Mwale Kezias Elected ATU Secretary-General for 2027-2030

Mwale Kezias from Zambia has been elected as the Secretary-General of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) for the term 2027–2030, securing 21 votes in the election held during the 7th Ordinary Session of the ATU Conference of Plenipotentiaries (CPL-26) in Abuja. He defeated South Africa’s Cynthia Lesufi, who received eight votes, and Cameroon’s Vallery Ottou, who garnered five votes.

The election concluded after four rounds, with Kezias achieving a simple majority after the first three rounds did not yield a two-thirds majority. In his acceptance speech, Kezias expressed gratitude to ATU member states and committed to collaborating with various stakeholders to address Africa's digital divide.

He emphasized the importance of ensuring that no country or community is left behind, particularly vulnerable groups. Kezias outlined his goals to expand connectivity, promote digital inclusion, strengthen cybersecurity, and enhance Africa's influence in global digital policy.

Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union, also underscored the need for African-led digital development.