Huawei's Commitment to Global Connectivity Exceeds Targets, Reaching 170 Million People

Huawei Surpasses Connectivity Goals with Partner2Connect Initiative

Huawei Technologies recently announced a significant achievement in digital connectivity, providing access to 170 million individuals in remote and underserved regions across more than 80 countries. This milestone was revealed during the TECH Cares forum in Barcelona by Yang Chaobin, CEO of Huawei's ICT Business Group, who emphasized the importance of bridging the digital divide.

The initiative to provide connectivity stems from the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU) Partner2Connect (P2C) commitment, which Huawei joined to target connectivity for 120 million people by 2025. By surpassing this goal well ahead of schedule, Huawei has demonstrated its dedication to improving digital access, enhancing healthcare, education, and financial services in isolated communities.

During the forum, attended by approximately 80 delegates from various sectors including government, industry, and international organizations, discussions centered around the urgent need for digital inclusion in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). Yang highlighted that high-speed digital networks and robust computing capabilities are critical foundations for an inclusive and sustainable AI era. He reiterated that Huawei's achievement reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to innovation in connectivity.

Cosmas Zavazava, director of the ITU's Development Bureau, acknowledged Huawei's progress in reducing the digital divide, stating, "Connecting underserved communities requires innovative business models and sustained investment in local capacities." He praised Huawei's contributions towards meaningful universal connectivity and expressed pride in their fruitful partnership.

Jeff Wang, the President of Public Affairs and Communication at Huawei, explained that digital inclusion relies on two main pillars: inclusive connectivity and digital skills empowerment. To address the existing digital skills gap, Huawei collaborates with governments and organizations to support various groups, including students, young people, seniors, and women, through initiatives aimed at improving digital access, providing skills training, and developing STEM education programs.

Since its launch in 2019, Huawei's "Skills on Wheels" program has successfully trained over 130,000 individuals in 21 countries in mobile digital technologies, unlocking new opportunities for underprivileged communities.

Marina Madale, head of sustainability and shared value at MTN Group, noted that connectivity is a basic infrastructure essential for growth, particularly in Africa. Echoing Wang's insights, she affirmed MTN's commitment to expanding rural connectivity and making devices more affordable while enhancing digital and AI skill development.

In rural network innovation, Huawei has been continuously improving its Rural Series solutions since 2017, making deployment more efficient and accessible. Introduced in November 2025, Huawei RuralCow expands coverage to villages with populations of about 1,500, facilitated through partnerships like that with MTN Nigeria. These innovations have not only expanded connectivity to 170 million people but also contributed to local economies while increasing access to vital public digital services.

Throughout the forum, various stakeholders reported on their collaborative progress with Huawei, expressing eagerness to enhance this cooperation further. All attendees agreed that advancing digital inclusion amidst the AI era demands joint efforts from governments, operators, international organizations, and corporate entities.

Looking forward, Huawei aims to foster innovation in rural network technologies, strengthen open collaboration, and accelerate digital skills empowerment. With concrete actions, the company is dedicated to contributing to a more equitable and sustainable digital world.