FIFAfrica is an annual assembly of discussions towards promoting a Free and Open Internet in Africa. The topics explored to-date include discussions around the growing presence of online violence against women (VAW), whose magnitude and manifestation is not clearly known, as most cases in Africa go unreported.
Combating hate speech and violations of freedom of expression including during periods of electioneering
Empowering media as infomediaries and advocates of digital rights whilst also recognizing them as a vulnerable group
Advocating for increased judicial oversight over surveillance and interception of communications
Bridging the gap between techies and Human Rights Defenders
As internet use has risen in Africa, so have the abuses and attacks on internet freedom, including a proliferation of laws, legal and extra-legal affronts, as well as limited judicial oversight over surveillance and interception of communications. This calls for need to address gaps (policy and legislative) in the right to privacy and continued capacity building and awareness raising among citizens, media, human rights defenders and activists on the appreciation of digital safety tools and practices.
In light of the current Covid-19 reality, FIFAfrica20 will adopt a hybrid approach which blends online and physical interactions. Over the course of three days, the FIFAfrica20 agenda will feature physical and virtual engagements, including satellite events in select countries, virtual sessions, and pre-recorded content. All interactions will maintain national Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Meanwhile, web streaming and social media will be utilised to reach and engage disparate audiences keen on participating in the Forum. The select countries will be announced ahead of the Forum
The Forum on Internet Freedom In Africa (FIFAfrica) has been supported by an amazing lineup of organisations and programs. If you are interested in supporting the community advocating for internet freedom in Africa, , please contact us at
programmes@cipesa.org
