DRC’s bid for ITU council seat: Mpanda seeks global backing

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is making bold diplomatic moves to secure a seat on the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council during the upcoming Plenipotentiary Conference in Doha, Qatar, this November. Minister of Posts and Telecommunications José Mpanda Kabangu hosted a high-profile gathering at Kinshasa’s Hilton Hotel late Wednesday, July 16, 2026, to rally support from ambassadors, diplomatic mission chiefs, and international telecom sector leaders for the country’s candidacy.

The initiative underscores the DRC’s strategic vision to elevate its standing in global digital governance. Speaking to the assembled diplomats, Minister Mpanda emphasized the nation’s unique position as the conventional seat of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU) and its potential to champion African interests in ITU decision-making processes. « Our bid is not just about representation—it’s about positioning the DRC as a pivotal voice in shaping international telecom policies while advancing Africa’s digital transformation agenda. »

Key arguments presented by the minister included the DRC’s role in fostering regional connectivity, its vast energy resources critical for telecom infrastructure, and its commitment to inclusive digital growth. With over 110 million citizens and 74 million mobile subscriptions, the DRC represents one of Africa’s largest digital markets, making it a strategic player in the continent’s tech ecosystem.

Christian Katende, President of the DRC’s Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ARPTC), outlined four core commitments tied to the candidacy: strengthening Africa’s voice within the ITU, driving investments in networks and data centers, advocating for balanced digital governance, and fostering knowledge-sharing among African regulators. « Supporting the DRC’s bid means choosing an Africa that doesn’t just adapt to digital change but actively shapes it—one that invests in innovation, nurtures local talent, and builds a responsible digital future. »

Deputy Foreign Minister Noëlla Ayeganagato reinforced the government’s diplomatic backing, urging attending envoys to leverage bilateral and multilateral channels to garner support. She highlighted the ITU’s role in advancing sustainable development goals and called for unified advocacy to ensure the DRC’s success.

The formalization of the DRC’s candidacy is scheduled for November 2026 in Doha, where elections will determine the next ITU Council members for the 2027–2030 term.