Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025

[Opening] Opening of the Regional Parliamentary Track and Welcome Remarks
Deputy Minister of Communication and Information Technology, Tanzania
Chengetai Masango, Head of the IGF Secretariat
Tanzanian Parliament
Adil Suleiman, Senior Policy Officer, African Union Commission
Julia Kronberg, Head of Cooperation, German Embassy, Tanzania

[Parliamentary Session 1] Roundtable Discussion with Members of Parliament: Towards Effective Digital Governance in Africa
The regional Parliamentary Track will start with a roundtable discussion amongst all Members of Parliaments to explore the most pressing digital issues in African countries and regions, specifically regarding data governance. Members of Parliaments will share insights of existing regulatory frameworks in their countries, as well as current trends and prospectives legislations. These priorities and insights will guide the discussions of the regional event and will inform deliberations at the global IGF Parliamentary Track, held alongside the IGF 2025 from 23 to 27 June in Lillestrøm, Norway.

[Parliamentary Session 2] Safeguarding Democracy in the Digital Age: Legislative Priorities and Policy Pathways in Africa
Citizens need to have confidence in the system and institutions of democracy, including electoral processes. However, trust is deteriorating with the rapid spread of misinformation through digital technologies. This session brings together legislators from all African regions to exchange good practices on strengthening institutional resilience against misinformation and lessons learned from diverse regulatory approaches to preserve information integrity.

[Parliamentary Session 3] Striking the Balance: Upholding Freedom of Expression in the Fight Against Cybercrime.
This session unites the architects of Africa’s early WSIS engagements with today’s youth changemakers to reflect on our shared journey and chart the path forward. We’ll revisit the founding principles of multi-stakeholder cooperation established at WSIS, then dive into an open dialogue on how intergenerational alliances can build resilient digital institutions across the continent. Through moderated panels and youth-led breakout labs, participants will co-design a roadmap of priority spanning policy, partnership models, and capacity building to carry Africa’s digital cooperation into the next twenty years.

[Parliamentary Session 4] Intergenerational dialogue on digital cooperation for Africa’s future - road to WSIS+20

[Parliamentary Session 5] Building Truly Inclusive AI Governance Practices in Africa

[Parliamentary Session 6] What is next? Closing of the Regional Parliamentary Track and Insights about the Global IGF
By this time, the discussions at the regional Parliamentary Track will have drawn out the priority areas for parliaments to focus on. Members of Parliaments will be given insights on the IGF 2025 and its global Parliamentary Track, as well as upcoming activities during the IGF 2025.

The advancements of Artificial Intelligence (AI) are profoundly changing our economies and societies. AI is integrating into most aspects of life, producing new efficiencies and enhancing human capacities. Across Africa, (AI) presents unprecedented opportunities to drive inclusive growth, innovation, and public service delivery. In 2024, the Africa Union took a commendable step by developing and adopting a Continental AI Strategy to guide innovation, policy alignment, and ethical deployment across member states. However, the global AI landscape is shifting rapidly shaped by intensifying geopolitical competition, emerging international regulatory frameworks, and transformative AI capabilities. Therefore, Africa is at a pivotal moment in shaping its AI trajectory not to remain as a passive recipient of global rules but as a co-author of international norms, informed by local realities and development goals.

Objective:
The session aims to be visionary, strategic, and action-oriented, reflecting Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities in the global AI landscape. The session will explore how African countries can develop AI ecosystems rooted in local context, ensuring they are not merely consumers of AI, but architects of their own future.

Key Discussion Areas:
1. What roles should African countries play in shaping emerging global AI frameworks? How can we institutionalize Africa’s influence in global AI governance bodies and standards-setting processes? How can Africa assert strategic agency in fora like the UN, G7 Hiroshima Process, and GDC? What institutional mechanisms (e.g., advisory groups, coalitions) are needed to coordinate African voice in multilateral spaces?
2. What is the role of public-private partnerships in bridging the AI skills and infrastructure gap across the continent? What are the gaps in infrastructure, policy, and talent across the continent? And what should governments/states do to address these gaps? How can African states move from strategic vision to coordinated action?
3. What are the barriers to national and regional implementation of the AU AI Strategy?
4.What are the risks of dependency on foreign AI systems?, and how can open-source or regional AI infrastructures offer alternatives?
5.How is ICANN adapting its governance approach to ensure the stability, security, and resilience of the domain name system in the age of autonomous systems and algorithmic decision-making?"
8. How can ICANN support the region in developing resilient, AI-ready internet infrastructure including secure, inclusive access to the DNS and trusted digital identity systems that underpin AI-enabled economies?"
9. How can all stakeholders collaborate to ensure that AI frameworks meaningfully reflect the needs and the rights in Africa?

Expected Outcomes:
● Draft of key African principles for AI governance_
● A proposal to establish a Pan-African AI Governance Coordination Mechanism, interfacing with global bodies (OECD, GDC, UN AI Advisory, etc.)
● Identification of priority areas for capacity building &innovation hubs

Moderator:
Hon. Alhagie Mbow, Chair, Africa IGF MAG

Speakers:

1. Mr. Mehdi Snene, Senior Advisor on AI and Digital Transformation, Office of the UN Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology
2. H.E. Ms. Emma Theofelus, Minister of ICT, Republic of Namibia
3. Dr. Hoda Baraka, Advisor to the Minister for Technology Talent Development, Arab Republic of Egypt

Rapporteur:
Dr. Khouzeifi Issakha Doud-Bane, AfIGF MAG Member

Participation
This session does not include public remote participation.

Home to the youngest population on the planet, 70 percent of whom are under age 30, Africa has one of the fastest-growing Internet penetration rates in the world. Internet connectivity is growing by leaps and bounds – from 1.2 percent in 2000 to 43 percent in 2021 – driven by a digitally savvy, young, and educated urban workforce for whom adopting and using online services is second nature.

Launched on 01 December 2022, The Coalition for Digital Africa is an initiative that aims to bring together stakeholders to expand the Internet in Africa.

The Coalition promotes innovation and encourages entrepreneurial efforts aimed at strengthening Internet infrastructure to support the development of Africa’s digital economy.
The Coalition for Digital Africa will create affinity among Internet access providers, content providers, public and private sector actors, and others to enable an Internet that is useful and empowering for people across Africa
By working together, pooling resources, and helping each stakeholder develop specific capacities, the benefits provided through each initiative will be maximized.

The Coalition for Digital Africa has Three focus area:
A Robust Domain Name System (DNS) Infrastructure in Africa: Securing the stability of the DNS, thereby strengthening the Internet infrastructure in Africa and enhancing its security and resiliency.
Capacity Development: Equipping Africa’s workforce with the skills and knowledge necessary to participate in the multistakeholder model of Internet governance.
Meaningful Connectivity: Fostering multilingualism and encouraging local content development in Africa.
By working together, pooling resources, and helping each stakeholder develop specific capacities, the benefits provided through each initiative will be maximized.
The Coalition for Digital Africa has a set of Guiding Principles. This set of principles seeks to define the shared goals for participants in the Coalition for Digital Africa, that, when practiced, will foster clear and effective implementation. The end goal is, ultimately, to ensure that the Internet continues to grow safely in Africa, in a stable manner, to bring communities, cultures, and economies together.

This session will showcase the impact of projects under the Coalition for Digital Africa.

The digital divide in Africa is one of the most pressing development challenges of our time. With over half of Africa's population still offline, the continent faces a unique set of challenges, including the lack of sufficient infrastructure, high connectivity costs, inadequate digital skills, and regulatory bottlenecks. However, these challenges are not insurmountable. By addressing these gaps through carefully crafted policies and effective regulation, African nations can open the door to the transformative potential of the internet for all their citizens.

Universal internet access is not merely a convenience, but a fundamental prerequisite for socio-economic development, political inclusion, and global competitiveness. Yet, across the African continent, over 60% of the population remains offline, grappling with a digital divide that inhibits access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and governance. This digital exclusion undermines Africa’s ability to fully leverage its demographic and technological potential. It is thus crucial for policy and regulatory frameworks to be designed and implemented strategically to bridge this gap.

Objective
The primary objective of this session is to analyze how targeted policies and regulations have advanced (or hindered) universal internet access in African nations, with a focus on Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. The session seeks to identify best practices, draw lessons, and propose policy recommendations that could enhance internet accessibility across the continent.

Expected outcomes
By the end of the session, participants will have gained a comprehensive understanding of the pivotal role that policy and regulation play in achieving universal internet access across Africa. They will be equipped with practical insights from successful case studies in Tanzania, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Uganda, and Kenya, highlighting the impact of well-crafted regulatory frameworks in overcoming barriers to connectivity.

Session Hosts
The Tanzania Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology
The Tanzania Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology is a government institution tasked with overseeing the development and implementation of policies related to information access, communication services, and digital technologies.

Tech & Media Convergency (TMC)
Tech & Media Convergency (TMC) is an award-winning organization driving digital innovation and fostering a knowledge-based society in Tanzania. It champions digital inclusion, gender equality, cybersecurity, and ethical digital practices. It actively participates in global and regional networks such as the ITU’s P2C, Net Rights Coalition, and Africa IGF.

ISOC Tanzania Chapter
The Internet Society Tanzania Chapter (ISOC Tanzania) is a non-profit organization registered under Tanzanian law and serves as the local chapter of the global Internet Society.

As Africa accelerates its path toward a digital single market, data governance has emerged as a foundational enabler of trusted cross-border digital trade, regional innovation, and inclusive development. The African Union Data Policy Framework (AU DPF) offers a visionary blueprint for interoperable, rights-based, and development-focused data ecosystems across the continent. Yet the real test lies in implementation — particularly in moving beyond fragmented national approaches toward collaborative, regionally harmonized governance models.

This session brings together representatives from the East African Community, Southern African Development Community, and Economic Community of West African States, with contributions from the AfCFTA Secretariat, alongside voices from civil society and policy research, to examine how Regional Economic Communities are translating the AU DPF into actionable, region-specific instruments that respond to real-world data flows, innovation needs, and human rights obligations.

The discussion will centre on the urgent need to move beyond siloed data sovereignty and rigid protectionist regimes, toward cooperative, trust-based governance anchored in shared norms, policy interoperability, and inclusive, adaptive regulation that enables both innovation and accountability.

Key points of discussion will include:
• EAC’s development of a Regional Data Governance Strategy adapted from the AU DPF, and the ongoing drafting of a Regional Data Protection and Privacy Bill, aimed at enabling seamless, secure, and trusted cross-border data flows, while supporting regional digital payments and integration.
• ECOWAS’s revision of its Supplementary Act on Personal Data Protection, aligning more closely with the AU DPF, while strengthening regulatory capacity and harmonization across member states.
• SADC’s early leadership in shaping a SADC Regional Data Strategy, domesticating AU DPF and moving the region from restrictive data protection toward frameworks that enable responsible data use and cooperation, alongside work to review and modernize the SADC Electronic Transactions and e-Commerce Model Law to enhance digital trust and trade facilitation.
• The evolving role of REC-level instruments in building digital ecosystems that are increasingly interconnected, requiring legal clarity, policy coherence, and shared frameworks of trust and accountability._x000D_
• How the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol — particularly its annexes on Cross-Border Data Transfers and Digital Payments — can complement REC-led data strategies and offer a pathway for continent-wide alignment between data policy, legal reform, and digital market integration.
This panel will highlight how these regional initiatives, if designed and implemented inclusively, can help reduce fragmentation and establish a pan-African data space that safeguards rights, promotes innovation, and strengthens Africa’s digital economy.

Speakers
-Daniel Murenzi i – Principal ICT Officer, EAC
-Folake Olagunju – Ag Director, Telecommunication and Post, ECOWAS
-Dr George Ah-Thew – Senior Programme Officer, ICT
- Dr Talkmore Chidede – Senior Digital Trade Expert, AfCFTA Secretariat
- Wairagala Wakabi – CIPESA

Moderator - African Union Commission

As Africa becomes increasingly connected, its economic growth, civic engagement, and access to essential services are more reliant than ever on a stable and open, globally-connected and trustworthy Internet. Yet, infrastructure weaknesses, governance gaps, and deliberate disruptions—such as shutdowns or throttling—threaten this critical lifeline. How can journalists, policymakers and the civil society understand, monitor, and respond to these challenges with clarity and impact?

This hands-on workshop is designed to equip participants with the tools and knowledge to engage with Internet resilience data and respond effectively to Internet disruptions. Drawing on the Internet Society’s Pulse platform—including the Internet Resilience Index and country-level reports—the session will provide a guided introduction to how resilience is measured, why it matters, and what it reveals about the readiness of different countries to withstand or recover from outages.

Participants will explore the importance of taking a holistic view that goes beyond technical performance to also consider governance, market diversity, policy environments, and human capacity. In doing so, they will gain insights into the power of data-driven journalism and evidence-based policymaking in advocating for more resilient digital infrastructure.

The session will also include practical strategies for what to do when the Internet stops: how journalists can keep working during shutdowns or outages, how policymakers can respond in real-time, and how both can collaborate to advocate for transparency, accountability, and change.

To put theory into practice, participants will engage in a collaborative group exercise. Teams will be presented with simulated disruption or resilience scenarios and asked to analyze potential weaknesses, assess the governance and technical context, and develop an advocacy or communication campaign to draw attention to the issue or push for systemic improvements. This applied segment helps bridge data with storytelling, and policy with action.

Whether you're investigating digital disruptions, shaping national connectivity strategies, or advocating for open Internet access, this workshop will strengthen your ability to act with evidence, insight, and influence.

Draft Session Schedule (3 hours total):
09:00 – 09:20 | Welcome and IntroductionOverview of session goals and relevance for journalists and policymakers.

09:20 – 09:50 | How Resilient is Africa’s Internet?Presentation and discussion on measuring Internet resilience using the Internet Resilience Index and Pulse country reports. Explore the importance of a holistic approach, including infrastructure, performance, security, and market readiness.

09:50 – 10:20 | When the Internet Stops: Responding to Shutdowns and OutagesExamine case studies of Internet disruptions in Africa. Discuss how to continue reporting or coordinating during shutdowns/outages, and how to use data for advocacy and accountability.

10:20 – 10:30 | Break

10:30 – 12:50 | Group Exercise: Simulating Disruption and Advocating for ResilienceParticipants are divided into small groups. Each group receives a disruption scenario and associated data. Tasks include identifying root causes, analyzing weak points in resilience, and developing a public awareness or policy campaign in response.

12:50 – 13:00 | Wrap-Up and Next StepsShare key takeaways and explore how participants can integrate resilience monitoring into their work.

This session will provide a comprehensive exploration of how Africa's youth population can harness artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to develop innovative solutions addressing the continent's most pressing challenges. With 60% of Africa's population currently under 25 years old (World Bank 2024) and the continent's digital economy projected to grow to $712 billion by 2050, these emerging technologies represent a transformative opportunity for youth empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development._x000D_
The discussion will feature an in-depth examination of four critical areas: First, we will showcase groundbreaking applications of AI and IoT developed by young African innovators across key sectors - from precision agriculture tools increasing crop yields by 40% in Nigeria to AI-powered diagnostic systems improving healthcare access in rural Kenya. Second, we will analyze the persistent skills gap, where despite 72% youth smartphone ownership, only 28% have access to quality AI/IoT training programs (GSMA 2024). Third, we will address the challenge of technological dependence, with 90% of AI tools currently used in Africa being foreign-developed, often lacking cultural and linguistic relevance. Finally, we will highlight success stories like Rwanda's national AI academy training 5,000 youth annually and Mali's open-source IoT firmware reducing implementation costs by 60%._x000D_
Through this session and interactive discussions, participants will: gain practical knowledge about developing contextually appropriate AI and IoT solutions; discover accessible learning resources and funding opportunities for skills development; understand policy frameworks enabling youth innovation; and connect with a pan-African network of peers and mentors. The session will specifically feature a live demonstration of low-cost IoT solutions using sub-$50 components, making the technology accessible to participants across economic backgrounds._x000D_
Designed for young innovators, students, educators, and policymakers alike, this session aims to both inspire and practically equip Africa's next generation of digital leaders. Participants will leave with actionable insights into how they can contribute to building an inclusive, homegrown digital transformation that leverages Africa's unique strengths and addresses its specific needs, while avoiding the pitfalls of technological dependence that have characterized previous industrial revolutions.

The Internet is a wonderful resource that provides opportunities to people around the globe. It transforms our lives and society for the better and belongs to each and every one of us.
The Internet flourished thanks to people who worked tirelessly to help it grow.

But the Internet faces threats on multiple fronts. That is why the Internet Society, together with partners, offers a range of programs to equip and empower the next generation of Internet leaders—to grow and strengthen the Internet for everyone who needs it, benefiting the world’s diverse populations equitably. The future of the Internet is in your hands.

This session will feature a moderator and a diverse panel of 3-4 Internet Society Youth Ambassadors and/or Internet Society Alumni representing regions around the globe who will share their stories, speak about their successes in Internet governance, and share how youth are shaping conversations around the Internet. We will explore topics such as:
1. How they got involved in Internet governance
2. The impact of the Internet Society's programs
3. The initiative they are working on and how the audience can follow their work

We will also touch on how our programs prepare diverse cohorts of fellows to expand their knowledge, develop their careers, and make their voices heard to shape the future of the Internet. They continue their journeys as alumni as part of our Alumni Network where they make quality connections by engaging with a lively community of peers to problem-solve and defend the Internet while staying informed of new collaboration opportunities.

The session will include an audience participation portion to gather questions and comments from the audience. We will hear about their successes and challenges in making an impact in the Internet space and answer questions about how they can get involved in the Internet Society's and fellows/alumni's work. It will inspire them to start or continue their involvement in the Internet space and work to keep the Internet open, globally connected, secure, and trustworthy.

Session Summary:_x000D_
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies (blockchain, IoT, quantum computing, etc.) are reshaping economies, governance models, and social structures globally. In Africa, these technologies offer transformative potential across sectors agriculture, health, education, finance but also raise concerns around bias, surveillance, exclusion, and data sovereignty._x000D_
Africa stands at the cusp of a digital revolution, with artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies poised to significantly enhance economic growth and development. Projections indicate that AI applications could boost Africa's economic growth by up to $2.9 trillion by 2030. _x000D_
_x000D_
Current Market Landscape_x000D_
In 2025, the AI market in Africa is projected to reach $4.51 billion. However, the continent currently represents only 2.5% of the global AI market, highlighting substantial opportunities for expansion and increased participation. _x000D_
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Sectoral Applications_x000D_
AI applications in Africa are predominantly concentrated in:_x000D_
• Agriculture: Enhancing crop yields and managing resources. _x000D_
• Climate Action: Monitoring environmental changes and aiding in disaster response._x000D_
• Energy: Optimizing energy distribution and promoting renewable energy solutions. _x000D_
_x000D_
Challenges to Adoption_x000D_
Despite the potential, several challenges impede widespread AI adoption:_x000D_
• Digital Infrastructure: Africa accounts for less than 1% of the world's data center capacity, necessitating significant investment in digital infrastructure. _x000D_
• Skill Gaps: A 2024 survey revealed that 86% of women across 52 African countries lack basic AI proficiency, and 60% have not received digital skills training. _x000D_
• Data Availability: Limited digitization of government services and processes results in a scarcity of African-centric datasets, hindering AI development. _x000D_
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This session explores how Africa can shape its own digital future through inclusive governance frameworks, innovation-friendly policies, and ethical AI development. Participants will discuss regulatory readiness, public-private partnerships, capacity building, and strategies to avoid digital neocolonialism._x000D_
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Objectives:_x000D_
• Explore the current and potential impact of AI and emerging technologies in Africa._x000D_
• Assess Africa’s readiness in terms of policy, infrastructure, and skills._x000D_
• Address ethical, legal, and societal implications of AI deployment._x000D_
• Discuss models for inclusive governance and local innovation._x000D_
• Foster collaboration among stakeholders to ensure equitable digital transformation._x000D_
_x000D_
Target Audience:_x000D_
• Policymakers and regulators_x000D_
• Tech entrepreneurs and developers_x000D_
• Civil society and digital rights advocates_x000D_
• Academics and researchers_x000D_
• International development agencies_x000D_
_x000D_
Proposed Speakers/Panelists:_x000D_
• Representative, African Union Commission on Digital Transformation_x000D_
• Expert on AI Ethics from an African university_x000D_
• Tech entrepreneur working on AI/ML in Africa_x000D_
• Civil society advocate focused on digital rights_x000D_
• International AI governance expert (from UNECA, UNESCO, ITU)_x000D_
_x000D_
Expected Outcomes:_x000D_
• Recommendations for AI and emerging tech governance priorities in Africa._x000D_
• Networking and coalition-building among key stakeholders._x000D_
• Inputs to regional and continental digital policy frameworks._x000D_

Concept Note for Promoting people-driven policymaking through participatory processes

INTRODUCTION
Citizen leadership, ownership and participation, inclusion and empowerment are defined as some of the critical success factors for the effective realization of Agenda 2063 in line with the AU’s ethos of a people-centred development. This further supports the objective of ensuring effective participation of all stakeholders in the conception, design, implementation and monitoring and evaluation of Agenda 2063 and relevant development initiatives for full ownership and accountability.

The panel will assess the opportunities for leveraging technology for improved citizen engagement in development planning which prioritizes the insights, perspectives, and input of citizens in the planning and implementation of national, regional, and global development agendas. The event will bring together perspectives of actors in the public, private and civic sectors, looking at emerging trends, challenges and prospects for technology driven, inclusive and participatory development approaches.

In this regard, the African Union Development Agency-NEPAD (AUDA-NEPAD) has been seeking ways to enhance meaningful interactions between the AU, its Organs and Member States on the one hand, and African citizens on the other through the development and piloting of digital and non-digital approaches.

More specifically, the panel will provide an opportunity to share the concept for some of the Citizen Engagement Tools with requisite features and capabilities for the provision of comprehensive, interactive and consultative platforms for citizens and citizens groups (private sector, civil societies, government entities, academia, media etc.) to access information, interact and meaningfully engage in governance and socio-economic policymaking processes of the AU.

OBJECTIVES
• Discuss current and emerging opportunities for leveraging technology for citizen engagement in development planning and implementation in AU ecosystem, RECs, and member states
• Demonstrate the value of multi-stakeholder/policy-innovation ecosystem partnerships in developing digital tools for citizen engagement and collaboration
• Identify challenges impacting on the success of technology-driven approaches and proffering policy and practice solutions
• Showcase the AU Citizen Engagement Platform and AU Handbook on Citizen Engagement towards roll-out
• Identify potential institutions, partners, stakeholders, and resources for championing and implementing citizen engagement for development initiatives in Africa

EXPECTED OUTCOMES
• Enhanced appreciation of the value of digital approaches to citizens participation in development.
• Improved understanding of the potential benefits of collaboration between policymakers and innovation actors in Africa; and
• Renewed commitment to the adoption of technology-driven approaches for development planning and implementation.

FORMAT
The panel will be held physically on the margin of the AfricaIGF in May 2025, 29-31. The meeting will be open to representatives of the African Union Commission, AU Organs, RECs African Heads of State and accompany high-ranking government officials, the private sector and development partners_x000D_

Africa teeters on the edge of transformative change as the Singularity, when AI systems surpass human cognitive capabilities, advances from theory to reality.
This session confronts the immediate policy choices that will shape whether emerging technologies become engines of inclusive prosperity or intensify preexisting divides. We’ll explore how African-led data governance frameworks can maintain cultural and economic sovereignty, focusing on local languages, contexts, and ethical safeguards that counter AI bias.

We’ll investigate strategies for securing robust cybersecurity measures without sacrificing openness, ensuring that advancing AI ecosystems do not come at the expense of trust and autonomy. We’ll also touch on the importance of universal digital infrastructure, because cutting-edge machine learning innovations can only thrive if broadband access and digital literacy extend across both urban and rural populations.

Beyond these foundational elements, the debate addresses the continent’s standing in global tech governance. Instead of remaining consumers of imported AI solutions, African innovators can flip the script by contributing distinctive research, forging strategic alliances, and adopting local-first approaches that reflect the continent’s linguistic diversity and cultural richness.

As policymakers, entrepreneurs, and civil society weigh in, we’ll examine whether international cooperation frameworks genuinely serve Africa’s best interests or risk turning local populations into passive data reservoirs. Throughout this discussion, one central question resonates: will Africa passively absorb the Singularity, or will it actively shape the trajectory of AI and position the continent at the vanguard of a new digital era?

The answer depends on forging alliances, embracing homegrown innovation, and prioritizing an ethical and inclusive approach to exponential technology. This debate aims to reveal not only the flashpoints at stake but also the actionable pathways to securing Africa’s agency and prosperity in an age of accelerating artificial intelligence.

To work properly, the Internet must be resilient. but with the new technology coming (IoT, AI, etc.), Internet users are more worried about their data and their private life.

Users need to be confident that by using Internet, they won't put their data (political, financial, personal, etc.) at the risk of being illegitimately used against their interest.
Free data flow is one of the elements of success of an open Internet and especially for the development of applications using Data to provide services and solutions.

So, there is a tradeoff to find between an open and resilient Internet with free data flow and the protection of the Internet users' data from illegitimate collection, processing, storage, transfer, etc. for malicious purpose.

This session, organized in a hybrid mode, will try to enumerate the criteria that have to be satisfied to make the resilient Internet better trusted by all users.

Speakers will address this topic from several angles such as the ethical aspect, legal aspect, technical aspect, etc.
For instance, Mr. Tijani BEN JEMAA, Member of PIR Advisory Council and former Chair of the North African Internet Governance Forum will introduce the topic and explain how to make the resilient Internet better trusted, and Mr. Mohamed Farahat, Lawyer & researcher, and currently Member of the UN Secretary General’s Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence will address the topic from the legal angle, while Ms. Mary Uduma, a Nigerian business executive, a two times President of Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NIRA) and the chairperson of Nigeria Internet Governance Forum will address it from the ethical angle.

A good amount of the session duration will be dedicated to the interaction from the floor, allowing for constructive debate and opinion exchange.

The moderator will take questions to speakers and contributions from the floor, alternating between in-person and online participants. He/she will insure the diversity of contributors (gender, geography, stakeholder group, etc.) .

Africa is at the dawn of a major digital revolution, yet it remains the continent that has contributed less than 5% to global carbon emissions. However, as digitalization expands across the continent, there is a risk that, without sustainable practices, Africa could see a surge in e-waste, high-energy consumption, and environmental degradation. If not carefully managed, digitalization could accelerate pollution instead of serving as a tool for sustainable development.

This session will explore how Africa can build a digitally advanced yet environmentally responsible future. We will discuss the potential risks of unchecked digital growth and highlight eco-friendly digital innovations that offer Africa a more resilient, cost-effective, and sustainable pathway than traditional digitalization. Green digitalization can reduce operational costs, enhance energy efficiency, and position Africa as a leader in sustainable innovation while avoiding the environmental mistakes made by industrialized nations.

Through real-world case studies, we will examine how governments, businesses, and tech communities can adopt green data centers, promote e-waste recycling, develop energy-efficient AI, and implement sustainable internet infrastructure. Additionally, we will discuss the role of public-private partnerships, policy frameworks, and local innovations in ensuring that Africa’s digital transformation aligns with global climate commitments.

Session Objectives
- Understand the risks and opportunities of Africa’s digital growth in relation to environmental sustainability.
- Highlight the benefits of eco-friendly digitalization, showing why it is more cost-effective and advantageous for Africa’s long-term development.
- Showcase sustainable tech innovations that reduce the environmental impact of digital infrastructure.
- Discuss regulatory and policy solutions to ensure digital expansion does not come at the cost of environmental degradation.
- Encourage a multi-stakeholder approach involving governments, businesses, and civil society to balance digital transformation with ecological responsibility.

Expected Outcomes
- A roadmap for sustainable digitalization in Africa, with actionable recommendations for stakeholders.
- Case studies of successful green digital initiatives from across the continent.
- Commitments from governments and tech companies to adopt responsible digital policies.
- Opportunities for collaboration between policymakers, entrepreneurs, and researchers on sustainable digital solutions.
- Increased awareness of how green digitalization can drive economic and environmental benefits for Africa.

By acting now, Africa has the opportunity to leapfrog towards a more sustainable digital economy, avoiding the environmental pitfalls of other regions while unlocking innovation, economic resilience, and long-term prosperity.

Session Title: Cyber Resilience in Africa: Local Solutions to Global Threats
Thematic Track: Cybersecurity, Resilience, and Trust
Session Format: Workshop
Duration:60 minutes

Organizers:
• ICT Commission Ministry of ICT (Tanzania)
• Internet Society Tanzania
• Organization for Digital Africa

Session Description:
As African societies become increasingly digitized, the region faces growing exposure to global cyber threats—from ransomware attacks and critical infrastructure breaches to the misuse of personal data and state-sponsored disinformation. Yet, Africa’s cybersecurity responses have often been shaped by external frameworks and donor-driven strategies that don’t always align with local realities.

This workshop highlights how homegrown solutions, regional collaboration, and community-driven cybersecurity models strengthen Africa’s cyber resilience. The session will showcase practical responses to cyber threats being developed in Africa’s public sector, private companies, and civil society—from localized CERTs and digital hygiene campaigns to capacity-building for small businesses and community-based incident reporting systems._x000D_
Participants will explore what it means to build cybersecurity systems that are inclusive, rights-based, and sustainable in African contexts. Critical questions around capacity gaps, legislative harmonization, digital trust, gender inclusion, and infrastructure protection will be addressed, along with the role of governments in enabling multistakeholder participation and resilience planning.

Rather than importing “one-size-fits-all” solutions, this session will focus on context-aware approaches that respond to Africa’s unique digital landscape—leveraging local knowledge, indigenous languages, and regional best practices to protect communities and secure national development agendas.

Issues to be Addressed:
• Rising cybersecurity threats across African countries and sectors
• Limited capacity of local institutions to respond to attacks
• Inadequate cybersecurity laws, coordination, and enforcement
• Inclusion of underserved communities in cyber awareness and response
• Trust-building as a foundation for digital resilience
Policy Questions:
1. What does cyber resilience look like in the African context—beyond infrastructure?
2. How can African countries scale up local capacity and cooperation for cyber incident response?
3. What role should civil society and local businesses play in national cybersecurity strategies?
4. How can policies promote inclusion in cybersecurity ecosystems, especially of women and youth?
Expected Outcomes:
• Actionable policy ideas for localized and inclusive cybersecurity frameworks
• Documentation of grassroots and regional approaches to cyber resilience
• Recommendations for integrating community actors into national cybersecurity plans
• Strengthened connections between national stakeholders and regional cyber initiatives

Speakers:
1. Thoko Miya ( South Africa),
2. Saba Tiku (Ethiopia),
3. Olakanmi Oluwole (Nigeria),
4. Dr. Nazarius Kirama (Tanzania)

Moderator: Yusuph Kileo

Session Description: Empowering Youth-led SMEs in the Digital Economy: Policies for Inclusion and Growth

Young entrepreneurs are at the forefront of the digital economy, driving innovation and job creation. However, many youth-led small and medium enterprises (SMEs) struggle with barriers such as limited access to capital, restrictive regulatory environments, and gaps in digital literacy. This session will explore how policy reforms, digital platforms, and financial inclusion strategies can create an enabling ecosystem for young business leaders.

The discussion will feature real-world success stories of youth-led enterprises that have leveraged digital tools to scale their businesses. Experts from policy, industry, and entrepreneurship will assess the role of governments, financial institutions, and private sector actors in bridging gaps in digital infrastructure, funding, and skills development.

Key focus areas will include:
Digital and financial inclusion strategies for young entrepreneurs.
Regulatory frameworks that support SME growth in the digital economy.
Best practices from digital platforms empowering youth-led businesses.

By highlighting concrete solutions, this session aims to inform policies that promote sustainable and responsible innovation, ensuring that young entrepreneurs are equipped to drive inclusive economic growth in the digital era.
Attendees will gain valuable insights into policies and strategies that can empower youth-led SMEs in the digital economy. They will learn about successful case studies of young entrepreneurs who have leveraged digital tools and platforms to scale their businesses. The session will provide a multistakeholder perspective, featuring voices from policymakers, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs, offering diverse viewpoints on enabling youth-driven digital innovation.

Participants will also explore practical solutions such as financial inclusion models, digital upskilling programs, and regulatory frameworks that foster SME growth. Additionally, they will receive actionable recommendations on how governments, investors, and technology providers can collaborate to remove barriers for youth-led enterprises. Ultimately, this session will equip attendees with the knowledge and tools needed to advocate for inclusive policies that support sustainable and responsible digital innovation.

The digital economy is rapidly transforming Africa, offering unprecedented opportunities for trade, financial inclusion, and economic growth. With increased internet penetration, mobile banking, and digital innovations, businesses and individuals are gaining access to new markets and financial services like never before. However, this rapid digitalization also brings significant challenges. Issues such as cybersecurity threats, the digital divide, weak regulatory frameworks, and limited digital infrastructure threaten to slow down Africa’s digital progress. If not properly addressed, these barriers could prevent millions from fully participating in the digital economy.

Internet governance plays a crucial role in shaping the policies, regulations, and frameworks that ensure a secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital environment. Effective governance is essential for protecting user rights, promoting data privacy, enhancing cybersecurity, and fostering innovation. But how can African governments, businesses, and stakeholders collaborate to create policies that balance security with innovation? What strategies can be adopted to close the digital divide, ensuring that marginalized communities, including rural populations, women, and small businesses, are not left behind?

This session will bring together experts in finance, technology, policy, and digital innovation to discuss how Africa can harness the power of internet governance to drive economic growth. It will explore key strategies for enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting cross-border e-commerce, and ensuring economic resilience through sound regulatory practices. Additionally, the discussion will address how digital finance and fintech can be leveraged to support financial inclusion, enabling millions of unbanked individuals to access the formal economy.

By attending this session, participants will gain valuable insights into the future of Africa’s digital landscape. Whether you are a policymaker, entrepreneur, investor, or digital rights advocate, this conversation will provide actionable strategies for navigating the complex but promising world of Africa’s digital economy. Join us as we uncover the key governance solutions that will define Africa’s digital future and ensure sustainable economic growth for all.

This roundtable aims to bring together key stakeholders in AI governance to advance the adoption of truly inclusive AI development and governance practices tailored to the unique needs and challenges of Africa. As the continent rapidly embraces AI technologies, it is crucial that these innovations drive inclusive economic and social development, ensuring that AI ecosystems are responsive to local contexts, priorities, and the diverse needs of African communities.

AI has the potential to address pressing challenges in Africa, but without inclusive policies, growing inequalities and a lack of diversity in AI development risk sidelining the voices and perspectives of historically marginalized groups. African countries, with their rich cultural diversity and unique social, economic, and political landscapes, require AI governance frameworks that are grounded in local expertise and realities. A transformative AI policy approach in Africa seeks to mitigate disparities, ensure AI development is not harmful, and guarantee that AI systems work to benefit everyone, particularly those often excluded from the tech industry.

This discussion will explore concrete strategies for policymakers and AI stakeholders in Africa to address systemic inequalities and ensure meaningful participation in decision-making processes around AI development, deployment, and governance. These strategies will be informed by the contributions of over 200 participants from more than 50 countries, including African countries, who contributed to the GPAI Report and Policy Guide Towards Substantive Equality in Artificial Intelligence. This guide focuses on gender equality and diversity, providing a foundation for policies that resonate with the African context.

The session will highlight how multistakeholder collaboration can drive AI governance in Africa that is participatory, just, and globally representative. It will also examine how to ensure that AI policies reflect the continent’s diverse local realities and priorities. By exploring real-world examples, participants will discuss actionable steps for translating inclusive AI governance from principles to practice across Africa. In addition, the conversation will strengthen the capacity for policy impact, empowering African governments, civil society, the private sector, and academic institutions to collaborate effectively.

Transformative AI policy on the continent aligns with key global frameworks such as the OECD AI principles, the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI, the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Global Digital Compact. These frameworks call for the alignment of AI systems with human rights and promote gender equality and diversity in AI ecosystems. By leveraging these global principles, Africa can ensure that its AI systems are designed in ways that enhance their quality, usability, and effectiveness, contributing to a more equitable, sustainable, and prosperous future for all African countries.

In today’s rapidly evolving digital age, meaningful inclusion remains a cornerstone of sustainable development. Yet, across many African countries, women, youth, and marginalized communities continue to face significant barriers to fully participating in and benefiting from digital opportunities. As digital policies, technologies, and governance frameworks advance, ensuring that no one is left behind becomes both a moral imperative and a strategic necessity.

This interactive session, titled “Strengthening Digital Inclusion: Empowering Women, Youth, and Marginalized Communities for Enhanced Digital Cooperation,” aims to bring together diverse stakeholders from across the African digital ecosystem to reflect on what works, what doesn’t, and what’s next. Hosted by the Tanzania Hubs Network (THN) in collaboration with GIZ, and held on the sidelines of the Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) 2025, this workshop is designed to foster multi-stakeholder learning, align efforts with international frameworks, and drive collective action.

The session aligns with the AfIGF 2025 sub-theme of Enhancing Digital Cooperation, and connects deeply with global agendas such as the Global Digital Compact (GDC), WSIS+20, the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on ICTs, and SDGs 2030—especially SDG 5: Gender Equality. Participants will explore how to localize and implement these global frameworks in practical, context-driven ways that reflect Africa’s unique challenges and opportunities.

This two-hour session will begin with lightning talks—three short, impactful presentations showcasing real-world initiatives that have successfully empowered women, youth, and/or marginalized groups in Tanzania’s digital space. These will serve to spark inspiration and lay the foundation for deeper engagement.

The core of the session will take the form of a World Café format, allowing small groups to explore key questions around:
Challenges to digital inclusion and trust
Promising models and emerging best practices
Opportunities for cross-sector alignment and collaboration
Concrete actions to advance SDG 5 and other global goals through inclusive digital ecosystems

Each table will be facilitated by an experienced moderator and guided by thematic prompts. Outcomes will be shared in a plenary wrap-up session, where tables will present key takeaways and suggestions for policy, practice, and partnership.

Ultimately, this session is about more than dialogue—it’s about building community, strengthening local-global linkages, and identifying practical strategies for action. By convening a curated group of up to 30 implementation-level actors from innovation hubs, government agencies, academia, private sector, CSOs, and international development organizations this workshop aims to co-create a roadmap toward a more inclusive, equitable, and collaborative digital future for Africa.