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Huawei's Remarkable Achievement in Global Connectivity

In March 2026, Huawei proudly announced that it has provided digital connectivity to 170 million people living in remote areas across more than 80 countries. This significant milestone not only demonstrates Huawei's capabilities but also showcases its commitment to the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU) Partner2Connect Digital Coalition, as it has exceeded its initial pledge of connecting 120 million individuals by 2025.

Yang Chaobin, the CEO of Huawei's ICT Business Group, revealed this achievement during the TECH Cares Forum in Barcelona, Spain. Yang expressed gratitude toward the telecommunications customers and partners for their collaborative efforts, emphasizing the importance of reliable connectivity in today's era of artificial intelligence (AI). Despite the rapid advancement of AI, he noted that a digital divide persists, risking further inequality. He stated, "Fast digital networks and robust computational power are essential foundations for an inclusive and sustainable AI era."

The forum gathered around 80 attendees from various sectors, including government officials, industry representatives, partner organizations, and international institutions. Participants engaged in deep discussions about the urgent need to accelerate digital inclusion during the AI age, exploring practical solutions and building consensus for multi-stakeholder cooperation.

Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau, praised Huawei's accomplishments in reducing the digital divide. He remarked, "Connecting rural and underserved communities requires innovative business models, inclusivity, efficient resource utilization, community engagement, and long-term investments in local skills." Zavazava expressed appreciation for Huawei's commitment to universal connectivity and the fruitful collaboration between ITU and Huawei.

Jeff Wang, Huawei's Head of Public Relations, highlighted that digital inclusion is reliant on two pillars: inclusive connectivity and the development of digital skills. To address the skills gap, Huawei collaborates with governments and organizations, supporting students, youth, seniors, and women through three initiatives: expanding digital access, offering digital skills training, and developing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) educational programs.

Since its launch in 2019, Huawei's Skills on Wheels program has provided mobile digital training to over 130,000 individuals in 21 countries, unlocking new opportunities for communities with limited access to services.

Marina Madale, Director of Sustainability and Shared Value at MTN Group, emphasized that connectivity is not a privilege but a vital infrastructure crucial for Africa's development. Aligning with Jeff Wang's position, she noted that MTN prioritizes the extension of connectivity in rural areas and the enhancement of device availability and digital skills necessary to harness AI potential.

In terms of rural network innovation, Huawei has continuously improved its Rural series solutions since 2017, enhancing their affordability and deployment efficiency. Launched in November 2025, the Huawei RuralCow solution, supported by MTN Nigeria, extends coverage to villages with approximately 1,500 residents. These solutions have not only achieved the goal of connecting 170 million people but also stimulated local economies and granted wider access to digital public services.

During the forum, attendees shared their progress made through collaboration with Huawei and expressed their readiness to deepen this partnership. There was a unanimous agreement among participants that advancing digital inclusion in the AI era necessitates joint efforts from governments, operators, international organizations, and enterprises.

Moving forward, Huawei is committed to continuing innovation in rural network technologies, fostering open collaboration, and accelerating the development of digital competencies. Through concrete actions, the company aims to consistently contribute to building a fairer and more sustainable digital world.