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.
