The Connectivity for Refugees (CfR) initiative is gaining momentum in its mission to promote digital inclusion for 20 million forcibly displaced people and host communities by 2030. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) are expanding partnerships in Chad and other refugee-hosting countries to provide affordable and accessible internet connectivity that can transform lives through education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
During a two-day visit to Chad, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, GSMA Foundation President John Giusti, and UNHCR Deputy High Commissioner Kelly T. Clements observed how digital tools are helping refugees and local residents move toward self-reliance. The visit focused on reinforcing regulatory and infrastructure frameworks to advance the CfR initiative, which was launched at the 2023 Global Refugee Forum as a global pledge to improve connectivity in major refugee-hosting regions.
In Chad, where approximately 1.5 million refugees—mostly from Sudan—reside, the government has prioritized digital inclusion through its “Tchad Connexion 2030” plan. Local mobile operators such as Airtel Chad and Moov have upgraded infrastructure to connect remote areas, while Luxembourg’s Emergency.LU is deploying satellite systems to establish four connected learning hubs in refugee settlements. These centres in Djabal, Farchana, Idrimi, and Oure Cassoni will provide vital access to education and communication services for both refugees and host communities.
The CfR initiative seeks to mobilize $20 million in core support and at least $200 million in direct investments to expand infrastructure and remove regulatory barriers to connectivity for displaced populations. UNHCR and ITU are also working closely with partners such as the GSMA, which connects mobile network operators with humanitarian organizations, and development institutions like the World Bank and International Finance Corporation (IFC) to integrate refugee needs into broader digital infrastructure programs.
By bridging the digital divide in crisis-affected regions, the partnership between UNHCR, ITU, and GSMA demonstrates how technology can restore dignity, opportunity, and hope for millions of displaced people while fostering inclusive and resilient communities.
