Zambia’s Mwale Kezias Elected ATU Secretary-General

Member countries of the African Telecommunications Union has elected Mwale Kezias of the Zambia as its new Secretary-General in a keenly contested election held in Abuja at the union’s 7th ordinary session of plenipotentiaries.

Mwaze Kezias secured victory after the fourth round of voting, defeating four other contestants to emerge as the candidate who will steer the affairs of the continental body for the next four years.

Nigeria, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Senegal, Togo and Mali also secured places on the ATU Administrative Council, which is responsible for contributing to the formulation and implementation of policies aimed at advancing telecommunications and digital development across the continent.

The new leadership is expected to harmonise continental policies, strengthen collaboration among member states so the continent will always speak with one voice on global digital matters while promoting greater investment in digital infrastructure and bridge Africa’s digital divide.

Other priorities before the new Secretary-General as he takes over from John Omo who has served 2 terms include improving affordability of digital devices, expanding meaningful connectivity and advancing innovation and emerging technologies. These efforts are expected to create greater digital access and opportunities for the continent.