The Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) is in a phase of dynamic growth and we are actively seeking exceptional individuals to join our team. We are excited to announce two job opportunities, and the application window remains open until October 31, 2024. To explore further, simply click on the role that resonates most with you:
By Shamira Ahmed |
As Africa navigates the complexities of digital transformation, the African Union’s Data Policy Framework (DPF) has been heralded as a key instrument for establishing coherent data governance across the continent. However, in the specific context of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), its digital trade ambitions, and the complexities of international rules governing cross-border data flows (CBDF) and digital trade the question arises:
Can the AU Data Policy Framework (DPF) support Digital Trade in SACU?
For SACU member states (MS)—comprising Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, and South Africa—digital trade can be a key facilitator of economic development.
While the DPF offers important guiding principles, the Data Economy Policy Hub (DepHUB) supported by the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) have published a paper and policy brief on “Assessing the Suitability of the African Union Data Policy Framework for Digital Trade in Africa: A South African Customs Union (SACU) Case Study” thatreveals shortcomings regarding the DPF according to three main categories, namely, approach, implementation, and scope that affect its suitability for SACU’s digital trade aspirations.
SACU has the potential to leverage digitalisation to enhance trade facilitation, revenue collection, and competitiveness. However, SACU’s digital landscape is still evolving, with varying levels of endowments, capabilities, and enablers such as digital infrastructure, robust data governance policies, and regulatory frameworks amongst the SACU member states, which pose a significant challenge to deepening SACU integration.
Furthermore, the successful integration of digital trade within the African context relies on the effectiveness and harmonization of various prerequisites and enablers, such as cross-border data policy frameworks and essential network infrastructure, among others, to support an inclusive digital single market.
The DPF offers an essential starting point for SACU’s engagement with digital trade, but it falls short in several key areas:
Scope: The DPF does not include data governance issues that impact digital trade such as all the dimensions of data interoperability, gender inequality, and environmental sustainability. Addressing these gaps is crucial for ensuring that SACU’s digital trade is not only economically inclusive but also socially and environmentally responsible.
To fully capitalize on the potential of digital technologies for economic growth, SACU countries need a more harmonized and collaborative approach to data governance.
A proactive sociotechnical approach, which better addresses the complexity of the data economy, must be adopted to balance the risks and benefits of digital transformation.
To overcome multidimensional barriers, SACU member states must adopt a transversal approach that aligns digital trade policies with broader economic, regulatory, and infrastructure goals. A transversal approach requires a much-needed focus on both supply-side policies, such as enhancing digital public infrastructure, and demand-side policies, such as promoting digital capabilities.
Update |
Technology was supposed to be a great equalizer in Africa’s democratic journey, but as the “State of Internet Freedom in Africa 2024” report reveals, technology has instead become a tool for authoritarian control.
As internet shutdowns, disinformation, and the digital divide grow, the hope for transparent elections continues to dim away, writes FRANK KISAKYE.
Technologies initially seen as tools to empower Africa’s youth and dismantle authoritarian regimes have, paradoxically, become instruments of digital repression. Rather than facilitating democratic transitions, politicians are exploiting these innovations for misinformation, censorship and disinformation.
Hopes were high as mobile phone usage and internet access rapidly expanded across the continent, reaching 43 per cent mobile penetration with 489 million unique subscribers and 25 per cent internet penetration with 287 million mobile internet users. These advances were expected to modernize electoral processes through biometric voter registration, digital verification methods, and faster result transmission.
However, the “State of Internet Freedom in Africa 2024” report by the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) reveals a darker reality. Rather than promoting transparency, governments have turned to technology to undermine elections, suppress dissent and manipulate outcomes.
Launched in Dakar, Senegal, at the 2024 Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa (FIFAfrica) which was co-hosted by CIPESA and AfricTivistes, the report emphasizes how digital repression has become a key tool for authoritarian regimes.
Cheikh Fall, president of AfricTivistes, urged the continent to develop indigenous digital frameworks, saying, “Africa’s greatest challenge today is that it is experiencing the effects of all three industrial revolutions that shaped the world. We must create homegrown technologies and frameworks that address the continent’s unique needs and aspirations.”
INTERNET SHUTDOWNS
The report highlights countries such as Chad, Gabon, Uganda, and Zimbabwe, where internet disruptions and shutdowns have been used during elections and protests to stifle political opposition and control information. Since 2022, over 18 election-related internet disruptions have been recorded across Africa, a clear sign of growing digital authoritarianism. Rather than embracing transparency, these regimes are using technology to erode democratic governance.
Internet censorship, surveillance, and repressive laws are also key tactics used to weaken civic participation. Countries like Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Mali have engaged in targeted surveillance of political opponents and human rights defenders. The result is an environment where citizens fear participating in democratic processes, fearing reprisal and distrusting government institutions.
For example, Uganda has blocked Facebook since 2021 after President Yoweri Museveni accused the platform of siding with the opposition by deactivating accounts linked to his ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). Facebook accused NRM of creating ‘fake accounts’ to manipulate the electoral process. This growing trend toward digital suppression makes it increasingly difficult for citizens to engage politically.
In 2023 alone, African governments imposed 283 internet shutdowns in 39 countries – a 41 per cent increase from 201 shutdowns in 2022. Ten of these shutdowns specifically targeted social media platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter), which were once seen as tools for youth empowerment.
Instead, these platforms have become victims of repression, preventing young people from using them to effect political change. Despite 2024 being a pivotal year for African democracy, with over 20 countries heading to the polls, authoritarian regimes are doubling down on their use of technology to suppress opposition and manipulate electoral outcomes. This year could further erode trust in electoral transparency as governments increasingly seize control of internet governance.
Internet shutdowns have far-reaching consequences beyond politics. In conflict zones like Gaza, Myanmar, and Sudan, shutdowns disrupt essential services, including humanitarian aid. African countries are no exception. For instance, Algeria lost an estimated $70.4 million due to internet disruptions between 2019 and 2024.
Ugandan advocate Michael Aboneka warns that the continent may see even more internet shutdowns as regimes aim to control narratives during elections and protests. The economic and social costs are profound – undermining public trust in election outcomes and exacerbating political tensions.
Disinformation has also emerged as a key tactic to manipulate African elections. The CIPESA report highlights the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) to create fake content that misleads voters. Politicians are weaponizing AI to discredit electoral bodies and deepen political polarization.
In Uganda, for example, AI-generated disinformation has fueled the power struggles between prominent figures such as General Muhoozi Kainerugaba and President Museveni’s son-in-law, Odrek Rwabwogo. This not only confuses voters but also distorts the political landscape, making it difficult for citizens to make informed choices.
The proliferation of disinformation diminishes trust in democratic institutions, and AI’s ability to amplify these false narratives poses a growing challenge to fair elections.
While technology has transformed some aspects of African elections, the digital divide remains a significant barrier. High data costs, poor infrastructure, and limited digital literacy exclude large portions of the population, particularly rural communities, women, and people with disabilities.
Countries like Zimbabwe, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic have some of the most expensive mobile data prices globally, preventing many citizens from accessing crucial information and participating in online civic spaces. This deepens political inequalities and prevents marginalized groups from fully engaging in the democratic process.
This article was first published on the Observer website on October 09, 2024.
Read full report on the State of Internet Freedom in Africa (SIFA) 2024.
FIFAfrica24 |
On September 26, 2024, the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa (FIFAfrica24) kicked off with over 420 delegates from across Africa and beyond. FIFAfrica24, now in its 11th year serves as a platform for concerted efforts to advance digital rights in Africa and to promote the multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance. It places internet freedom directly on the agendas of key stakeholders, including policymakers, journalists, activists, global platform operators, telecommunications companies, regulators, human rights defenders, academia, and law enforcement.
Co-hosted by the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) and AfricTivistes, the main Forum was preceded by two days of pre-events, including workshops and training sessions designed to equip participants with critical skills and foster meaningful dialogue on digital rights and internet governance.
This year’s forum marks a historic first, as it is the first time FIFAfrica is hosted in a Francophone African country, during what has been dubbed the Year of Democracy. Previous editions have been held in Uganda, South Africa, Ghana, Ethiopia, Zambia, and Tanzania.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Wairagala Wakabi, Executive Director of CIPESA, emphasised Senegal’s importance as host. “Senegal’s progressive approach to data governance, its commitment to artificial intelligence, and its strides in developing a comprehensive National Data Strategy make it the ideal location for this year’s discussions,” said Dr. Wakabi. He added that, the Forum, which started as a conversation has “evolved into a powerful movement. A movement that transcends borders and languages, and one that actively shapes the future of digital democracy on this continent.”
Speaking on behalf of Senegal’s government, Serigne Abdou Lahatt Sylla, head of the Office of Digital Services and Uses, emphasised the country’s efforts aimed at protecting digital rights and stated, “Senegal is honored to host FIFAfrica24, reaffirming our commitment to advancing digital rights and democracy. As we continue to develop our technological capabilities, protecting the rights of our citizens remains our priority,” Sylla remarked.
Cheikh Fall, President of AfricTivistes, highlighted the ongoing challenge of digital access and use in Africa. He emphasized the urgent need for the continent to develop its own digital frameworks, stating, “Africa’s greatest challenge today is that it is experiencing the effects of all three industrial revolutions that shaped the world. We must create homegrown technologies and frameworks that address the continent’s unique needs and aspirations.”
Tanzanian Member of Parliament and Chair of the African Parliamentary Network on Internet Governance (APNIG), Neema Lugangira, commended CIPESA’s efforts, affirming that African legislators are committed to supporting inclusive internet access and safeguarding digital rights. “Legislators across the continent are committed to fostering inclusive internet access and supporting CIPESA’s initiatives to advance digital freedoms,” Lugangira said.
FIFAfrica has commemorated the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) since it was proclaimed by the UNESCO General Conference in 2015, following the adoption of 38 C/Resolution 57proclamation. In this regard, Michel Elvis Kenmoei, UNESCO’s West Africa Adviser for Communication and Information, stated, “Digital rights are fundamental human rights. As the world becomes more connected, we must ensure freedom of expression, privacy, and access to information for all.”
Kenmoei went on to reiterate the call for the respect of access to information in a keynote panel discussion that also featured Conor Sanchez, a Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Content Policy at Meta, Aisha Dabo, Programs Coordinator at Africtivistes, Sarah Kekeli Akunor, of the Ghana Blind Union, and activist Catherine M’seteka affiliated with the International Domestic Workers Federation (IDWF). The panel called for more inclusion of marginalised communities while there was also the recognition that platforms are working at enhancing efforts aimed at ensuring that they do not infringe on user rights and freedoms.
With discussions spanning a wide array of digital rights issues, FIFAfrica24 is set to continue as a critical platform for shaping the future of internet freedom and digital democracy in Africa. As such, the event will conclude with the launch of the annual State of Internet Freedom in Africa report which will focus on the theme of technology and elections.
Join the Conversation
Be sure to stay connected, follow the debates and discussions, and contribute your thoughts and insights to the #InternetFreedomAfrica community. Follow @cipesaug and FIFAfrica24 co-host @AfricTivistes for updates!
Queries
Send queries to [email protected]
FIFAfrica24 |
This week, the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa 2024 (FIFAfrica24), the continent’s leading event on digital rights, is set to take place from September 24-27, 2024 in Dakar, Senegal. This year’s forum promises to be an exciting convergence of digital rights advocates, the private sector, policymakers, and civil society actors from across Africa and beyond. It also features over 150 expert speakers, participating across 55 sessions.
Now in its 11th year, the Forum is hosted annually by the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA). This year, CIPESA is co-hosting the event alongside Dakar-based AfricTivistes, marking a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to advance digital democracy, particularly in Francophone Africa during what has been touted as the Year of Democracy.
FIFAfrica24 kicks off with two days of pre-events (24-25 September), which include strategic meetings and workshops as well as training sessions designed to equip participants with critical skills and foster meaningful dialogue on digital rights issues. This will be followed by two days of public access (26-27 September), where attendees will engage in robust discussions around seven tracks:
See the Agenda | Meet the Speakers
In addition to thought-provoking panel discussions and dynamic lightning talks, FIFAfrica24 will host a vibrant exhibition featuring nine exhibitors showcasing their work. This exhibition offers attendees a unique opportunity to explore innovative projects and engage directly with a diverse range of actors driving change in Africa’s digital landscape.
Furthermore, FIFAfrica24 will host a bilingual Digital Security Hub, providing hands-on support in English and French to help participants strengthen their digital resilience. This hub will serve as a crucial resource for activists, journalists, and civil society organisations operating in challenging environments.
As the digital age in Africa continues to evolve FIFAfrica24 offers a unique opportunity to build collaborations and advance digital transformation across the continent.
For more information, visit the FIFAfrica24 website or follow us on social media using #FIFAfrica24 and #InternetFreedomAfrica.
Please direct any media-related queries to [email protected]
About AfricTivistes
Established in 2015, AfricTivistes – the African League of Cyber-Activists and Bloggers for Democracy is a pan-African organisation that promotes and defends democracy, good governance and human rights through digital means. Across its programs, AfricTivistes works to foster digital transformation and enhanced citizenship in Africa led by change actors.
About CIPESA
CIPESA was established in 2004 in response to the findings of the Louder Voices Report for the UK’s then Department for International Development (DFID), which cited the lack of easy, affordable and timely access to information about ICT-related issues and processes as a key barrier to effective and inclusive ICT policy making in Africa.
CIPESA’s work continues to respond to a shortage of information, resources and actors consistently working at the nexus of technology, human rights and society. Initially set up with a focus on research in East and Southern African countries, CIPESA has since expanded its efforts to include advocacy, capacity development and movement building across the African continent.
About the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa
FIFAfrica is a landmark event that brings together a diverse array of stakeholders from across the internet governance and digital rights spheres in Africa and beyond to deliberate on critical gaps, challenges, and opportunities for advancing privacy, free expression, inclusion, the free flow of information, civic participation, and innovation online.
Over the years, FIFAfrica has grown to serve as a vital response to the mounting obstacles facing internet freedom across African nations, including threats such as arrests and intimidation of online users, internet disruptions, and the proliferation of laws and inclusive regulations that stifle the potential of digital technology for socio-economic and political development on the continent.
By placing internet freedom directly on the agenda of key stakeholders, including African policymakers, global platform operators, telecommunications companies, regulators, human rights defenders, academia, law enforcement, and the media, FIFAfrica sets the stage for concerted efforts to advance digital rights in Africa and promote the multi-stakeholder model of internet governance.
In 2023, FIFAfrica marked a decade of existence and in 2024, will see the first edition to be hosted in Francophone Africa. Previous editions have been hosted in Uganda, South Africa, Ghana, Ethiopia, Zambia and Tanzania.