African Leaders Demanded Increased Digital Investment
Officials called for stronger infrastructure and skills to bridge the continent's digital divide.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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Mulambo Haimbe, representing President Hakainde Hichilema, urged global leaders to bolster African digital infrastructure and skills. The call came during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Why it matters
Technological growth is outpacing current governance structures, making digital access a prerequisite for meaningful participation in the global artificial intelligence economy.
Currently, 36% of Africa's population is online, marking a significant hurdle for widespread AI adoption. This connectivity rate was presented during the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
The players
Mulambo Haimbe
He represented President Hakainde Hichilema at the United Nations to advocate for regional digital reform.
Hakainde Hichilema
He serves as the President of Zambia and participated in international discussions regarding African development.
United Nations
This international organization provides the platform for member states to address global governance and technological equity.
African Union
This continental body works to coordinate the political, economic, and social integration of African states.
The details
Co-hosted by Zambia, Namibia, the UN Economic Commission for Africa, and the African Union, the event focused on implementing the Pact for the Future. The initiative integrates the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance to address regulatory gaps.
Timeline
September 2026: The 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly took place in New York.
The Tech Race
This push for regional infrastructure investment extends the framework established by the Global Digital Compact to ensure equitable development. It signals a move away from passive adoption toward active participation in the global AI governance architecture.
Improved digital infrastructure could significantly enhance access to essential online services and global digital markets for millions of residents. The focus on AI governance ensures that future digital tools remain accessible and safe for a broader range of global users.
The takeaway
Bridging the digital divide is essential for ensuring that emerging technologies benefit developing nations rather than increasing global inequality. Policymakers must align infrastructure investment with robust governance to manage the rapid pace of technological change.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest global initiatives at the Artificial Intelligence section.
Live Poll
Should national governments prioritize funding for digital infrastructure to improve economic competitiveness?
