IGF 2025 WS #45 Unlocking Digital Opportunities for Marginalized Communities

    Organizer 1: Civil Society, African Group
    Organizer 2: Civil Society, African Group
    Speaker 1: Arsene Tungali, Civil Society, African Group
    Speaker 2: Remmy Nweke, Civil Society, African Group
    Speaker 3: Brenda Zulu, Technical Community, African Group
    Speaker 4: Sandra Aceng, Civil Society, African Group
    Format
    Roundtable
    Duration (minutes): 90
    Format description: The proposed session format is best suited for this activity due to the following reasons: - Interactive discussions: A roundtable setup with a maximum of 30 participants will facilitate interactive discussions, allowing for active engagement and exchange of ideas. - Collaborative problem-solving: The 60-minute duration provides sufficient time for participants to engage in collaborative problem-solving, sharing experiences and expertise to address data governance challenges. - Networking opportunities: The format allows for networking opportunities, enabling participants to establish connections with peers and stakeholders in the data governance ecosystem. - Focused discussions: The moderate size of the group ensures focused discussions, preventing dilution of ideas and maintaining a high level of engagement.
    Policy Question(s)
    This proposal responds to the following policy questions: 1. How can sector policies be harmonized to enhance data value and promote economic development in Nigeria? 2. What are the key challenges and opportunities for implementing effective data governance policies in Nigeria? 3. How can data governance policies promote transparency, accountability, and trust in government and private sector institutions in Nigeria? These questions highlight the need for a coordinated approach to data governance in Africa, and this proposal provides a framework for addressing these challenges.
    What will participants gain from attending this session? Participants and attendees of this session will expect to gain: 1. New knowledge: Understanding of data governance in Nigeria and the importance of harmonizing sector policies. 2. Diverse perspectives: Insights from experts and stakeholders from various sectors. 3. New tools and frameworks: Practical guidance on developing and implementing effective data governance policies. 4. Enhanced understanding :Appreciation of the role of data governance in promoting economic development and transparency. 5. Networking opportunities: Connections with professionals working in data governance and policy development. By attending, participants will gain valuable insights, knowledge, and tools to inform their work on data governance and policy development in Africa
    Description:

    This session will explore the challenges communities in Africa face in accessing the Internet and examine the opportunities for accessing technology. It will also explore issues related to protecting users’ digital rights, especially for marginalized communities and vulnerable communities (women, people with disabilities, etc). The discussion will focus on the experiences of women, youth, and rural communities. It will examine the role of policymakers, industry leaders, media and civil society organizations in addressing access and rights barriers.
    Expected Outcomes
    This project aims to achieve the following outcomes: 1. Improved data governance framework: A comprehensive framework harmonizing sector policies and promoting effective data management across Africa. 2. Enhanced data value: Increased data value through improved quality, accessibility, and sharing, driving economic growth and development. 3. Increased transparency and accountability: Data governance policies promoting transparency, accountability, and trust in government and private sector institutions. 4. Strengthened institutional capacity: Strengthened capacity of institutions to manage and use data effectively. 5. Better decision-making: Improved decision-making through accurate and reliable data. These outcomes will promote economic development, improve public services, and enhance transparency and accountability across Africa.
    Hybrid Format: To ensure a rich and inclusive experience for both on-site and online participants, the session will be designed as follows: - Live streaming: The session will be live-streamed to allow online participants to follow the discussions in real-time. - Interactive Q&A: Online participants will be able to pose questions and engage in discussions through a designated online platform. - Real-time chat: A live chat feature will enable online participants to interact with each other and the session moderators. - On-site facilitation: A designated facilitator will ensure that online participants' questions and comments are addressed and integrated into the on-site discussion. - Post-session engagement: Session recordings and materials will be made available online, allowing participants to continue the discussion and access resources after the session.