The Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka in a statement stated that, “Nigeria is set to play host to 54 African nations and other continental internet governance stakeholders bloc at the 2023 Africa Internet Governance Forum”
Nigeria is poised to welcome delegates from 54 African nations and various continental Internet governance stakeholders to the 2023 Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF 2023) in Abuja, scheduled for September 18th to 21st, 2023.
This year marks the 12th edition of this influential annual forum, with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) taking the lead on behalf of the Federal Government. The event will be held at the prestigious Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, focusing on the theme, “Transforming Africa’s Digital Landscape: Empowering Inclusion, Security, and Innovation.”
The AfIGF 2023 is not merely a gathering; it’s a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration on Internet Governance. It aims to bring together stakeholders from various sectors and regional initiatives to advance digital connectivity, address Internet Governance challenges, and empower Africa through digital transformation.
Prior to the main event, the African Youth Internet Governance Forum will set the stage from September 13th to 18th, 2023. This youth-focused initiative emphasizes the importance of including young voices in shaping Africa’s digital future.
The AfIGF 2023’s program kicks off with the Parliamentarian Symposium, scheduled from September 18th to 19th, 2023. During this symposium, members of parliament from participating countries will gather for a roundtable discussion, seeking to better understand the legislature’s role and deepen synergy with parliaments on Internet Governance in Africa.
This event promises to be a rare gathering of key stakeholders from government, civil society, academia, the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector, and the private sector. Together, they will engage in critical discussions centered on the development, access, and governance of the Internet in Africa.
Structured as a series of gatherings, including dialogues, workshops, panel sessions, symposia, and roundtables, the AfIGF 2023 provides a vibrant and inclusive platform for stakeholders from across the African continent and international partners to shape the future of Internet Governance.
The event will feature plenary discussions, interactive workshops, and expert panels focusing on key topics like Digital Inclusion and Connectivity, Cyber Security and Data Protection, Digital Rights and Freedom of Expression, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emerging Technologies, E-Commerce and Digital Economy, and Data Governance and Trust.
Additionally, participants will delve into discussions surrounding the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, exploring how digital literacy and internet access can accelerate development across the continent.
The AfIGF 2023 boasts an impressive lineup of high-ranking speakers, policymakers, industry experts, and thought leaders from across Africa and beyond. Their collective expertise and insights are expected to generate actionable recommendations, informing policymaking, driving investments, and reshaping the future of Internet Governance in Africa. This event holds the promise of charting a course toward a more inclusive and prosperous digital future for the continent.