivoire. The company is actively seeking $6 million in funding to realize these objectives and solidify its market leadership.
About Bouake Transport et Services (B.T.S.)
Founded to modernize interurban transport in Côte d’Ivoire, Bouake Transport et Services operates a fleet of climate-controlled buses equipped with onboard amenities such as toilets, Wi-Fi, and entertainment systems. Serving major routes including Bouake–Abidjan and Bouake–Yamoussoukro, B.T.S. is committed to providing safe, reliable, and comfortable travel options tailored to growing urban and corporate passenger segments.
About FasterCapital
FasterCapital is a global startup accelerator and venture capital firm specializing in early-stage technology ventures across emerging markets. Its LaunchUp program offers startups comprehensive support including funding, mentorship, and access to international investor networks. With a proven track record of scaling innovative companies, FasterCapital focuses on sectors such as fintech, transport, and digital services, driving economic growth and technological advancement worldwide.