West Africa Internet Governance Forum 2025: Full Schedule

Access the Agenda in English | Français | Português | عربي

8:00am WAT

National AI Policies and Startup Ecosystems in West Africa: Bridging Governance Gaps for Innovation

Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, West Africa stands at the crossroads of transformative innovation and dynamic economic growth. “National AI Policies and Startup Ecosystems in West Africa: Bridging Governance Gaps for Innovation and Growth” is a timely workshop that brings together key decision-makers, government representatives, and startup ecosystem leaders to critically examine the current state of national AI policies and their impact on nurturing a vibrant entrepreneurial environment.

This session will serve as an inclusive platform for dialogue, enabling stakeholders to identify and address significant governance gaps that hinder the full potential of AI-driven innovation. Through a series of engaging presentations and interactive discussions, the workshop will explore the challenges and opportunities inherent in the formulation and implementation of AI policies within the region. By critically assessing the interplay between national policy frameworks and startup ecosystems, the session aims to pave the way for robust policy recommendations that can accelerate economic growth and stimulate sustainable technological advancement.

The workshop structure is designed to maximize impact and encourage cross-sector collaboration. It will feature two keynote addresses delivered by thought leaders who have been at the forefront of AI policy development and innovation. These keynotes will provide a comprehensive overview of global best practices, highlight the unique challenges facing West African nations, and showcase case studies of successful policy interventions that have spurred entrepreneurial growth. Building on these insights, a panel session comprising distinguished speakers from both the government and startup communities will facilitate a rich exchange of ideas. This dialogue will focus on pinpointing existing policy deficiencies, discussing the regulatory environment, and strategizing on how to create a more enabling ecosystem for startups.

Additionally, the workshop will incorporate a poster session that presents emerging research and innovative projects related to AI policy and startup development. This segment will not only spotlight cutting-edge research but also foster an environment of academic and practical collaboration. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with researchers, ask questions, and discuss the implications of their findings for policy and practice.

The ultimate goal of this session is to create actionable recommendations that can guide policymakers and ecosystem leaders in refining AI strategies to better support startups, ensuring that technological innovation translates into tangible economic benefits for the region.

Moderators

Yazid S. Mikail

Speakers

Mohammed Bayero Yayandi

Thursday May 22, 2025 8:00am - 9:00am WAT
Workshop Room 1 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Artificial Intelligence

NEW FIELD 1 Session

9:00am WAT

Integrating AI and Data Governance into West Africa DPI

Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT

Workshop Room 1

The session will explore the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI), data governance, and innovation as catalysts for sustainable development across the diverse nations of West Africa. In an era where the global digital revolution is redefining economies and societies, AI and emerging technologies hold unparalleled promise to accelerate progress and tackle the region’s most persistent challenges—poverty, inequality, and limited access to essential services. Yet, this promise comes with profound questions: How do we ensure that these advancements serve all West Africans, from urban tech hubs to remote rural villages, and how do we address the complex barriers that stand in the way?
This interactive roundtable discussion is designed to bring together a dynamic mix of voices—policymakers, technologists, private sector innovators, academics, and civil society leaders—to grapple with these issues and co-create actionable solutions. Our objectives are clear and ambitious:
Strategic Alignment: To explore how national AI strategies can be developed and implemented to reflect both the unique needs of individual West African countries and the shared aspirations of regional frameworks like the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

Ethical Governance: To examine the policies and frameworks required to ensure data governance that is secure, ethical, and equitable, respecting the region’s rich diversity of cultures, languages, and legal traditions.

Inclusive Innovation: To investigate how technological innovations can drive economic growth and social inclusion, ensuring that no one is left behind in West Africa’s digital transformation.

Through an open and collaborative dialogue, this session will dive into five critical policy questions that will shape the future of AI and innovation in our region:
How can West African countries craft national AI strategies that not only align with continental goals but also address local realities—such as uneven infrastructure, limited digital literacy, and economic disparities—that differ from one nation to the next?

What data governance policies are needed to strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding privacy, security, and ethical standards in a region where regulatory capacity varies and legal systems diverge?

How can governments and the private sector collaborate to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that AI-driven solutions reach both urban centers and rural communities, transcending linguistic, cultural, and geographic barriers?

What role can regional cooperation play—through entities like the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)—in harmonizing AI and data policies to unlock cross-border innovation and strengthen economic integration?

This session is more than a conversation—it’s a call to action.

Moderators

Engr. Kunle Olorundare

Speakers

SMIEEE

Levy Syanseke

Raymond Mamattah

Eng T.D Nyarufuka

Thursday May 22, 2025 9:00am - 10:00am WAT
Workshop Room 1 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

NEW FIELD 1 Session

4:30pm WAT

Universal Acceptance and the New gTLDs: Unlocking West Africa’s Digital Potential

Thursday May 22, 2025 4:30pm - 5:30pm WAT

Workshop Room 1

Session Duration: 90 Minutes\
Session Type: Panel Discussion with Audience Engagement

Background

Universal Acceptance (UA) ensures that all domain names and email addresses, including those in non-Latin scripts and new generic top-level domains (gTLDs), work seamlessly across the internet. In West Africa, many users face challenges accessing online services due to language barriers, infrastructure gaps, and outdated systems that do not support UA-compliant domains.

With ICANN preparing for the next New gTLD Round, there is an opportunity for West African stakeholders—policymakers, businesses, civil society, and technical experts—to engage and advocate for more inclusive digital identities that reflect the region’s diverse linguistic and cultural landscape.

Session Objectives
Highlight UA’s role in digital inclusion and economic growth.

Address technical and policy challenges affecting UA adoption.

Explore opportunities in the next gTLD round for West Africa.

Identify key actions for governments, businesses, and developers.

Key Discussion Points
1. Understanding UA and Its Impact
What is Universal Acceptance, and why does it matter for West Africa?

How does UA affect access to online services, e-governance, and e-commerce?

2. Technical and Policy Barriers
Why do many websites and applications not recognize UA-compliant domains?

What infrastructure and regulatory changes are needed to support UA?

3. The New gTLD Round: West Africa’s Opportunity
How can West Africa participate in the new gTLD round?

What role can governments and the private sector play in advocating for UA?

4. Next Steps for Adoption
How can developers and businesses make their platforms UA-ready?

What training and capacity-building efforts are needed?

Session Format (90 Minutes)
1. Opening Remarks (15 min)
Moderator (5 min): Overview of UA and its significance.

Keynote Speaker (10 min): The future of UA in West Africa.

2. Panel Discussion (40 min)
Experts from government, tech, civil society, and private sector discuss:

UA adoption challenges and solutions.

Opportunities in the next gTLD round.

Policy and regulatory actions for UA compliance.

3. Audience Q&A (20 min)
Attendees ask questions and share insights.

4. Actionable Takeaways (15 min)
Panelists provide final recommendations.

Follow-Up Actions
Develop a regional roadmap for UA adoption.

Establish a West Africa UA task force.

Organize capacity-building workshops for developers and businesses.

Encourage local participation in ICANN’s UA initiatives.

Conclusion
By ensuring Universal Acceptance, West Africa can foster greater digital inclusivity, economic growth, and online accessibility. This session will equip stakeholders with the knowledge and tools needed to drive UA adoption across the region.

Speakers

Abdulkarim Oloyede

Amina Ramallan

Seda Akbulut

Thursday May 22, 2025 4:30pm - 5:30pm WAT
Workshop Room 1 NCC annexe office

Main WAIGF Sessions, Digital Public Infrastructure and Data Governance

Subject Universal Acceptance
Area Universal Acceptance
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

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

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

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