Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF), convened annually by the UN Secretary-General, is a global multistakeholder platform that facilitates discussions on Internet and digital public policy issues. This year, Norway will host the United Nations 20th Internet Governance Forum (IGF 2025) under the overarching theme “Building Digital Governance Together”.

The African IGF (AfIGF) is a regional IGF initiative dedicated to fostering exchanges within the region on relevant digital policy topics. In recent years, the IGF has sought to strengthen the participation of parliamentarians in discussions on some of the most pressing issues related to the use, evolution and governance of the Internet and related digital technologies at the global and regional Forums.

Building on Parliamentary Track experiences at the African IGF since 2022 and under the overarching theme “Parliamentarians Empowering Africa’s Digital Future”, dedicated sessions for parliamentarians from across the African region will be held again at the African IGF 2025 in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.

The activities will facilitate dialogue and exchanges on key digital policy issues among Members of Parliaments (MPs), and between MPs and other stakeholders from within and beyond the African continent. Focus will be given to the Parliamentarians of information and communication technology (ICT) related committees at the national or regional parliaments, who work on digital affairs and Internet policy issues.

Objectives:
1. Familiarize MPs with the IGF space and the broader international ecosystem for Internet governance and digital policy. Encourage them to actively contribute to relevant regional and international processes.
Prepare MPs for participation in the IGF 2025 meeting and the dedicated Parliamentary Track, as well as future IGF meetings and activities.
2. Update MPs on a set of Internet governance and digital policy issues relevant to African countries. Facilitate dialogue on these issues with other parliamentarians, as well as with relevant international and regional organisations from different stakeholder groups (intergovernmental organisations, the technical community, private sector, civil society).
3. Discuss the relevance of legislative work in shaping a digital future in the region. Highlight issues that need to be considered when legislation for the digital space is developedFacilitate cooperation and exchanges of good practices with MPs from national and regional parliaments, as well as parliaments from other regions, which have advanced legislative work on digital policy issues.
4. Expose the MPs to relevant internet governance processes (e.g., WSIS+20 review process, the Global Digital Compact) and other UN flagship initiatives.
Collaborators
The IGF Secretariat is collaborating on the regional Parliamentary Track with several partners, including the the African Union, the GIZ, UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), the African School on Internet Governance (AfriSIG), and the African Parliamentary Network on Internet Governance (APNIG).

[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

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

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_
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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_

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 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.

In an increasingly digital world, reliable and affordable internet access has become a critical enabler for economic development, education, healthcare, and civic participation. However, significant disparities remain, particularly for rural communities in developing African countries. These communities often face deep-rooted barriers to digital inclusion, such as geographic isolation, insufficient infrastructure, socio-economic inequality, and restrictive gender norms. As a result, millions of people, particularly women, youth, and other marginalized groups, are excluded from opportunities within the digital economy and society at large.

This session, convened by WOUGNET and its partners, will explore the transformative role of rural broadband connectivity in bridging the digital divide. It will highlight how inclusive, community-driven connectivity models are closing access gaps and fostering meaningful digital inclusion in rural and underserved regions. Drawing on practical experiences and case studies from Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa, the discussion will showcase innovative broadband initiatives, such as community network models and solar-powered internet hubs, that have successfully enhanced connectivity for marginalized populations.

Participants will also engage in a collaborative discussion on the structural and systemic challenges rural communities face in accessing digital technologies. These include inadequate policy and regulatory frameworks, high costs of connectivity, limited access to digital literacy programs, and persistent gender inequalities that limit women’s participation in the digital space. The session will also explore how locally-led, gender-sensitive connectivity initiatives can address these barriers by promoting affordability, sustainability, and community ownership.

By convening stakeholders from various sectors, this session aims to foster dialogue around scalable broadband models and policy recommendations that can be replicated across the continent. The discussion will focus on actionable strategies to empower women and other marginalized groups through inclusive internet access, thereby contributing to sustainable development and a more equitable digital future.

Objectives:
1. To explore the importance of rural broadband connectivity in fostering an inclusive digital economy and society.
2. To identify and discuss key barriers preventing gender-equitable access to digital technologies for marginalized populations in rural areas.
3. To present effective, replicable rural broadband connectivity models and community network approaches from Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa.
4. To propose actionable strategies and policy recommendations that ensure all individuals, especially women, youth, and marginalized groups, can meaningfully participate in the digital world.

In 2022, the African Union Commission (AUC) adopted the African Union Data Policy Framework (AU DPF) as a continental guide to help Member States establish coherent, inclusive, and rights-based data governance systems. The AU DPF addresses key challenges such as data protection, privacy, ethical data use, cross-border data flows, and data sovereignty, while promoting digital innovation and economic integration across the continent. It provides a common vision and principles for Member States to develop and harmonise national and regional data governance frameworks aligned with Africa’s development priorities, including Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
To support implementation and domestication of the AU DPF, the “Data Governance in Africa Initiative” has been assisting African countries in developing data policies that are context-specific but aligned with the AU DPF.
This session at the Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) will focus on the experiences, lessons and best practices related to three interrelated areas:
• Aligning National Data Policies with the AU Data Policy Framework
• Utilising Multistakeholder, participatory and inclusive Approaches in Data Policy Development.
• Fostering effective Interorganisational Collaboration for the effective development of Data Policies.
The panel will bring together representatives from governments, data protection authorities, civil society, the private sector and project implementation partners to share insights on the policy development process, practical experiences in aligning with the AU DPF, and the challenges encountered. It will examine how national governments are adapting AU DPF principles to their local contexts.
A key focus will be the importance of multistakeholder approaches in shaping inclusive, transparent, and effective data policy development. Engaging a broad spectrum of actors—ICT ministries, regulators, private sector, academia, civil society, and affected communities—ensures that data policies are not only technically sound but also socially relevant and widely accepted.
The session will also explore how interorganisational cooperation is essential to harmonisation. Examples will be drawn from countries that have initiated collaborative structures or policy dialogues to align their frameworks with the AU DPF.
Participants will gain:
• Practical insights on aligning national data policies with the AU DPF
• Lessons on inclusive policy development through multistakeholder processes
• Strategies for effective coordination across institutions
This session will contribute to building a unified and resilient data governance landscape in Africa—one that balances innovation, economic growth, and the protection of rights in the digital age.

This panel discussion explores how Africa can harness its existing data infrastructure alongside the strategic development of new continental digital platforms to assert digital sovereignty amidst rising global digital trade barriers and tariffs. This provides a foundation to discuss the need to promote sovereignty across key digital ecosystems and platforms, such as the mobile app ecosystem, payment solutions, e-hauling solutions, corporate solutions, server infrastructure, social media platforms, and data sharing platforms.

The discussion directly supports the objectives of the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) of ensuring that the ICT infrastructure being developed is complemented by sovereign digital capabilities.
3. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPIs) as Sovereignty Foundations (10 minutes)
- Which critical African and Member State digital public infrastructure needs sovereign protection?
- How can the existing DPIs be actively leveraged now to strengthen Africa's negotiating stance against unfavourable digital trade barriers?
- Focus: Practical use cases and identify the data gaps.
4. Building Continental Digital Platforms (15 minutes)
- Beyond data repositories, what are the priority new continental platforms (e.g., African App Stores, secure e-logistics/e-hauling platforms)? What are the essential technical, governance (balancing AU coordination & national ownership), and sustainable funding models required for their success?
- Focus: Feasibility, interoperability standards, public-private partnership models.
5. Frameworks for Data Sovereignty & Resilience (15 minutes)
- What specific policy and technical mechanisms can ensure collective African data governance while respecting national controls? How can Africa develop defensive strategies against extraterritorial data laws and digital protectionism?
- How do integrated data systems such as the African Infrastructure Database enhance Africa's voice in global digital governance forums?
- Focus: Data localization vs. flow, cybersecurity collaboration, regulatory harmonization approaches.
Expected Outcomes
1. Outlining the need for a vibrant and well-coordinated digital continental platform ecosystem.
2. Key principles for interoperability and data exchange.
3. Balancing continental needs and national sovereignty.

The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the internet by developing open standards and protocols that underpin global connectivity. However, African participation in IETF activities remains significantly low, as highlighted by the fact that as of August 2024, only 22 RFCs (Request for Comments) have authors from Africa, representing just 0.24% of all RFCs. This underrepresentation limits the continent's influence on key technical decisions that impact its digital future and weakens Africa’s role in shaping global internet standards.

This session aims to explore the barriers to African engagement in the IETF and propose strategies to increase participation. It will address the following key points:
The role of the IETF in internet governance and its impact on Africa’s digital transformation.
The importance of African representation in IETF working groups such as DNSOP, v6ops, and Green.
The correlation between IETF meeting locations and regional contributions to RFCs.
The absence of an IETF meeting in Africa and the potential benefits of hosting one on the continent.
Strategies to increase African contributions to IETF standards, including awareness campaigns, capacity-building programs, and funding opportunities for participation.

The broader impact of African participation in IETF on Enhancing Digital Cooperation and Universal Access to Meaningful Connectivity.
A stronger African presence in IETF deliberations will not only enable the continent to have a say in shaping protocols that directly affect its internet ecosystem but also reinforce regional digital sovereignty. Enhancing digital cooperation between Africa and global internet governance institutions such as IETF, ICANN, ISOC, and the ITU is crucial for sustainable digital development. Moreover, as Africa continues to develop its Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and improve access, ensuring that the continent is actively involved in the technical standardization process will help build an inclusive, secure, and resilient internet ecosystem.

As an African policymaker and a recent participant in the IETF Policy Maker Programme, I had the opportunity to attend IETF 122 in Bangkok (March 2025). During the Open Mic session, I questioned the IETF leadership about the lack of meetings in Africa. This session will build on that discussion and seek to mobilize African internet governance stakeholders to advocate for increased African involvement in the IETF, ensuring that Africa plays an integral role in the future of the global internet.

Linkedin post: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/internet-engineering-task-force-ietf-meeting-africa-i-karim-hqdue/
DNSOP WG: https://datatracker.ietf.org/wg/dnsop/about/
GREEN WG: https://datatracker.ietf.org/wg/green/about/
V6OPS WG: https://datatracker.ietf.org/wg/v6ops/about/
Stats on RFCs per continent: https://www.arkko.com/tools/rfcstats/d-contdistr.html

Security is no longer a specialized issue as Africa speeds up its digital transformation; rather, it is a fundamental component of digital trust, resilience, and sovereignty. The goal of this session is to examine the ever-changing opportunities and difficulties associated with safeguarding Africa's digital environment, from national infrastructures to connectivity at the local level.

Through a multi-stakeholder lens, the panel will bring together views from academia, civic society, the private tech sector, and the state sector. They will jointly investigate how Africa can develop a robust cybersecurity posture that fosters innovation, protects user confidence, and strengthens international collaboration.
The discussion will bother on:
1. Africa's evolving threat landscape includes ransomware, critical infrastructure attacks, and cyber-enabled misinformation.
2. Capacity building and local talent development in cybersecurity.
3. The role of policy, regulation, and cross-border collaboration in driving continental cyber resilience.
4. Trust-building strategies between governments, technology companies, and citizens.
The session will be interactive, including audience engagement, and will conclude with actionable insights and recommendations that can be adapted across countries and sectors.
Session Objectives:
1. To explore the key cybersecurity threats and trends impacting African digital development.
2. To examine multi-stakeholder roles in building cyber resilience and trust.
3. To identify gaps in capacity, policy, and collaboration — and suggest practical solutions.
4. To foster partnerships that will drive Africa’s digital safety forward.
Target Audience:
• Policy makers and regulators
• Network and cybersecurity professionals
• Civil society and digital rights advocates
• Telcos, ISPs, and infrastructure providers
• Researchers and academia
• Youth and emerging tech leaders

Moderator & Panelist Structure:
Moderator:
Experienced facilitator with cybersecurity governance and multistakeholder dialogue expertise.
Panelists:
Government Representative – a cybersecurity agency in Nigeria
Private Sector Leader – Cybersecurity Firm
Civil Society Advocate – digital rights and data protection representative
Academic/Special interest Leader – researcher and innovator in cyber resilience
Mode: Hybrid:
Online audience : We will utilize zoom for speakers and attendees while slido will be used for questions and polls.
Physical audience : Will be able to contribute directly from the venue.

To explore how the Global Digital Compact (GDC) can catalyze Africa’s digital transformation by aligning with regional frameworks like the African Digital Compact (ADC), fostering South-South/triangular cooperation, and addressing challenges such as digital divides, data governance, and AI regulation.
1. Policy Alignment: Strategies to harmonize GDC and ADC goals, particularly on digital divides and data governance.
2. Cooperation Roadmap: Prioritized actions for South-South/triangular partnerships in AI, cybersecurity, and digital literacy.
3. Advocacy Toolkit: Guidelines for African stakeholders to leverage the GDC in regional and global negotiations.
Aligning Global and Regional Agendas.

GDC Priorities: Closing digital divides, advancing equitable data governance, and governing AI for humanity.
ADC Synergies: Bridging Africa’s digital divides, enhancing cybersecurity, and fostering a Digital Single Market.
Case Study: The EU-Smart Africa partnership (e.g., deploying secure networks, e-governance, and AI initiatives) demonstrates how global frameworks can support regional goals.

South-South and Triangular Cooperation.
Triangular Models: Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire, and Germany collaborate on drone-based biodiversity solutions and cross-border regulatory harmonization.
Regional Knowledge Sharing: Platforms like UNOSSC’s South-South Galaxy facilitate exchanges on mobile money, agricultural tech, and digital governance.
Cross-Regional Learning: Lessons from Latin America’s eLAC2026 and ASEAN’s Digital Integration Framework can inform Africa’s Digital Single Market.

Addressing Critical Challenges
Digital Inclusion: Scaling affordable connectivity, digital literacy, and inclusive e-governance
Data Governance: Harmonizing national frameworks and advancing interoperable standards
AI and Emerging Tech: Establishing ethical guidelines and capacity-building partnerships.
Relevance to the Global Digital Compact:
The session directly addresses the GDC’s call for inclusive multistakeholder governance and equitable data governance

As Africa advances the development of its Digital Single Market and scales up Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) including digital identity systems, interoperable cross-border payment platforms, and regional data exchange frameworks – the governance of data has emerged as a defining pillar of the continent’s digital transformation.
Data now underpins public service delivery, economic growth, artificial intelligence, innovation, digital trade, and regional integration. Yet, in the absence of coherent, trusted, and harmonized data governance frameworks, Africa’s ability to fully realize its digital potential remains constrained. Fragmentation across national laws, regulatory regimes, and institutional capacities—further complicated by concerns over sovereignty and uneven political will—continues to hinder the establishment of secure, interoperable cross-border data flows.
This high-level panel will convene senior leaders and experts from governments, regional bodies, international organizations, civil society, and academia to examine what effective, inclusive, and future-oriented data governance should look like for Africa. The session comes at a pivotal moment, as ongoing developments—including the domestication of the AU Data Policy Framework, implementation of the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol, and regional initiatives in ECOWAS, SADC, and EAC—present unprecedented opportunities for regulatory coherence and multilateral cooperation.

Panelists will explore how African institutions can:
• Design governance systems that protect digital rights and ensure equitable access to data.
• Redefine data sovereignty to enable secure and interoperable cross-border data flows,
• Foster innovation, economic resilience, and sustainable digital development, and
• Address the growing influence of emerging technologies such as AI, on the data governance landscape and the African data ecosystems.
Drawing on national, regional and continental experiences, the panel will engage with the following key questions:
• What does “good data governance” look like in the African context?
• How can data governance frameworks embed inclusion and representation, particularly for marginalized groups and communities?
• In what ways can institutions safeguard data sovereignty while enabling cross-border data flows?
• What forms of continental leadership and coordination are needed to harmonize frameworks across diverse legal, political, and economic landscapes?

Session Description:
The session aligns with the broader theme of the AfIGF, focusing on enhancing internet governance mechanisms in Africa. It will explore the critical role of national and regional IGFs in shaping inclusive, sustainable, and people-centered digital policies across the continent.
National and Regional IGFs are essential platforms for multi-stakeholder dialogue on IG issues. In Africa, these forums play a pivotal role in addressing local and regional challenges, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that African voices are heard in global internet governance discussions. However, they face significant challenges, including limited resources, low stakeholder engagement, and varying levels of institutional support. At the same time, there are immense opportunities to leverage these platforms for advancing digital transformation, promoting digital rights, and addressing Africa-specific issues such as connectivity gaps, cybersecurity, and data governance.

Session Objectives:
1. Assess the Current State: Evaluate the effectiveness of national and regional IGFs in Africa in addressing internet governance challenges.
2. Identify Challenges: Discuss the key challenges faced by these forums, including funding, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement.
3. Explore Opportunities: Highlight opportunities for strengthening national and regional IGFs, such as partnerships, innovation, and alignment with global IGF initiatives.
4. Develop Recommendations: Propose actionable strategies to enhance the impact and sustainability of national and regional IGFs in Africa.
Key Discussion Questions:
1. What are the key achievements of national and regional IGFs in Africa so far?
2. What are the main challenges hindering their effectiveness, and how can these be addressed?
3. How can national and regional IGFs better engage underrepresented stakeholders, including women, youth, and rural communities?
4. What role can regional collaborations and partnerships play in strengthening these forums?
5. How can national and regional IGFs contribute to achieving the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy and Agenda?

Panelists:
Mr. Ahmed Farag – North Africa
Ms. Lilian Nalwoga – Eastern Africa
Ms. Mary Uduma – West Africa_
Mr. Jacob Munodawafa – Southern Africa
Mr. Michel Tchonang Linze – Central Africa

Onsite Moderator:
Ms. Carol Roach, MAG Chair - UN IGF

Online Moderator:
Ms. Thoko Miya, South Africa ISOC Chapter