• Chad held talks with major U.S. technology companies, including Starlink, InterSystems, Cybastion, Vertiv and 19Labs, to attract expertise and investment.
• Authorities discussed projects covering connectivity, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, e-government services and digital healthcare.
• Chad raised concerns with Starlink over service quality and pricing while seeking broader improvements in internet access and digital inclusion.

Chad intensified its efforts to establish partnerships with leading global technology companies during a mission to Washington from May 23 to May 31.

Telecommunications, Digital Economy and Digitalization Minister Haliki Choua Mahamat led the delegation, which held discussions with several U.S. stakeholders operating in technology, infrastructure and digital healthcare.

The government sought to attract expertise and investment capable of accelerating the country's digital transformation and supporting broader economic modernization.

During the visit, Chadian officials met representatives from the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Commerce and several major technology companies, including InterSystems, Starlink, Cybastion, Vertiv and 19Labs.

Participants discussed a range of strategic projects focused on connectivity, digital infrastructure modernization, cybersecurity, public-service digitalization and digital health development.

One of the most sensitive issues involved Starlink's satellite internet services. Chadian officials raised concerns with representatives of the SpaceX subsidiary regarding service quality in Chad and pricing levels that authorities consider higher than those charged in several other African markets.

N'Djamena views improved internet access as a critical priority because existing telecommunications infrastructure remains insufficient to meet growing demand from government agencies, businesses and households.

The diplomatic outreach comes as Chad seeks to position the digital sector as a key driver of economic diversification.

Although the country has recorded progress in recent years, Chad still ranks among the least advanced African nations in terms of connectivity and digital development.

According to the International Telecommunication Union, internet penetration remains below the African average, while access to digital services remains particularly limited in rural areas.

The government also views digital technologies as a tool for modernizing the healthcare system. Discussions with specialized U.S. institutions focused on plans to digitalize the country's five university hospitals, 23 regional hospitals and more than 1,000 health centers.

Authorities aim to improve medical data management, strengthen patient monitoring and expand access to healthcare services through digital technologies.

Beyond infrastructure investments, Chad aims to strengthen domestic technological capabilities. Talks with U.S. partners included training initiatives and technology-transfer programs designed to develop national expertise in digital technologies, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

The government considers those capabilities essential for reducing technological dependence and building a digital ecosystem capable of supporting its long-term economic modernization strategy.

Through this outreach mission, Chad seeks to secure a place within the global technology partnership landscape. The next challenge for policymakers will involve converting discussions held in Washington into concrete projects capable of delivering lasting improvements in connectivity, public services and national economic competitiveness.

Samira Njoya