By Jameson Mutua
Huawei has connected 170 million people in remote and underserved communities across more than 80 countries, surpassing its commitment under the International Telecommunication Union Partner2Connect Digital Coalition.
The milestone was announced by Yang Chaobin, CEO of Huawei ICT Business Group, during the company’s TECH Cares Forum in Barcelona. Huawei had pledged in 2022 to connect 120 million people in remote areas by 2025.
Yang said the achievement reflects strong collaboration with telecom operators and global partners. He noted that despite rapid advances in artificial intelligence, the digital divide persists, underscoring the need for high-speed networks and robust computing infrastructure to ensure inclusive development.
Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau, commended Huawei’s contribution, saying meaningful connectivity requires innovative models, inclusivity, community engagement, and sustained local investment.
Huawei also highlighted its digital skills programmes. Since 2019, its Skills on Wheels initiative has trained more than 130,000 people in 21 countries, supporting employment and entrepreneurship in underserved regions.
Marina Madale of MTN Group emphasised the importance of rural coverage expansion, device affordability, and digital skills development in driving Africa’s growth.
In a keynote address, Kenya’s Special Envoy for Technology to the United Nations, Philip Thigo, warned that without deliberate action, the digital divide could become an existential divide. He called for coordinated investment in connectivity, computing, data, talent, and governance to ensure countries can build, not just consume, artificial intelligence solutions.
Huawei said continued innovation in rural network solutions, including deployments targeting small villages, has been key to reaching the 170 million milestone while expanding access to healthcare, education, and financial services.
