Tchad’s digital push gathers momentum in Washington talks

The government of N’Djamena is stepping up efforts to transform the country’s digital landscape through strategic partnerships forged during a high-profile mission to Washington at the end of May 2026. Led by Haliki Choua Mahamat, the Minister of Telecommunications, Digital Economy and Digitalization, the delegation engaged with key American officials and leading tech companies to accelerate the country’s technological modernization.

The week-long visit, which ran from May 23 to 31, 2026, was designed to attract investment, technical expertise and innovative solutions to address persistent challenges in connectivity, public services and healthcare.

Broadening technological horizons with global partners

The delegation’s agenda included meetings with representatives from the U.S. State Department and the Department of Commerce, focusing on collaboration in digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, data centers and connected health solutions. Among the American companies engaged were InterSystems, Starlink, Cybastion, Vertiv and 19Labs.

Discussions centered on priority projects aimed at improving internet access, upgrading national digital infrastructure, modernizing public services and deploying connected health solutions across the country.

Addressing urgent connectivity concerns

A key focus of the mission was the engagement with Starlink, the satellite internet provider. The Chadian delegation raised concerns about service quality and pricing, which officials deemed less competitive compared to other African markets. Given the limitations of traditional telecom networks in meeting growing demand from government agencies, businesses and citizens, enhancing internet access remains a national priority.

Digital health transformation takes center stage

Beyond telecommunications, the mission highlighted plans to modernize the health sector through digitalization. Discussions with American partners focused on projects to digitize public hospitals, regional health centers and over 1,000 local clinics. The goal is to improve patient monitoring, streamline medical data management and enhance the efficiency of healthcare delivery.

Building local digital talent and expertise

The mission also addressed workforce development, with a focus on training and technology transfer in strategic fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and digital professions. The aim is to cultivate a robust national tech ecosystem, reduce reliance on foreign expertise and empower local professionals to drive sustainable digital growth.

From dialogue to action: turning partnerships into progress

For N’Djamena, this diplomatic and economic outreach underscores a commitment to making digital transformation a cornerstone of national development. By leveraging international partnerships, the government aims to upgrade infrastructure, improve public services and enhance the country’s competitiveness in Africa’s digital economy.