Gabon Attends ITU Plenipotentiary Conference in Doha

The Gabonese government is represented at the Plenipotentiary Conference of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in Doha, Qatar, by Minister of Digital Economy, Digitalization, Innovation, and New Technologies, Mark-Alexandre Doumba. The conference, which runs from November 9 to 27, 2026, brings together ITU member states to discuss the organization's strategic direction. The ITU is a specialized agency of the United Nations that focuses on information and communication technologies.

Prior to the conference's official opening, Minister Doumba participated in a ministerial roundtable on November 8, 2026, at the invitation of the host country, Qatar. The roundtable allowed ministers responsible for digital affairs from various countries to share their national priorities and expectations for the sector's future. Minister Doumba highlighted recent initiatives in Gabon, including the Gabon Digital Week and a specialized technical meeting of the African Union.

During the roundtable, Minister Doumba emphasized the Gabonese government's commitment to promoting accessible digital technologies and ensuring the entire population participates in the digital transformation. This commitment aligns with Gabon's bid for a seat on the ITU Council for the 2027-2030 term. The Gabonese delegation aims to contribute to the ITU's work while defending national priorities for digital development.

The Plenipotentiary Conference is the ITU's supreme organ, meeting every four years to define the organization's strategic direction, adopt strategies, and elect its governing bodies, including the 48-member Council. Council members are elected by secret ballot, with each member state having one vote. The conference provides a platform for ITU member states to shape the organization's future.

The ITU plays a crucial role in promoting global cooperation on information and communication technologies. Its work has significant implications for international communication, digital development, and the global information economy. As a specialized agency of the United Nations, the ITU has 193 member states and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

Gabon's participation in the Plenipotentiary Conference demonstrates its commitment to engaging with the international community on digital issues. The country's bid for a seat on the ITU Council reflects its desire to contribute to global discussions on digital development and help shape the ITU's strategic direction. The conference provides an opportunity for Gabon to promote its national priorities and interests.

The outcome of the Plenipotentiary Conference will have implications for the ITU's future work and global digital policies. The conference's decisions will influence the organization's strategic direction, programs, and activities over the next four years. As the ITU continues to play a vital role in shaping the global digital landscape, its member states' active participation and engagement are essential.

Key points

• Gabon is bidding for a seat on the ITU Council for the 2027-2030 term.