Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025

This session addresses the sub themes of Universal Access and Meaningful Connectivity and AI and Emerging Technologies, emphasizing the pivotal role of internet access in dismantling the stigma around mental illness and building resilient, supportive communities. In this session, we will address the stigma surrounding mental health and educate participants on its multifaceted nature—falling into medical, spiritual, and psychological domains. In doing so, we will:
1) showcase the intersection of technology and cultural context in promoting mental health awareness.
2) discuss the transformative impact of equitable internet access on mental health support and resources, especially in underserved areas (justice-involved individuals); and
3) highlight the critical role of founders and leaders in driving policy changes and creating safe spaces that prioritize mental health in African, and diasporic communities.

Driving our discussion will be a moderated panel featuring dynamic stakeholders who expertise spans mental health, academia, policy, technology, and community organizing and engagement. Attendees can expect an interactive conversation about understanding mental illness and conscientiously using technology and the internet access as both foundational and an enabler of dismantling the stigmatization of mental health to build resilient communities. We anticipate attendees will leave our session energized with:
1) an increased awareness of the complex nature of mental health and its interconnected domains,
2) a roadmap for leveraging internet access to support African communities in Africa and beyond, and
3) policy recommendations for integrating mental health and suicide into digital governance.
4) Building Resilient, Inclusive Communities: Shared insights from community-driven projects blending cultural understanding with mental health initiatives all to Action

This Panel discussion positions as a visionary leader in addressing global mental health challenges through technology and AI. By emphasizing equity, cultural sensitivity, and inclusion, the company invites governments, NGOs, medical professionals, AI developers, and CSR-driven corporations to join in creating meaningful change. Together, we can tackle the global mental health crisis and ensure no one is left behind.