Chad is actively pursuing a strategy to engage with global technology partners. A governmental 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 31, 2026. During their time in Washington, the delegation held a series of high-level meetings with prominent American officials and leading digital sector companies.

This exploratory mission to Washington underscores the Chadian authorities’ firm commitment to accelerating the nation’s digital transformation. The primary goal is to harness international expertise, cutting-edge technologies, and new investments to bolster Chad’s digital landscape.

During their intensive discussions, the delegation engaged with representatives from the U.S. Department of State and the Department of Commerce. They also met with several specialized firms focusing on digital infrastructure, connectivity, data centers, cybersecurity, and digital health. Notable companies included InterSystems, Starlink, Cybastion, Vertiv, and 19Labs.

Key discussions centered on projects deemed essential by N’Djamena, such as enhancing internet coverage, strengthening national digital infrastructure, modernizing public services, ensuring robust cybersecurity, and implementing connected health solutions across the country.

Addressing crucial connectivity challenges

A significant aspect of the mission involved direct engagement with Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet provider. Chadian officials conveyed their concerns regarding the observed quality of service within the national territory and expressed reservations about the pricing structure, which they found less competitive compared to several other African nations.

For the government, improving internet access remains a strategic priority, especially as traditional telecommunications infrastructure continues to struggle in meeting the escalating demands of public administrations, businesses, and the general populace.

Digital solutions for healthcare advancement

Beyond telecommunications, Chad is also determined to accelerate the digital transformation of its healthcare system. Discussions with various American partners focused on initiatives for digitizing healthcare facilities, encompassing the country’s five university hospitals, 23 regional hospitals, and over 1,000 health centers.

The stated objective is to enhance medical data management, streamline patient tracking, and boost the overall efficiency of health services through the strategic application of digital technologies.

Fostering local expertise and capabilities

The American mission also provided an opportunity to address vital matters concerning training, technology transfer, and the development of national competencies. Chadian authorities are keen to reinforce local capacities in strategic domains such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and various digital professions.

This proactive approach aims to cultivate a more resilient and robust national technology ecosystem, thereby reducing the nation’s reliance on foreign expertise.

Translating dialogue into tangible achievements

For N’Djamena, this diplomatic and economic outreach signifies a clear intent to position digital innovation as a primary driver for diversifying and modernizing the national economy. As Chad continues to face substantial hurdles in connectivity and digital inclusion, authorities are now hopeful that these productive exchanges will translate into concrete projects, capable of sustainably improving infrastructure, public services, and Chad’s competitive edge within the African digital economy.