The 12th edition of the Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF 2023) kicks off in Abuja, Nigeria from 18th to 21 September, 2023 with 54 African nations and other continental Internet governance stakeholder blocs in attendance.

Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) which will host the event at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, with the theme, “Transforming Africa’s Digital Landscape: Empowering Inclusion, Security, and Innovation,” is projecting it as a viable platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration on Internet Governance issues, using regional initiatives to advance digital connectivity, address Internet Governance challenges, and empower Africa through digital transformation. 
Stakeholders and investors in Africa’s digital future include government officials, civil society, academia, the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector, and a broad spectrum of actors in the private sector.
A press statement signed by NCC’s Director of Public Affairs, Reuben Muoka, said the forum will focus on the development, access, and governance of the Internet in Africa. He said the forum will feature workshops, panel sessions, symposia, and roundtables and focus on discussions that will shape the future of Internet Governance. 

The event will be preceded by the African Youth Internet Governance Forum, which takes place from 13-18 September, 2023. 

A Preamble to the main events is the Parliamentarian Symposium, scheduled to take place from 18-19 September 2023 where members of the parliament from all participating countries will network at a roundtable designed to better understanding of the roles of the legislature, and enhance a deeper synergy with parliaments on Internet Governance in Africa.

Other focal sessions at the event include plenary discussions, interactive workshops, and expert panels focusing on Digital Inclusion and Connectivity; Cyber Security and Data Protection; Digital Rights and Freedom of Expression; Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emerging Technologies; E-Commence and Digital Economy; and Data Governance and Trust etc.

Stakeholders will also discuss the 17 Sustainable Development Goals in the context of digital literacy and internet access in a manner that can accelerate development for the continent. 

“The event will feature high-ranking speakers, policymakers, industry experts, and thought leaders from across Africa and beyond,” the statement said.