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Huawei connects 170m people under global digital inclusion drive

March 09, 2026 00:00:00


Huawei has provided digital connectivity to 170 million people in more than 80 countries, surpassing its 2022 commitment to the International Telecommunication Union's Partner2Connect Digital Coalition.

The announcement was made by Yang Chaobin, CEO of Huawei ICT Business Group, during the TECH Cares Forum at Mobile World Congress 2026 in Barcelona. Huawei had pledged to connect 120 million people in remote areas by 2025 but achieved the target a year early.

Yang said that despite rapid advances in AI, the digital divide remains a major challenge, stressing that high-speed networks and computing capacity are essential for an inclusive AI era and improved access to healthcare, education and financial services.

Cosmas Zavazava of the ITU praised the effort, noting that bridging connectivity gaps requires innovative business models and sustained investment.

Huawei's initiatives include digital skills programmes such as "Skills on Wheels" and rural connectivity solutions developed with MTN Nigeria.


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