The company had committed in 2022 to connect 120 million people by 2025.
Huawei has announced that it has provided digital connectivity to 170 million people in remote areas across more than 80 countries, exceeding its pledge to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Partner2Connect (P2C) Digital Coalition. The company had committed in 2022 to connect 120 million people by 2025.
The announcement was made by Yang Chaobin, CEO of Huawei ICT BG, at the TECH Cares Forum in Barcelona, where he thanked Huawei’s telecom customers and partners for their collaborative efforts. The forum brought together around 80 guests from governments, industries, partner organizations, and international bodies to discuss advancing digital inclusion in the AI era.
“High-speed digital networks and robust computing capabilities are essential foundations for an inclusive and sustainable AI era.”
– Yang Chaobin, CEO, Huawei ICT BG
He highlighted that Huawei’s work brings improved access to healthcare, education, and financial services for remote communities.
Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau, praised Huawei’s efforts, noting:
“Connecting the rural and underserved communities requires innovative business models, inclusivity and the effective use of communication resources as well as community engagement, and sustained investment in local capacity. I applaud Huawei’s commitment to universal and meaningful connectivity and I am proud of our strong and successful partnership.”
– Cosmas Zavazava, Director, ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau
To address the digital skills gap, Huawei has partnered with governments and organizations through initiatives such as Skills on Wheels, which has trained over 130,000 people in 21 countries since 2019, supporting youth, women, and underserved communities in digital literacy and STEM education.
Marina Madale, Executive of Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN Group, highlighted the importance of rural connectivity, device affordability, and AI-ready skills, calling connectivity “foundational infrastructure for Africa’s growth.”
Huawei has also advanced rural network innovation, continuously upgrading its Rural Series solutions since 2017. The recently launched RuralCow solution, supported by MTN Nigeria, extends coverage to villages of around 1,500 residents, contributing to the achievement of the 170 million connected individuals while supporting local economic development.
The TECH Cares Forum concluded with all participants emphasizing the need for continued collaboration among governments, operators, international organizations, and enterprises to advance digital inclusion. Huawei reaffirmed its commitment to driving innovation in rural networks, expanding open partnerships, and accelerating digital skills empowerment to foster a more equitable and sustainable digital world.
