Chad is actively pursuing its strategy to engage with international technology partners. A high-level government delegation, led by the Minister of Telecommunications, Digital Economy, and Digitalization, Haliki Choua Mahamat, undertook a significant visit to the United States from May 23 to May 31, 2026. During their time in Washington, D.C., the delegation held a series of crucial meetings with American officials and prominent companies in the digital sector.
This exploratory mission to Washington aligns with the Chadian authorities’ commitment to accelerate the nation’s digital transformation. The objective is to harness global expertise, cutting-edge technologies, and new investments to propel Chad forward in the digital age.
Throughout their engagements, the delegation met with representatives from the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Commerce, alongside several specialized firms in digital infrastructure, connectivity, data centers, cybersecurity, and digital health. Key companies included InterSystems, Starlink, Cybastion, Vertiv, and 19Labs.
Discussions centered on various projects deemed essential by N’Djamena, such as enhancing internet coverage, fortifying national digital infrastructure, modernizing public services, bolstering cybersecurity measures, and implementing connected health solutions.
Addressing Critical Connectivity Challenges
A significant aspect of the mission involved in-depth discussions with Starlink, the satellite internet provider from SpaceX. Chadian officials conveyed their concerns regarding the perceived quality of service within the national territory and the current pricing structure, which they found less competitive compared to several other African nations.
For the government, improving internet access remains a strategic imperative, particularly as traditional telecommunications infrastructure struggles to meet the growing demands of public administrations, businesses, and the general populace.
Leveraging Digital for Healthcare Advancement
Beyond telecommunications, Chad is also determined to accelerate the digital transformation of its healthcare system. Conversations with various American partners focused on projects aimed at digitizing healthcare facilities, including the country’s five university hospitals, 23 regional hospitals, and over 1,000 health centers.
The stated goal is to enhance medical data management, patient tracking, and the overall efficiency of health services through the adoption of digital technologies.
Cultivating Local Expertise
The American mission also provided an opportunity to address vital issues concerning training, technology transfer, and the development of national capabilities. Chadian authorities expressed their desire to strengthen local competencies in strategic areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and various digital professions.
This approach seeks to foster a more robust national technological ecosystem and reduce the nation’s reliance on foreign expertise.
Translating Dialogue into Tangible Progress
For N’Djamena, this diplomatic and economic outreach underscores a clear commitment to positioning digital technology as a primary catalyst for diversifying and modernizing the national economy. As Chad continues to face significant challenges in connectivity and digital inclusion, authorities are hopeful that these discussions will evolve into concrete projects. These initiatives are expected to bring lasting improvements to infrastructure, public services, and ultimately enhance Chad’s competitiveness within the broader African digital economy.
