Lebanon has formed a new cabinet, introducing a dedicated Ministry of State for Information Technology and AI, marking a significant shift toward digital transformation. This new ministry has been merged with the Ministry of the Displaced, reflecting a streamlined approach to governance. Additionally, leadership changes in the Ministry of Telecommunications signal a renewed focus on advancing the country’s telecom and digital infrastructure.
A Lebanon First... Minister of State for Information Technology and AI
For the first time, Lebanon has elected a Minister of State for Information Technology and AI as part of the newly formed cabinet led by Nawaf Salam.
Kamal Shehadi will lead this ministry, which has been merged with the Ministry of the Displaced. Shehadi, a leader in the fields of telecommunications and technology, stressed the necessity of keeping pace with multifaceted transformation to maintain Lebanon’s digital development.
Shehadi earned an honors Bachelor’s Degree from Harvard University in Boston and a PhD from Columbia University in New York.
Shehadi has an extensive career in strategy, regulatory affairs, and leadership across the telecom and technology sectors. He currently serves as a Strategy and Regulatory Advisor at Alghanim Industries and a Partner at THX Ventures while also being a Board of Trustees member at the Lebanese American University. Previously, he was Chairman of Atlantique Telecom, held multiple leadership roles at e&, including Chief Strategy Officer (International) and Chief Legal and Regulatory Officer, and served on the boards of Maroc Telecom and Etisalat Nigeria. He also chaired the GSMA’s Chief Policy and Regulatory Officers Group (CPROG) and was Chairman and CEO of Lebanon’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority.
New Minister of Telecommunications
In addition, Lebanon's Prime Minister, Nawaf Salam, also appointed Charles Hage as Lebanon’s new Minister of Telecommunications.
Before entering public affairs, Hage began his career in the field of engineering. He is a prominent Lebanese figure who has held numerous important positions throughout his career. Hage previously served as the President of the Maronite Foundation, which aims to strengthen the ties between Lebanese expatriates and their homeland, Lebanon.
Hage aims to focus on improving Lebanon’s telecommunications sector, which forms the backbone of economic, social, and political life in Lebanon.
"We will be serious and transparent in our work at the ministry, and the work ahead will be extensive," he concluded.
