IGF 2025 Networking Session #86 Interoperable Data Governance: Trust, AI, and Inclusion

    African Parliamentary Network on Internet Governance
    Gabriel Karsan, APNIG, Civil Society, Africa Hon. Neema Lugangira, Chair- APNIG, Government Africa Hon. Agho Oliver, APNIG, Africa
    Speakers
    Hon. Ben Phiri, APNIG, Goverment, Africa Hon. Minister. Lyida akanvariba , APNIG, Government , Africa Hon. Susan Dossi, APNIG, Africa Ayden Ferdeline, Interledger foundation, Civil society, America Rob Reevs, Tazama Foundation, Technical group, Europe
    Onsite Moderator
    Hon. Neema Lugangira
    Online Moderator
    Hon. Agho Oliver
    Rapporteur
    Gabriel Karsan
    SDGs
    8. Decent Work and Economic Growth
    9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
    16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions


    Targets: SDG 8 by Fostering financial inclusion through interoperable payment systems. SDG 9: via Developing open, secure digital financial ecosystems. SDG 16:by Strengthening policy coordination and trust in digital governance.
    Format
    Roundtable

    our session will feature a high-level multistakeholder dialogue, incorporating: Expert-led discussions – Policymakers, technologists, financial inclusion experts, and AI governance scholars. Comparative case studies – Best practices from AU, EU, China, and US models. Legislative insights – APNIG’s role in shaping AI and digital finance laws. interactive debate – Identifying challenges and building pathways for interoperability, security, and digital trust.
    Duration (minutes)
    60
    Description
    As digital transformation accelerates, data governance and interoperability have emerged as critical enablers of financial inclusion, AI regulation, and cross-border digital trust. This session will explore how open, secure, and harmonized data frameworks can support inclusive economic growth, particularly in emerging markets and developing regions. The discussion will draw from the Global Digital Compact (GDC), the AU Digital Data Policy Framework, and case studies from leading interoperable systems such as Mojaloop and TAZAMA. Through a multistakeholder dialogue, we will examine: - How interoperable data ecosystems foster secure and inclusive financial transactions. - Comparative data governance models from the AU, EU (GDPR), US, and China. -The role of AI and ethical data use in shaping responsible digital finance. -Strategies for aligning digital policy frameworks across governments, industry, and civil society. This session links to the IGF 2025 issue areas, particularly in AI governance, financial inclusion, and digital trust. It aims to bridge legislative, technical, and regulatory gaps, ensuring that Africa’s digital economy aligns with global governance models while prioritizing people-centered development.

    we will employ a Dual Moderation Approach with dedicated onsite moderator and an online co-moderator will facilitate discussions, ensuring a balanced interaction between both participant groups. Live Q&A & Polling – Using Mentimeter, both in-person and virtual attendees can submit live questions, vote on discussion topics, and provide real-time feedback. Dedicated Online Speaker Slots A structured hybrid speaker lineup will allow remote experts and parliamentarians to present alongside onsite panelists, ensuring equitable representation.Dynamic Panel Format – Rather than a traditional panel setup, the session will be moderated as a live policy roundtable, encouraging both virtual and onsite contributions. Regional Spotlight – APNIG will introduce live updates from African legislators and financial policymakers, ensuring that voices from the Global South are amplified in the global discussion. Breakout Think Tank – Online and onsite participants will collaborate in regional breakout discussions, presenting key findings to the plenary.