Tchad forges strategic tech alliances during Washington mission to boost digital future

N’Djamena’s delegation engages with US officials and tech leaders to accelerate national digital transformation and infrastructure upgrades.

Between May 23 and 31, 2026, a high-level delegation from Chad, led by Minister of Telecommunications, Digital Economy and Digitalization Haliki Choua Mahamat, conducted an intensive working mission in Washington. The primary objective: securing strategic partnerships to modernize the country’s digital infrastructure and services.

Washington meetings focus on digital infrastructure and innovation

The Chadian delegation held productive discussions with officials from the US Department of State and Department of Commerce, alongside representatives from leading tech companies including InterSystems, Starlink, Cybastion, Vertiv and 19Labs. These exchanges centered on priority projects identified by N’Djamena to enhance internet connectivity, strengthen national digital infrastructure and modernize public services.

Addressing connectivity challenges with Starlink

Meetings with Starlink, the satellite internet provider from SpaceX, proved particularly significant. Chadian authorities raised concerns about service quality and pricing in the country, which they noted lag behind competitive rates in several other African nations. Improving internet access remains a critical priority for Chad’s government, especially as traditional telecom infrastructure struggles to meet the growing demands of public administrations, businesses and citizens.

Digital health initiatives take center stage

The Chadian delegation also advanced plans to digitalize the healthcare system, with discussions focused on modernizing five university teaching hospitals, 23 regional hospitals and over 1,000 health centers nationwide. The goal is to enhance medical data management, patient monitoring and overall healthcare service efficiency through digital solutions.

Building local digital expertise

Strengthening local digital skills emerged as another key focus of the Washington mission. Chadian authorities emphasized the need to develop national expertise in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and digital professions to reduce dependence on foreign specialists and foster a more robust domestic tech ecosystem.

From dialogue to action: transforming digital ambitions into reality

This strategic outreach reflects N’Djamena’s commitment to positioning digital technology as a catalyst for economic diversification and modernization. By forging partnerships with major US tech firms and engaging with key American institutions, Chad aims to address long-standing connectivity and digital inclusion challenges while boosting its competitiveness in Africa’s evolving digital economy.