West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025: Full Schedule

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8:00am WAT

Beyond Awareness: Embedding Digital Security Practices in Marginalized Communities

Friday May 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT

While digital transformation continues to reshape societies, marginalized communities in Africa often remain excluded from the benefits of secure digital practices. These communities face unique challenges, such as limited access to resources, low levels of digital literacy, and exposure to cyber threats. Despite efforts to raise awareness, a critical gap persists in embedding sustainable digital security practices tailored to the realities of these communities.
This interactive workshop will move beyond theoretical awareness to practical implementation. Participants will explore innovative strategies, grassroots-led initiatives, and actionable tools designed to integrate digital security into the daily lives of underserved populations. Through hands-on demonstrations and real-world case studies, this session will provide a platform to share experiences, foster collaboration, and equip attendees with a framework to address digital security challenges at the local level.

Key Objectives:
Identify Barriers: Explore the unique challenges marginalized communities face in adopting secure digital practices.
Share Innovations: Present creative, low-cost solutions and tools that align with the specific needs of these communities.
Empower Grassroots Organizations: Highlight the pivotal role of grassroots organizations in promoting localized digital safety initiatives.
Provide Practical Frameworks: Equip participants with tools and frameworks to build localized, sustainable digital security programs.

Expected Outcomes:
Participants will leave with:
A deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in embedding digital security practices in marginalized communities.
Exposure to innovative tools and methods tailored to underserved populations.
A framework for implementing sustainable digital security programs.
Enhanced collaboration between grassroots organizations, policymakers, and digital rights advocates to drive community-centric digital safety initiatives.

Target Audience:
Grassroots organizations working with underserved communities.
Digital rights advocates.
Policymakers focused on inclusivity and digital transformation.
Educators and trainers in the digital literacy space.
Technologists interested in accessible and localized digital security solutions.

Moderators

Godsway Kubi

Speakers

Angela Onyegbuna

Persis Yentumi

Friday May 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

Area Workshop
NEW FIELD 1 Workshop

8:00am WAT

Prévenir et contourner les coupures de l'internet en Afrique.

Friday May 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT

Workshop Room 2

L'Afrique risque d'être encore confronté à des coupures de l'internet. Au Sénégal, nous avons depuis 2016 fait un plaidoyer pour un renforcement juridique de la protection des utilisateurs et de la neutralité de l'internet. La session que nous proposons vise à sensibiliser les participants sur les risques de coupures et comment travailler à l'éviter. Le fait que les gouvernements ont souvent comme argument la diffusion des discours de haine sur internet pour faire des restrictions n'est plus à démontrer.

La session aura comme objectif de mettre en lumière l'importance d'un plaidoyer préventif en tenant en compte l'exemple que nous avons vécu au Sénégal dans le cadre des manifestations politiques (2021 -- 2024) afin d'outiller les citoyens des peuples africains a traverser des périodes comme telles le cas échéant.

Ce partage d'expérience sera suivi du partage de témoignage sur comment la population a vécu les coupures, les impacts au niveau économique et social afin de décourager les autorités dans leurs intention de couper internet très facilement.

L'autre aspect de la session mettra aussi en lumière le travail qui doit être fait pour enlever aux autorités leurs argument de diffusion des discours de haine pour couper, en faisant la promotion d'un usage responsable de l'internet.

En définitive nous aurons aussi comme objectif d'amener les plateformes à prendre leurs responsabilité dans la prolifération du discours de haine et trouver la documentation (textes juridiques) pour chaque pays concerné au niveau locale pour en finir avec les coupures de l'internet et soutenir le plaidoyer.
Dans le cadre du plaidoyer il faut comprendre que les responsables de plateformes ne prennent pas souvent en compte les besoins en Afrique. L'Afrique est le parent pauvre en ce qui concerne la responsabilité des plateforme. Nous aurons, dans le cadre de ce panel comme obligation de travailler en synergie pour engager nos différentes autorités de régulation du numérique à unir leurs forces sous la bannière de la charte africaine des peuples et de la convention de Malabo à s'unir pour engager les responsables de plateforme à mieux considérer l'Afrique.

Speakers

Emmanuel Maurice Diokh

Friday May 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT
Workshop Room 2 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Cooperation and Global Internet Governance

Area Workshop
NEW FIELD 1 Session

8:00am WAT

Strengthening Digital Rights Protection: STANDS as a Best Practice Model

Friday May 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT

Workshop Room 1

This session will highlight the STANDS (Stemming the Tides of Abuse in Nigeria’s Digital Space) initiative, a Paradigm Initiative project, as a model for strengthening digital rights protection in West Africa. STANDS combines policy advocacy, legislative engagement, government capacity building, civil society support, and strategic litigation to address digital rights violations. The discussion will explore the initiative’s impact, successes, challenges, and how similar frameworks can be adapted across the region.
Session Format
Presentation: Overview of the STANDS initiative, its key strategies, and measurable impact.
Case Studies: Examples of policy wins, strategic litigation, and capacity-building efforts.
Panel Discussion: Experts will discuss lessons learned, sustainability, and expansion of digital rights protections.

Q&A and Recommendations: Participants will explore ways to implement similar models in their contexts.

Key Discussions
STANDS’ Impact on Digital Rights Protection

How STANDS has influenced policy, legislation, and digital security in Nigeria.

Successes in legal and advocacy efforts, including engagement with key stakeholders.

Case Studies of Successful Interventions

Strategic litigation cases and policy reforms.

Capacity-building efforts for government, civil society, and media.

Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration

Effective engagement between government, civil society, legal experts, and international organizations.

Challenges and opportunities in fostering partnerships.

Sustainability and Future Expansion

Ensuring long-term impact and scaling STANDS beyond Nigeria.

Lessons for strengthening regional digital rights protection.

Policy Recommendations

Legislative and policy measures to enhance digital security and rights.

Strategies to improve digital literacy and advocacy efforts.

Why Attend?
Attendees will gain insights into how a holistic approach can drive digital rights protection, learn from real-world case studies, and explore strategies for regional adoption. This session offers an opportunity for networking and knowledge sharing on best practices in digital rights advocacy.
Who Should Attend?
Policymakers and government officials
Civil society organizations and digital rights advocates

Legal professionals and human rights defenders

Researchers and academics focused on digital governance

Representatives from international organizations

Media practitioners covering digital rights and policy

Technology companies engaged in policy and advocacy

This session provides a platform to exchange ideas, strengthen collaborations, and explore pathways for advancing digital rights in West Africa.

Moderators

Khadijah El-Usman

Paradigm Initiative, Senior Programs Officer, Anglophone West Africa

Khadijah El-Usman is the regional lead for Anglophone West-Africa at Paradigm Initiative with a focus to advance Internet freedom, and monitor the legal and policy framework around the region, to ensure that citizens’ rights are protected online.Khadijah is a legal practitioner... Read More →

Speakers

Gbenga Sesan

Adeboro Odunlami

Friday May 23, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT
Workshop Room 1 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Cooperation and Global Internet Governance

Area Workshop
NEW FIELD 1 Workshop

9:00am WAT

Building a Secure and Trusted Digital Africa: Multi-Stakeholder Perspectives

Friday May 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT

Main Hall

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.

Speakers

Tinuade Oguntuyi

Head Network and Solutions, ICSL

Karen Ajibade

Confidence Osein

SMIEEE

Friday May 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

NEW FIELD 1 Session

9:00am WAT

Model of a voice translation system for African languages in case of a pandemic for hospitals

Friday May 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT

Workshop Room 2

A universal voice translation system for hospitals and health centres is a necessity for the population, doctors and health staff.
Firstly, for the case study, we will draw up a list of official languages, African languages and Senegalese mother tongues or national languages.
Secondly, we will propose a model applicable to given African languages.
We are going to build on the research of our previous model entitled: "Model for the voice translation of African languages of medicine leaflets for the fight against pandemic and epidemic diseases"to put in place, in the event of new pandemics or epidemics, a model entitled: "Universal voice translation model for hospitals and health centres in the event of pandemics and epidemics" which will be composed of official languages of the United Nations, African languages and Senegalese mother tongues or national languages.
The impact of voice translation systems on pandemics and epidemics worldwide :
In Africa, mother tongues and national languages are not represented in voice translation software or in the global linguistic AI market.
Search results:
Voice translation of the following African languages:
Swahili, Amharic, Bambara, Igbo, Lingala, Yaruba, Zulu, Hausa, Omoro
Swahili language voice translation
Swahili is the most widely spoken language in Africa. The doctor will send the following audio message to the patient: "Hello to avoid Covid 19, keep your distance, respect the barrier gestures, thank you for your attention".

The universal voice translation system for hospitals and health centres is a necessity for doctors, health staff and patients. In the event of pandemics and epidemics such as Covid 19, the universal voice translation system can be used in rural areas to combat pandemic and epidemic diseases.

Speakers

Mamadou Lamine Diallo

Friday May 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT
Workshop Room 2 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

NEW FIELD 1 Workshop

9:00am WAT

Unplugged Progress: The Impact of Internet Shutdowns on African Youth and Enterprises

Friday May 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT

Workshop Room 1

This session will present findings from a comprehensive research study examining the prevalence and impact of internet shutdowns across various African countries. The focus will be on how these shutdowns affect young entrepreneurs and the social rights of youth, disrupting businesses, education, and civic engagement. The discussion will include case studies from nations such as Nigeria, Uganda, and Sudan, highlighting personal narratives and economic data. The session aims to provide policymakers with evidence-based insights to inform strategies that balance security concerns with the necessity of uninterrupted internet access.
Target 4.3 (Quality Education – Ensure equal access to affordable and quality education, including technical and vocational training)
- Internet shutdowns disrupt access to online learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and educational resources. Many young people in Africa rely on digital tools for vocational training, university education, and skills development. Shutdowns create learning gaps, particularly for students in remote areas who depend on online education.

2. Target 8.2 (Economic Growth – Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading, and innovation)
- Youth entrepreneurs, digital businesses, and freelancers rely on the internet for financial transactions, e-commerce, marketing, and business operations. Shutdowns interrupt these activities, leading to revenue losses, unemployment, and decreased investor confidence in Africa’s digital economy. This stifles innovation and slows economic diversification.

3. Target 9.1 (Infrastructure – Develop sustainable and resilient infrastructure to support economic development and human well-being)
- The internet is a critical part of modern infrastructure, supporting industries like fintech, logistics, healthcare, and smart cities. Frequent shutdowns weaken digital infrastructure, making it unreliable for businesses and public services. They also discourage investment in Africa’s ICT sector, limiting opportunities for technological advancement.

4. Target 16.10 (Access to Information & Fundamental Freedoms – Ensure public access to information and protect fundamental freedoms)
- Internet shutdowns violate the right to access information, suppress freedom of expression, and limit civic participation. Activists, journalists, and young leaders use digital platforms to advocate for social justice and democratic reforms. Shutdowns are often used to silence dissent, disrupt protests, and control narratives, undermining democratic institutions and human rights.

Speakers

Aaron Promise Mbah

Tech Policy, ISSEK

Aaron is a public policy enthusiast, technology & innovation strategist. His professional interest centers on issues relating to digital policy and management of emerging technologies. Currently, Aaron conducts research at the Institute for Statistical Studies and Economics of Knowledge... Read More →

Ganna Ayman

Olamiposi Fasina

Ganna Ayman

Friday May 23, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT
Workshop Room 1 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

Audience YouthIGF
Area Lightning talk, West Africa Youth IGF

10:00am WAT

Coffee Break

Friday May 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am WAT

Coffee Area

Friday May 23, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am WAT
Coffee Area

Area Coffee Break

10:30am WAT

Plenary Session : Digital Public Infrastructure, Policy Harmonization, and Digital Cooperation

Friday May 23, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm WAT

Main Hall

Friday May 23, 2025 10:30am - 12:00pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions

12:00pm WAT

AI and Education in West Africa: Shaping Policy for Responsible Integration

Friday May 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm WAT

Workshop Room 2

Session Duration: 90 Minutes

Session Type: Panel Discussion with Audience Engagement

Rationale

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming education by enabling personalized learning, automating tasks, and improving accessibility. However, in West Africa, integrating AI presents unique challenges, including infrastructure limitations, AI biases, and digital literacy gaps.

Session Objectives

Examine how AI can improve education in West Africa.

Address AI governance, bias, and data privacy concerns.

Explore the development of local AI-driven educational tools.

Identify policy actions for governments, institutions, and the private sector.

Encourage collaboration to close the digital skills gap.

Key Discussion Points

1. AI’s Role in Learning and Teaching

How is AI being used in West African classrooms?

Can AI bridge educational gaps in underserved communities?

How can AI assist teachers with planning and management?

2. Ethical Considerations and AI Risks

How can we mitigate AI-driven bias in education?

What policies should ensure student data protection?

How do we prevent AI from widening the digital divide?

3. Preparing for an AI-Driven Future

What AI skills should students learn?

How can AI literacy be integrated into curricula?

What role do public-private partnerships play?

4. Internet Governance and Regional Collaboration

What policies regulate AI use in education?

How can stakeholders collaborate to build an AI-ready system?

Session Format (90 Minutes)

1. Opening Remarks (15 min)

Moderator (5 min): Overview of AI’s role in education.

Keynote Speaker (10 min): AI’s impact on West African education.

2. Panel Discussion (40 min)

Experts from academia, government, tech industry, and civil society discuss:

AI’s impact on education.

Implementation challenges.

Ethical concerns and policy needs.

Preparing students for AI-driven careers.

3. Audience Q&A (20 min)

Attendees share insights and ask questions.

4. Actionable Takeaways (15 min)

Panelists offer final recommendations.

The moderator summarizes key points and next steps.

Expected Outcomes

Policy recommendations for AI integration in education.

A regional roadmap for AI adoption.

Commitments from stakeholders to support AI literacy.

Identification of pilot projects for AI-driven learning.

Enhanced regional collaboration on AI education.

Target Audience

Policymakers, educators, tech developers, civil society groups, and students.

Follow-Up Actions

Establish a regional working group on AI in education.

Develop a policy brief from session discussions.

Organize follow-up meetings to track progress.

Encourage pilot AI education initiatives in universities.

Conclusion

This session will drive practical solutions for responsible AI integration in education, ensuring West African students actively shape the region’s digital future.

Speakers

Abdulkarim Oloyede

Joan Mbesya

Abdulwaheed Musa

Friday May 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm WAT
Workshop Room 2 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

12:00pm WAT

DPI, Data Governance, and Gender-Sensitive ICT Policies: Fostering Inclusive Community Networks

Friday May 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm WAT

Main Hall

This session will explore the critical intersection of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), data governance, gender-sensitive ICT policies, and the development of community networks in West Africa. We will delve into how DPI can be leveraged to bridge the digital divide, particularly for marginalized communities, and how robust data governance frameworks can ensure equitable access and protection, especially for women and girls. We will critically examine the role of community networks in fostering digital inclusion, empowering local communities, and promoting gender equality.

Session Objectives:

1. To analyze the current state of DPI and data governance in West Africa, focusing on its impact on marginalized groups, particularly women and girls.
2. To discuss the challenges and opportunities in developing and implementing gender-sensitive ICT policies that promote digital inclusion and safety.
3. To explore the role of community networks in bridging the digital divide, empowering local communities, and promoting gender equality.
4. To identify best practices and collaborative strategies for building resilient, inclusive, and safe digital ecosystems in West Africa.
5. To develop actionable recommendations for policymakers, civil society organizations, and the private sector.

Proposed Panelist includes:

Mistura Aruna
Assistant Director at Nigerian Communications Commission(NCC).

Tope Ogundipe
Digital Equality, Safety & Rights | Executive Director, TechSocietal.

Catherine Kyalo
Digital Inclusion | Community Connectivity | Telecoms Policy | Project Coordinator | Strategy Development and Implementation | Stakeholder Engagement.

Angela Oduor Lungati - Executive Director - Ushahidi.

Elsie Attafuah
Resident Representative, UNDP Nigeria.

Moderator:
Dr. Akinbo Adebunmi
Executive Director, Success Bridge Community Development Foundation (SBCDF).

Key Questions for Discussion:

1. How can DPI be designed and implemented to ensure equitable access for all, particularly women and girls?

2. What are the key elements of a robust data governance framework that protects the rights of marginalized communities?

3. How can gender-sensitive ICT policies be effectively implemented and enforced?

4. What are the best practices for supporting the development and sustainability of community networks?

5. How can we ensure that community networks are safe spaces for women and girls?

6. How can regional collaboration enhance the development of inclusive DPI and data governance frameworks?

This session aims to foster a constructive dialogue and generate actionable recommendations for building a more inclusive and equitable digital future for West Africa.

Speakers

Adebunmi Adeola Akinbo

Opomulero...ambassador of culture, content and communication., DNS Africa Media and Communications

My name is Adebunmi Adeola AKINBO. I am currently the first ChAC Vice-Chair and in acting capacity at the moment. I am CEO of DNS Africa, a non-profit organization in the media sector. I run Online Radio Stations and work from a Rural Area, empowering and engaging the citizenship... Read More →

Friday May 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

NEW FIELD 1 Session

12:00pm WAT

Explore AI and technological innovation to improve public policy and foster economic growth

Friday May 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm WAT

Workshop Room 1

Dans un monde en mutation, l’intelligence artificielle (IA) et l’innovation technologique se positionnent comme des leviers essentiels pour transformer nos sociétés. Ce panel propose une exploration de la manière dont ces avancées peuvent être exploitées pour optimiser les politiques publiques et stimuler une croissance économique durable et inclusive en Afrique de l’Ouest.
La session abordera également les défis liés à la confidentialité et à la sécurité des données, ainsi que les possibilités de transformation numérique dans la gouvernance de nos États. La quête de souveraineté numérique pourrait être un facteur de cohésion à travers des politiques publiques de développement basées par exemple sur des stratégies nationales telles que le New Technologique Deal au Sénégal et le National Digital Développement by 2034 en Côte d’Ivoire.

Les participants bénéficieront d’analyses sur les meilleures pratiques et approches innovantes pour utiliser les données numériques afin de soutenir la prise de décision et générer des changements positifs dans l’administration publique ainsi que le développement économique de nos territoires.
Il s’agira également de savoir comment les collaborations et synergies peuvent être imaginées et mises en œuvre pour faire de l’espace ouest africain une force unifiée avec une population estimée à plus de 500 millions d’habitants.
Pour ce panel, la participation du Sénégal, du Bénin et de la Côte d’Ivoire est proposée avec modération par un membre d’une organisation de la société civile.

Les questions clés à traiter comprennent :
- Comment l’IA peut-elle améliorer la prise de décision publique et accroître l’efficacité des services gouvernementaux?
- Quels sont les mécanismes innovants pour assurer une adoption éthique et équitable de ces technologies ?
- Comment les gouvernements peuvent ils collaborer avec le secteur privé et la recherche pour maximiser les avantages économiques?

À travers des études de cas concrètes et des réflexions prospectives, ce panel vise à inspirer des stratégies audacieuses pour exploiter le potentiel de l’IA et de l’innovation technologique pour le développement humain et économique.

Speakers

Jaly Badiane

George Lamine Diop

Friday May 23, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm WAT
Workshop Room 1 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Cooperation and Global Internet Governance

Area French

1:00pm WAT

Lunch

Friday May 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm WAT

Coffee Area

Friday May 23, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm WAT
Coffee Area

Main WAIGF Sessions

2:00pm WAT

AI, Data Governance, and Innovation for Development.

Friday May 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm WAT

Main Hall

Friday May 23, 2025 2:00pm - 3:30pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

3:30pm WAT

Coffee Break

Friday May 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm WAT

Coffee Area

Friday May 23, 2025 3:30pm - 4:00pm WAT
Coffee Area

4:00pm WAT

Open Mic & Closing Ceremony

Friday May 23, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm WAT

Main Hall

Friday May 23, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Area Open Mic & Closing Ceremony

6:00pm WAT

Advancing West Africa’s Digital Future through the Global Digital Compact

Friday May 23, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm WAT

Main Hall

The Global Digital Compact (GDC), proposed under the United Nations framework, aims to foster an open, free, and secure digital future for all. Given the rapid digital transformation across West Africa, regional stakeholders must engage in discussions about the GDC’s principles and their implications for connectivity, digital inclusion, human rights, and digital cooperation in the region.

This session will focus on understanding the global digital compact: What does it mean for West Africa? It will also discuss bridging the digital divide by identifying strategies for ensuring universal and meaningful connectivity. The session will also discuss Data governance and digital rights as they relate to balancing security, privacy, and innovation. It will also discuss Promoting local content and digital entrepreneurship in the region and strengthening multi-stakeholder engagement in digital policy-making.

The session will further provide a platform to assess the challenges and opportunities of aligning West Africa’s digital governance priorities with the Global Digital Compact. It will explore the role of governments, private sector actors, civil society, and technical communities in shaping policies that ensure a more inclusive and equitable digital ecosystem.

This session outcome seeks to enhance West Africa’s participation in the conversations around implementing the recently adopted Global Digital Compact to ensure that the region’s unique challenges and opportunities are effectively represented.

Session Objectives:
Provide an overview of the Global Digital Compact and its relevance to West Africa’s digital landscape.
Discuss the role of regional and national policies in promoting inclusive digital governance.
Identify key challenges and opportunities in digital inclusion, connectivity, and cybersecurity.
Foster multi-stakeholder engagement to shape a regional perspective on the GDC.

Expected Outcomes:
Increased awareness and understanding of the Global Digital Compact among West African stakeholders.
Identification of priority areas for regional engagement in global digital policy discussions.
Recommendations for integrating West African perspectives into the Global Digital Compact framework.
Strengthened partnerships among governments, the private sector, and civil society for inclusive digital development
Session Format:
This interactive session will feature a combination of panel discussions and audience engagement. Participants will hear from leading voices in government, technology, and civil society who have firsthand experience shaping inclusive digital policies. Additionally, interactive breakout discussions will allow attendees to share their insights, challenges, and ideas for strengthening multi-stakeholder collaboration in digital governance.

Speakers

Emmanuel Kwasi Gadasu

Ihueze Nwobilor

Engr. Kunle Olorundare

SMIEEE

Gbenga Sesan

Adeboro Odunlami

Friday May 23, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm WAT
Main Hall NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Global Digital Compact (GDC)

6:00pm WAT

Governing AI in Health: from citizen vision to legislative action in West Africa

Friday May 23, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm WAT

Workshop Room 1

As artificial intelligence (AI) begins to shape healthcare systems worldwide, West African countries face a crucial question: how can we ensure that its development and application remain ethical, inclusive, secure, and aligned with regional realities? This session will bring together policymakers, healthcare professionals, tech innovators, legal experts, and civil society to collectively explore, design, and simulate a governance framework for AI in health.

This highly interactive workshop is designed in two complementary phases. The first phase is a participatory co-creation segment where participants will explore ethical, political, legal, and social concerns surrounding the use of AI in health. Using video stimuli, expert lightning talks, and small group activities, attendees will identify key risks, opportunities, and governance principles. Groups will work on themes such as medical ethics, data protection, accessibility, and the role of governments and startups. Outputs from this phase will include prioritized recommendations that reflect the diversity of perspectives in the room.

The second phase is a legislative simulation where participants take on the roles of ministries, parliamentarians, healthcare professionals, patients, startups, and legal experts. Through structured debate and negotiation, these delegations will propose and defend legal or regulatory articles based on the recommendations from phase one. The goal is to reach consensus on a set of guiding principles or “citizen articles” for a regional governance framework on AI in health.

By combining soft skills facilitation, role-play, group creativity and serious policy thinking, this session offers a unique experience that bridges field realities with institutional processes. The session will close with a collective commitment exercise, and a proposal to continue the dialogue through a post-WAIGF working group or regional charter initiative.

Participants will leave with a better understanding of AI’s governance challenges in healthcare, actionable ideas for national or regional frameworks, and connections with others working toward a safe and sovereign digital health future for West Africa.

Speakers

Ismaël Rachid Boro

Friday May 23, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm WAT
Workshop Room 1 NCC annexe office

West Africa Youth IGF, Digital Cooperation and Global Internet Governance

Area inclusive, West Africa Youth IGF
NEW FIELD 1 West Africa Youth IGF

6:00pm WAT

From Policy to Progress: The Role of Africa’s Parliaments in Advancing Tech Development

Friday May 23, 2025 6:00pm - 7:30pm WAT

Workshop Room 1

This session will examine the role of African parliaments in crafting policies that drive digital transformation and technological growth. It will provide a platform for legislators, civil society representatives, and tech industry stakeholders to discuss challenges, opportunities, and strategies for fostering a dynamic and inclusive digital ecosystem. The session will highlight the importance of strong legislative frameworks, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and regional policy harmonisation in accelerating Africa’s digital future.
Session Format
Opening Remarks: Brief introduction to the role of African parliaments in digital governance.
Panel Discussion: Experts will discuss key legislative trends, digital rights considerations, and economic implications.
Case Studies: Examples of successful legislative approaches to digital development in Africa.
Q&A Session: Participants will engage with panellists on practical strategies for bridging policy gaps and fostering collaboration.

Key Discussions
Legislative Frameworks for Digital Development

Current policies shaping Africa’s digital ecosystem.
Gaps and opportunities in existing legal frameworks.

Digital Rights, Governance, and Economic Growth
The impact of digital rights protection on economic and social progress.
Balancing innovation, regulation, and human rights in digital policies.
Bridging the Gap Between Policymakers and Tech Innovators

Challenges in aligning regulatory frameworks with technological advancements.
Best practices for fostering collaboration between governments and the private sector.

Strengthening Multi-Stakeholder Engagement

The role of civil society and international organizations in digital policymaking.
Strategies for inclusive and transparent legislative processes.

Why Attend?
Participants will gain insights into how legislative policies influence digital transformation and economic growth. The session will provide a space for dialogue on improving collaboration between policymakers, civil society, and tech stakeholders to ensure Africa’s digital policies are inclusive, forward-thinking, and conducive to innovation. Attendees will leave with practical recommendations on policy development, regional cooperation, and strategies for addressing key legislative challenges.
Who Should Attend?
Policymakers and legislators shaping digital governance frameworks.
Civil society organizations advocating for digital rights and inclusion.
Technology industry leaders and entrepreneurs driving innovation.
Legal professionals specializing in digital policies and regulations.
International organizations supporting Africa’s digital transformation.
Researchers and academics analyzing digital governance trends.
Media practitioners covering technology, policy, and governance.

This session will serve as a critical forum for discussing Africa’s digital policy landscape, fostering collaboration, and identifying pathways to accelerate inclusive digital transformation.

Speakers

Khadijah El-Usman

Paradigm Initiative, Senior Programs Officer, Anglophone West Africa

Gbenga Sesan

Friday May 23, 2025 6:00pm - 7:30pm WAT
Workshop Room 1 NCC annexe office

Parliamentary Track, Digital Cooperation and Global Internet Governance

Subject Parliamentary Track
Area Parliamentary Track
NEW FIELD 1 Parliamentary Track

West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025