The Republic of South Africa has formally nominated Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Cynthia Lesufi, for the position of Secretary-General of the African Telecommunications Union (ATU). The nomination was announced by the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies in March 2026. The ATU is a specialized agency of the African Union focused on developing information and communication technologies across the continent.
Cynthia Lesufi currently serves as the Deputy Minister in the South African government, a role she has held since her appointment by President Cyril Ramaphosa. Her portfolio includes significant work in digital policy and telecommunications regulation. The nomination aligns with South Africa's strategic goal to play a leading role in shaping Africa's digital transformation agenda.
The election for the ATU Secretary-General position is scheduled for the union's upcoming conference. If successful, Lesufi would lead the organization's efforts to harmonize telecom policies, promote infrastructure development, and advocate for affordable access across Africa. The nomination underscores the importance of regional collaboration in bridging the digital divide.
