From November 12 to 15, 2024, AfroLeadership took part in the fifth World Data Forum organized by the UN in Medellín, Colombia. The event aimed to deepen understanding of extended ecosystems in order to harness data as an engine for transformation and accelerated progress in sustainable development on a global scale. AfroLeadership was the only Central African organization invited to this international event, which attracted over 3,000 high-level data experts from over 120 countries.

During the meeting, several themes were discussed in depth. The first theme concerned innovation in inclusive data, focusing on the integration of different data sources to increase the involvement of voices and stakeholders in the production of quality data, through the use of algorithms, interoperability tools and geospatial systems. Discussions on using data to maximize decision-making focused on data literacy strategies, aimed at strengthening decision-makers’ ability to use data effectively.

The debate on trust-building, data protection and data ethics focused on the application of ethical principles in the data ecosystem, addressing issues such as privacy protection, cybersecurity, secure access to micro-data and the development of robust legal frameworks to ensure trust in the use of these resources. Finally, the focus on effective partnerships for better and fairer data highlighted areas for consideration to pool efforts within national and regional data ecosystems, building on the Cape Town Global Action Plan.

The two-day meeting also offered stakeholders the opportunity to share their experiences in promoting open data around the world.