OVER 1,200 internet stakeholders from across Africa and beyond are expected to convene in Dar es Salaam later this month for the African Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF).

Leo Magomba, the Information and Communication Technology director of ICT infrastructure, said at a media briefing in Dar es Salaam yesterday, that the forum is a major continental gathering aimed at advancing dialogue on internet connectivity, data governance, artificial intelligence (AI), digital rights and cyber-security.

Opening doors Thursday next week, the three day forum will bring together representatives from governments, civil society, the private sector, academia and technical communities, as a vital platform for collaboration and idea exchange on critical issues shaping the digital future of the African continent, he said.

The forum would focus on thematic areas aligned with Africa’s digital development goals, particularly over inclusion, governance and infrastructure expansion, he stated. “Despite ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity, many people, especially in rural areas, remain without reliable internet access,” he said, underlining that the forum offers an important opportunity to share expertise and strategies to broaden access to affordable internet and promote development.

Artificial intelligence will feature prominently in the discussions, with stakeholders set to explore its growing importance in daily life and the need for regional cooperation in technological advancement, he stated.

He stressed the importance of digital infrastructure to fully leverage AI benefits, calling for shared innovation to avoid duplicating efforts. He cited the unveiling of the Parliamentarian Track, a dedicated platform for legislators across Africa to engage in policy discussions around digital legislation, regional cooperation and the safeguarding of digital rights.

MPs from other regions are also expected to participate, promoting global dialogue and harmonised regulatory frameworks, he said, while Dr Nazar Kirama, national coordinator of the Tanzania Internet Governance Forum, highlighted the country’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide between urban and rural populations through affordable internet initiatives.

He also noted Tanzania’s status in global cybersecurity rankings, citing the latest ITU Global Cybersecurity Index, placing Tanzania first in East Africa and third on the continent for its cyber resilience.

Yusuph Kileo, a cybersecurity and digital forensics practitioner, emphasised the need for sustained public awareness campaigns to combat cybercrime and protect personal data.

“A good number of people are still unaware of how to safeguard themselves from cyber threats,” he said, pointing at the need to raise awareness for a more secure digital environment.

He also urged young people to take full advantage of the growing opportunities in the ICT sector to enhance their livelihoods and contribute to community development.“Many young people consume digital content without purpose. We must redirect this energy towards innovation and entrepreneurship,” he declared.

The AfIGF 2024 is expected to generate actionable outcomes that will influence policy, build capacity and amplify Africa’s voice in the global internet governance space, experts believe.