Digital Safety for Structurally Silenced Womxn in Urban Setting.

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According to UN Women, over 44% of Ugandan womxn have experienced technology-facilitated gender-based violence. This means that nearly half of all womxn in the country have faced harassment, surveillance, cyberstalking, or other forms of online abuse. The reality is even harsher for structurally silenced groups like LBQ womxn, who are often targeted simply for existing in digital spaces.

HER Internet, a feminist-led organization working to create safer digital environments for womxn, has long prioritized equipping structurally silenced communities with the tools to navigate online threats. Recently, Mulungi Sanyu, Communications Director at HER Internet, joined the Q-Media Advocacy podcast to shed light on the pressing need for digital safety for LBQ womxn living in urban areas. Speaking about the threats that come with being visible online, Mulungi noted, “Where there is an opportunity, there is a threat.” She emphasized that while the internet provides a powerful platform for advocacy, networking, and visibility, it also exposes womxn to targeted attacks such as online harassment and digital surveillance.

In Uganda, womxn face an unsettling range of online threats, including phishing scams, cyberstalking, hate speech, doxxing, and digital blackmail. Their online presence is often weaponized against them, leading to fear and self-censorship. Many womxn are forced to constantly assess the risks of speaking up, connecting with others, or even existing visibly online. Mulungi pointed out, “If an LBQ womxn knows how to safely navigate the internet, she won’t have to exclude herself because of cyber threats.” However, the challenges they face vary depending on where they live. In urban areas, access to technology is higher, and digital literacy levels are generally better, but this also means greater exposure to online risks. On the other hand, womxn in rural areas have limited access to digital literacy programs and fewer resources to protect themselves online, leaving them even more vulnerable to online attacks.

The consequences of online violence go beyond just internet access and extend to mental health, activism, and professional opportunities. “When a womxn is constantly harassed online, it creates emotional and psychological stress. She may withdraw from advocacy or even the internet altogether,” Mulungi explained. This kind of suppression is particularly harmful for LBQ activists, as it prevents them from mobilizing, participating in discussions, and exercising their right to freedom of expression. Over time, this withdrawal contributes to a shrinking civic space where fewer voices are able to challenge harmful narratives or fight for change.

Mulungi stressed that digital safety is not just about individual protection but also about sustaining advocacy and community connections. HER Internet works to ensure that LBQ womxn have the knowledge and tools to navigate the internet securely. One of the key ways to stay safe is by practicing strong security measures such as enabling Two-Factor Authentication (2FA), using secure messaging apps like Signal, and protecting devices with Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Another important aspect of digital safety is building community support by creating trusted networks where womxn can share safety tips and report threats. Digital literacy is also a critical part of online safety, and womxn can strengthen their knowledge by participating in workshops, following cybersecurity campaigns, and staying informed about emerging digital threats. HER Internet provides direct support for LBQ womxn who experience online harassment and runs capacity-building workshops to strengthen digital resilience, ensuring that structurally silenced communities are not forced into digital invisibility due to fear.

While personal safety practices are important, real change must happen at a systemic level. Mulungi emphasized that tech companies and policymakers have a responsibility to create safer online environments. “We need to promote digital inclusion to reduce the gender divide in internet access. It’s also crucial for tech companies to be held accountable for addressing online harassment and hate speech,” she stated. Beyond corporate responsibility, stronger laws must be enacted to criminalize cyberbullying, digital blackmail, and online violence against structurally silenced groups.

Mulungi concluded with a call to action, reminding all womxn that digital security is a continuous effort. “We must continue empowering ourselves with digital security skills. Something as simple as creating a strong password can make a difference,” she urged.

To listen to the full conversation and gain deeper insights into digital safety for LBQ womxn, check out the Q-Media Advocacy podcast here: https://youtu.be/V8_LpkWNzJ4?si=RSRrC3L0Yvo-s5sA

Biannual Newsletter 2024 Issue 8.

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Happy New Year from HER Internet! We’re excited to share our 8th Edition Biannual newsletter—a recap of our achievements and key moments from the second half of 2024.

Here’s a sneak peek at what’s inside:

Strengthening Digital Safety: Follow-up Training For Cohort 3.

#HERInternetAt6: Ilga Software Update Project in Commemoration of Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

Media and Information Literacy and Digital Skills Trainings in Partnership with FemPeaceEA Project.

Download your free copy here: https://www.herinternet.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Newsletter-DEC-2024-VOL-8-6.pdf. Thank you for being part of our story. Here’s to making 2025 even more impactful together!

Exploring Africa’s Digital Governance Future at AfriSIG 2024.

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In November 2024, HER Internet took part in the African School on Internet Governance (#AfriSIG2024), held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, organized by Association for Progressive Communications (APC). Mulungi Sanyu, Communications and Advocacy Lead at HER Internet, joined over 16 African countries’ participants including civil society, technical experts, government representatives, academia, the media, the private sector, and members of parliament, all coming together to discuss the digital governance challenges and opportunities facing Africa today.

AfriSIG 2024 focused on key themes, including the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (#ACFTA) and the African Union Data Privacy Framework (#AUDPF). These discussions examined how the frameworks intersect and the challenges of aligning the Digital Protocol with the AU Data Policy Framework. Participants collaborated on proposing practical strategies for better alignment and implementation.

Building Collaborative Engagement Through the Practicum

A highlight of AfriSIG 2024 was the practicum—an immersive, hands-on experience where participants practiced multi-stakeholder negotiations. This year’s practicum focused on aligning the objectives of ACFTA with the principles of AUDPF, providing a space for participants to explore solutions and build consensus on complex issues.

Mulungi Sanyu actively participated in the practicum, stepping outside of her usual role to take on new perspectives. This experience gave her a deeper understanding of the various viewpoints involved in digital governance policymaking and the complexities of reaching agreements. HER Internet’s contributions underscored the need for gender-sensitive data governance policies and the importance of ensuring that marginalized groups, such as structurally silenced womxn, are properly represented in discussions about digital rights.

A Vision for Africa’s Digital Future

AfriSIG 2024 highlighted the need for collective action to shape Africa’s digital governance landscape. The dynamic discussions and the expertise shared by the faculty emphasized the importance of working together to address the unique challenges the continent faces in the digital age. As Africa navigates the crossroads of trade, data privacy, and internet governance, HER Internet remains committed to advocating for policies and frameworks that ensure no one is left behind.

HER INTERNET CELEBRATES SIX REMARKABLE YEARS OF IMPACT.

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Good day everyone,

It is with immense pride and gratitude that I speak on behalf of HER Internet as we celebrate six remarkable years of impact. Six years of resilience, learning, and unwavering commitment to supporting womxn in navigating the digital world with confidence, security, and freedom.

When we started this journey, we knew that the online space, like every other sphere, could both empower and threaten. Our mission was clear: to ensure that womxn are not just participants but leaders, equipped with the knowledge and tools to safeguard our voices and identities. And today, I’m proud to say we have made strides in creating safer spaces for womxn online and building a future where our voices are heard without fear or compromise.

Through digital security awareness workshops and campaigns, media literacy programs, and advocacy for online freedom of speech, we have empowered thousands of womxn to protect themselves and demand their rights. We’ve also stood firm against online violence, working tirelessly to confront harassment, misinformation, and abuse that disproportionately affect womxn including LBQ womxn and other queer identities, sex workers, womxn living with disability, womxn living with HIV/AIDS.

This work would not have been possible without the support of our incredible community – our partner organisations, staff, supporters and of course, the communities of structurally silenced womxn whose courage inspires us every day. Each of you has been essential to building this movement. Together, we are reclaiming the digital space as a place for equality, expression, and opportunity.

But our journey is far from over. As technology evolves, so do the challenges, and we must continue adapting. We remain committed to expanding our reach, building stronger networks, and advocating for policies that center womxn’s voices in digital rights conversations.

Thank you all for being part of this mission. Let’s continue working together to ensure a digital future where every womxn, no matter where they are or what their circumstances are, can thrive safely and freely. Here’s to many more years of progress and impact!

Thank you.

To download the full statement via; https://www.herinternet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/HI-6th-Anniversary.pdf

 

Exploring the Digital Gender Divide on #WomenSpeaking Series.

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In a recent episode of #WomenSpeaking on Civic Space Tv, a panel hosted by Danita Turiho featuring inspiring women leaders including our Executive Director at HER Internet, Sandra Kwikiriza, delved into pressing issues of the digital gender divide and it’s impacts on womxn, this conversation brought to light the realities womxn face in digital spaces.

The digital gender divide refers to the growing disparity between men and womxn in access to technology, digital literacy and opportunities within the digital economy. Womxn, particularly for structurally silenced communities, often face structural barriers like cultural norms, financial constraints and lack of infrastructure that limit their engagement with digital tools and platforms, resulting in lost opportunities for education, employment and advocacy.

Sandra Kwikiriza emphasized the systemic barriers that prevent womxn from fully embracing the digital world.  “It’s not just about owning a device,” she explained, “the high prices of buying internet, the cost of buying a mobile device coupled with economic inequalities that disproportionately affect womxn from accessing internet especially in rural areas” which underscores the complex interplay of factors that contribute to digital exclusion in Uganda.

In this episode, the panel explored the roots of this divide, shedding light on the various ways it perpetuates inequality driven by cultural barriers, lack of education, and discriminatory policies. They also discussed the potential solutions such as, emphasizing the importance of inclusion, education of the available digital tools, policy reforms to bridge the gender gap. Their insights are not only eye-opening but also serve as a call to action for governments, private sectors and civil society organizations to work together to ensure that womxn can fully and freely participate in the digital environment.

This episode offers a timely reflection on the critical role digital access plays in empowering womxn and driving gender equality. For everyone interested in understanding the impacts of digital exclusion on womxn and how to close the gap, this conversation is a must-see.

Connect with the conversations via: https://youtu.be/F1Ydekcz2bQ?si=hc1A29U3ugJrQp0M

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.

East Africa Internet Governance Forum 2024.

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On September 11–12, 2024, HER Internet was honored to attend the East Africa Internet Governance Forum (EAIGF), convened under the theme “Building Our Multi-Stakeholder Digital Future for East Africa.” The forum hosted in Uganda, brought together a dynamic mix of policymakers, civil society organizations, tech innovators, academics, media and private sector leaders.

This year’s #EAIGF was more than a conference—it was a call to action. With East Africa’s digital landscape evolving rapidly, the forum addressed the critical challenges and opportunities shaping the region’s online ecosystem. Central to these discussions were key issues, such as bridging the digital divide, strengthening cybersecurity, safeguarding data privacy, fostering youth innovation, and embedding gender equity in internet governance. The forum was a hub for thought-provoking conversations and collaborative solution-building. Participants explored strategies to address regional disparities, including the gender digital divide, where 19% of Ugandan womxn are online compared to 27% 0f men reported by the World Wide Web Foundation—a stark reminder of the work still needed to ensure equitable access.

Among the highlights were panels that examined the rise of East Africa’s digital economy. Experts emphasized the importance of robust policies to promote internet accessibility while safeguarding users’ rights. “A truly inclusive digital future for East Africa begins with policies that serve everyone—especially womxn, youth, and marginalized groups,” one panelist remarked.

Discussions also spotlighted the role of young innovators in driving the region’s digital transformation. Programs supporting youth in tech through mentorship and funding were hailed as critical investments in the region’s future.

The #EAIGF 2024 concluded with a series of commitments aimed at fostering collaboration and inclusivity in internet governance:

  • Regional collaboration: Strengthening partnerships across East African nations to address cross-border issues like cybersecurity and internet accessibility.
  • Gender-inclusive policies: Integrating gender responsiveness into all aspects of internet governance to close the digital gender gap.
  • Youth empowerment: Establishing mentorship programs and funding opportunities to nurture young tech innovators.

This year’s forum underscored the immense potential of East Africa’s digital landscape and the collective power of multi-stakeholder collaboration. It set the stage for a future where the region’s digital advancements are inclusive, equitable and secure ensuring that East Africa thrives in the global digital era.

The National Youth Symposium: Addressing Technologically Facilitated Gender-Based Violence in Uganda by FIDA.

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On August 8th, 2024, we had the privilege of attending the National Youth Symposium organized by the Uganda Association of Women Lawyers (FIDA Uganda) at the Golf Course Hotel in Kampala. The event under the theme; Demystifying Technology Facilitated Gender-Based violence brought together a diverse group of young people, civil society organizations, lawmakers, experts, and leaders for an inter-generational discussion on Technologically Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV), a growing challenge in Uganda’s digital landscape.

The symposium commenced with an address by Joy Kirungi, an Advocate at FIDA Uganda, who underscored the urgent need for action. She stated, “As we celebrate our achievements and look to the future, we must acknowledge the evolving landscape in which we operate. We are living in the digital age, a time of unprecedented technological advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and beyond. These innovations hold great promise, but as the saying goes, ‘every good thing has its downside.”

Swedish Ambassador Maria Håkansson officially opened the symposium, expressing her appreciation for FIDA Uganda’s efforts in highlighting the issue of Tech-Facilitated GBV. In her remarks, she stated, “You are the leaders and change-makers, and you give us hope in fighting these issues. Let us continue to empower, educate, and elevate the voices of women and girls for a brighter future for all.”

The keynote speaker, Mr. Aggrey David Kibenge, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Gender, Labor, and Social Development, addressed the growing use of technology and how it has introduced new avenues for harming women and girls online. He remarked, “The use of technology has revolutionized communication; however, it has also introduced avenues for harm, particularly targeting women and girls. This includes the non-consensual sharing of intimate materials, which is a violation of human rights. The Government of Uganda is committed to addressing the threat of online violence while fostering a zero-tolerance attitude to eliminate impunity. The government has an obligation to respect and promote women’s rights.”

The panel discussions that followed delved into the legal gaps in combating TFGBV and protecting online users from such violence. Panelists highlighted the inadequacies and limitations of current laws, such as the Computer Misuse Act 2023, which includes provisions for hate speech, cyber harassment, and offensive communication. However, these provisions do not pass the constitutional test, making it challenging to hold perpetrators accountable, especially given the rapidly evolving nature of digital violence.

The symposium also explored recommendations and strategies for combating TFGBV. Among the solutions discussed were the need for digital literacy programs, stronger enforcement of existing laws, and the creation of safe reporting mechanisms for victims. A youth representative shared, “Empowering young people with the knowledge and resources to navigate the digital space safely is crucial. We must also ensure that when violence occurs, victims have accessible and supportive avenues to seek justice.”

The National Youth Symposium on Technologically Facilitated Gender-Based Violence concluded with a significant step forward in the fight against digital violence in Uganda. By fostering inter-generational dialogue and collaboration, the symposium not only raised awareness of the issue but also laid the groundwork for future advocacy and action. As Uganda continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, the insights and strategies shared at this event will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the country’s approach to TFGBV.

Biannual Newsletter 2024 Issue 7.

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Welcome to the 7th Edition of our Biannual Newsletter! We are excited to share the significant updates, milestones and developments from the first half of the year with you, from the official launch of the “RIPPLES” comic book in commemoration of the International Women’s Day to the release of our latest research report on Navigating Algorithms in relation to Structurally Silenced Communities in Uganda. To view or download, please click here; link; https://www.herinternet.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/HI-Newsletter-VL.-7-3.pdf

We hope you take a few moments to catch up with us and enjoy the content. Feel free to reach out with any feedback, questions, or inquiries. We greatly appreciate your ongoing support and wish you a wonderful rest of the year.

Empowering Womxn Through Digital Safety: HER Internet Hosts Online Safety and Security Training (Cohort 3).

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In an era dominated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and algorithms shaping our digital experiences, the need for comprehensive online safety and security training has never been more urgent. As we embrace the benefits of interconnected technologies, we also encounter heightened risks and vulnerabilities, particularly for structurally silenced communities like LBQ womxn. Recognizing this pressing need, on April 30th, 2024, HER Internet hosted a transformative one-day physical Online Safety and Security training (Cohort 3) with support from Tor Project team, for a diverse group of 20 womxn at our office premises in Kampala.

Co-facilitated by Sandra Kwikiriza, the Executive Director, and Kettie Kahume, the detailer at HER Internet. The training aimed to equip and empower womxn with essential skills and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape securely. The focus was on mitigating cyber threats and employing circumvention techniques to foster a safer online environment amidst the pervasive influence of AI and algorithms in both our offline and online lives.

Sandra Kwikiriza opened the session with an overview of digital safety tips for devices and communication,  “In this day and age, everyone is at risk of being compromised when their data is leaked,” she stated in her opening remarks. Emphasizing the critical need for individual digital security as it’s essential for everyone to adopt robust digital security practices to protect their personal information and ensure their online activities remain private.

One of the highlights of the training was the in-depth session on mitigating cyber threats, creating strong passwords, two-Factor authentication, recognizing phishing attempts, and securing personal data online. The cohort also explored topics like malware protection, encryption methods, and safe browsing practices. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, sharing their experiences and learning from real-world examples. One participant shared “Recently I have received WhatsApp messages from different numbers starting with +971… informing me about online job opportunities I had applied for, and asking me to click on the link to get the job, upon checking the shared website, I found a scam alert.”

 

Additionally, the Tor training component added a layer of anonymity and privacy to the participants’ online activities. Tor, short for “The Onion Router”, is a powerful tool for anonymizing internet traffic and accessing blocked content. The cohort learned how to use Tor effectively, ensuring their online communications and browsing habits remain private and secure.

By the end of the training, Sandra Kwikiriza and Kettie Kahume expertly guided the participants, combining theoretical knowledge with practical demonstrations. The hands-on approach enabled the womxn to grasp complex concepts easily and apply them in real-world scenarios. The participants emerged not just with newfound knowledge but also with a sense of empowerment and confidence in navigating the digital realm safely. One participant noted “The training was really educative, I was able to learn about certain aspects on the internet and security.” Another added, “I had a good time and the facilitators were very interactive used terms that were easy to understand.”

HER Internet’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering a safer online environment for womxn was palpable throughout the event. As we move forward in an ever-evolving digital landscape, initiatives like HER Internet’s Online safety and security training cohorts play a pivotal role in creating a more inclusive and secure online space for everyone, especially marginalized communities. Empowering womxn with digital safety skills is not just about protecting individuals; it’s about building a more resilient and equitable digital society for all.

To learn more about the online safety tips that were shared during the training, please read from here; https://www.herinternet.org/online-safety-tips-brochure/