Chad’s us mission to boost digital partnerships with tech giants
A high-level delegation from Chad concluded a week-long strategic mission in Washington last month, marking a pivotal step in the country’s push to modernize its digital infrastructure and expand technological partnerships. Led by the Minister of Telecommunications, Digital Economy, and Digitalization, Haliki Choua Mahamat, the delegation engaged with key American stakeholders and industry leaders to advance critical projects in connectivity, data infrastructure, and public service modernization.
The visit, which took place from May 23 to May 31, 2026, underscores Chad’s commitment to accelerating its digital transformation amid persistent challenges in internet accessibility and technological adoption. Officials met with representatives from the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Commerce, as well as executives from leading tech firms including InterSystems, Starlink, Cybastion, Vertiv, and 19Labs.
During the discussions, both sides explored collaborative opportunities in several priority areas identified by N’Djamena, such as improving national internet coverage, upgrading digital infrastructure, enhancing public service delivery, strengthening cybersecurity, and deploying connected health solutions. These initiatives are seen as essential to Chad’s broader economic diversification and long-term competitiveness in the digital age.
Addressing connectivity gaps
The meetings with Starlink, the satellite internet provider owned by SpaceX, were particularly significant. The Chadian delegation raised concerns about service quality and pricing, noting that internet costs in Chad remain higher than in neighboring African countries. Improving connectivity is viewed as a strategic necessity to meet the growing demands of government agencies, businesses, and citizens alike.
« Reliable and affordable internet access is no longer optional—it is a cornerstone of modern governance and economic growth, » stated a senior official during the talks. « Our goal is to ensure that every Chadian, whether in urban centers or remote areas, can benefit from the digital economy. »
Digital health: transforming care delivery
Beyond telecommunications, the mission also focused on the digitalization of Chad’s healthcare system. Discussions centered on projects to modernize medical data management, patient tracking, and service efficiency across the country’s five university teaching hospitals, 23 regional hospitals, and over 1,000 health centers. The integration of digital tools is expected to significantly improve healthcare outcomes and reduce administrative burdens.
Building local expertise
A key theme of the engagements was capacity building. The Chadian government is prioritizing the development of local skills in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital professions. By fostering homegrown talent and transferring technical knowledge, Chad aims to reduce its reliance on foreign expertise and build a sustainable digital ecosystem.
« We are not just seeking technology transfers—we are investing in our people, » explained a government spokesperson. « Our ambition is to create a generation of Chadian innovators who can lead the country’s digital future. »
From dialogue to action
For Chad, this mission represents more than a series of meetings—it is part of a broader strategy to position the country as a competitive player in Africa’s digital economy. While significant challenges remain, particularly in infrastructure and digital inclusion, the government is determined to turn these discussions into tangible results that will modernize public services, attract investment, and improve the daily lives of its citizens.
The next phase will involve detailed negotiations and the implementation of pilot projects, with the hope that these partnerships will lay the foundation for a more connected, secure, and innovative Chad.
