Annual Forum on Internet Freedom (FIFAfrica2024) in Dakar, Senegal.

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The 11th Annual Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa (FIFAfrica2024), co-hosted by the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA) and AfricTivistes, took place from September 25-27 in Dakar, Senegal. This marked the first time the flagship event was held in Francophone Africa, emphasizing the region’s growing role in shaping Africa’s digital landscape. Hosting the forum in Senegal was especially significant in a year seen as pivotal for democracy across the continent. Since its inception, FIFAfrica has been held in various countries, including Uganda, South Africa, Ghana, Ethiopia, Zambia, and Tanzania. The 11th edition further solidified its position as a vital platform for discussing Africa’s digital rights and governance.

This year’s forum brought together over 500 participants, including policymakers, legislators, journalists, activists, human rights defenders, academics, and representatives from telecommunications companies. The discussions highlighted gaps, challenges, and opportunities in addressing key issues such as online freedom of expression, internet accessibility for marginalized communities, and the protection of human rights in the digital space at both national and regional levels.

Pre-Event Activities

The main Forum was preceded by two days of pre-events, including hands-on workshops and training sessions. These preparatory activities equipped participants with essential skills and fostered dialogue on issues ranging from data governance to internet policy advocacy. Representing HER Internet, Executive Director Sandra Kwikiriza and Communications and Advocacy Lead Mulungi Sanyu actively participated, contributing to discussions and amplifying the voices of structurally silenced communities.

Mulungi Sanyu, Communications and Advocacy Lead at HER Internet attend a co-creation workshop organized by Enabel with a focus on developing a “Digital Rights Manual for Beginners.”

Highlights from the Forum

In his opening remarks, Dr. Wairagala Wakabi, Executive Director of CIPESA, lauded Senegal for its leadership in digital governance. “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 emphasized that FIFAfrica has evolved from a conversation into a movement that transcends borders, languages, and divides, actively shaping the future of digital democracy in Africa.

Speaking on behalf of Senegal’s government, Serigne Abdou Lahatt Sylla, head of the Office of Digital Services and Uses, reaffirmed Senegal’s commitment to digital rights. “Senegal is honored to host FIFAfrica 2024, 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 stated.

Cheikh Fall, President of AfricTivistes, emphasized the importance of local solutions to Africa’s digital challenges. He pointed out the unique position of the continent, grappling with the effects of multiple industrial revolutions while charting its own digital path. “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,” Fall noted.

Neema Lugangira, a Tanzanian Member of Parliament and Chair of the African Parliamentary Network on Internet Governance (APNIG), highlighted the role of lawmakers in driving 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 affirmed, commending CIPESA’s leadership in digital advocacy.

HER Internet’s Commitment

For HER Internet, being part of FIFAfrica 2024 was an opportunity to amplify the voices of marginalized groups—especially womxn and structurally silenced communities who are often left out of the digital rights conversation. By joining discussions and sharing our experiences, we reaffirmed our commitment to building safer, more inclusive online spaces for everyone. At HER Internet, we’re proud to be part of this journey, and we’re excited to keep pushing for the change our communities deserve.