From November 14 to 19, 2024, the 12th edition of the African School on Internet Governance (AfriSIG24) was held in Addis Ababa. Organized by the Association for Progressive Communications (APC), the African Union Commission (AUC) and Research ICT Africa, the event brought together key players in digital governance in Africa.

AfroLeadership, through its Director of Civic Technologies, was privileged to represent civil society organizations at the event, as an organization committed to open governance and the promotion of digital rights in Africa. The meeting offered a unique platform to explore the challenges and opportunities of Internet governance on the African continent.

During this enriching week, participants exchanged views on crucial themes such as digitization and digital inclusion, data governance and cybersecurity, as well as emerging issues such as artificial intelligence and climate change in the digital age. Discussions highlighted best practices and innovative policies aimed at creating a secure digital environment accessible to all.

A key moment of our participation was the session devoted to the harmonization of data regulations on a continental scale, illustrated by a multi-stakeholder consultation concerning the implementation of the AfCFTA digital protocol, in line with the African Union’s data policy framework. This exercise offered us, as a stakeholder, the opportunity to contribute to the implementation of this platform, which aims to create a virtual single market to boost intra-African trade.

Our participation in AfriSIG24 was a transformative experience, reinforcing our commitment to contributing to Internet governance in Africa. These sessions not only broadened our professional network, but also enriched our understanding of the dynamics of digital governance on the continent. We leave with a renewed determination to promote an inclusive, secure and sustainable Internet for all.