Chad’s digital transformation drive: n’djamena secures key tech partnerships in Washington

Chad is actively pursuing its strategy to engage with international technology partners. A government delegation, led by Haliki Choua Mahamat, the Minister of Telecommunications, Digital Economy, and Digitalization, undertook a significant mission to the United States from May 23 to 31, 2026. During their visit to Washington, the Chadian representatives held a series of meetings with American officials and leading digital sector companies.

This exploratory mission underscores the Chadian authorities’ commitment to accelerating the nation’s digital transformation. The objective is to harness global expertise, cutting-edge technologies, and new investments to bolster the country’s digital landscape.

The delegation engaged with key figures from the U.S. State Department and the Department of Commerce. They also met with prominent companies specializing in digital infrastructure, connectivity solutions, data centers, cybersecurity, and digital health. Notable firms included InterSystems, Starlink, Cybastion, Vertiv, and 19Labs.

Discussions centered on several projects deemed critical by N’Djamena. These priorities encompass enhancing Internet coverage, strengthening national digital infrastructure, modernizing public services, boosting cybersecurity measures, and implementing connected health solutions across the country.

Addressing the crucial issue of connectivity

A significant part of the mission involved in-depth discussions with Starlink, the satellite internet provider operated by SpaceX. Chadian officials conveyed their concerns regarding the quality of service experienced within the national territory and the pricing structure, which they found less competitive compared to several other African nations.

For the government, improving Internet access remains a strategic imperative. This is particularly vital as traditional telecommunications infrastructure often struggles to meet the growing demands of public administrations, businesses, and the general population.

Leveraging digital for healthcare advancement

Beyond telecommunications, Chad is also determined to accelerate the digital transformation of its healthcare system. Meetings with various American partners focused on projects aimed at digitizing healthcare facilities, including the country’s five university hospital centers, 23 regional hospitals, and over 1,000 local health centers.

The overarching goal is to enhance the management of medical data, improve patient monitoring, and increase the overall efficiency of health services through the strategic application of digital technologies.

Cultivating local expertise and skills

The mission to the United States also provided an opportunity to address critical issues such as training, technology transfer, and the development of national competencies. Chadian authorities expressed a strong desire to strengthen local capabilities in strategic fields like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and various digital professions.

This approach is designed to foster a more robust national technological ecosystem and reduce Chad’s reliance on foreign expertise, promoting sustainable growth within the African digital economy.

Translating dialogue into tangible progress

For N’Djamena, this diplomatic and economic outreach signifies a clear intent to position digital technology as a primary driver for diversifying and modernizing the national economy. While Chad continues to face substantial challenges in connectivity and digital inclusion, the authorities are optimistic that these productive exchanges will translate into concrete projects. Such initiatives are crucial for long-term improvements in infrastructure, public services, and Chad’s competitiveness in the broader African economy news landscape.