West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025: Full Schedule

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9:00am WAT

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

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

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 →

Audience YouthIGF
Area Lightning talk, West Africa Youth IGF

West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025

West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025

9:00am WAT

Aaron Promise Mbah

Ganna Ayman

Olamiposi Fasina

Ganna Ayman