(Ecofin Agency) - The European Investment Bank (EIB) said it will channel a series of projects to help Chad quickly achieve digital transformation. Through a deal signed last Dec 11 with the Chadian authorities, the European Union's financial institution agreed to provide technical expertise in three feasibility studies.

Each of the studies will focus on the provision of high-speed Internet, improved telecommunications, and the provision of better connectivity to remote rural communities, which are essential components of the government's plan to double the economic contribution of ICTs in the coming years.

"A high-impact investment in digitalization is essential to strengthen future economic growth and social progress in landlocked Chad. The new cooperation with the European Investment Bank will enable Chad to benefit from technical expertise and best practices in the digital sector," said Idriss Bachar Saleh, Minister of Posts and the Digital Economy.

Issa Doubragne, the Minister of Economy, Development Planning and International Cooperation, believes that "this new investment will strengthen Chad's resilience to the economic and social impact of Covid-19 and unlock sustainable development in the years to come."