The Africa IGF Multi-stakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) is inviting you for the First Open Consultation for Africa IGF 2025, a key step in engaging stakeholders to assess past experiences, establish priorities, and shape the agenda for the upcoming forum. Scheduled for 10 March 2025, at 10:00 UTC (13:00 EAT, 11:00 WAT), the consultation will be conducted online, with prior registration required.
Event Details
- Date: 10 March 2025
- Time: 10:00 UTC | 13:00 EAT | 11:00 WAT
- Location: Online
Agenda Overview
Opening Session: Setting the Stage (10:00 – 10:30 UTC)
The consultation will commence with welcome remarks from the AfIGF Multi-stakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) Chair, followed by remarks from the African Union Commission (AUC) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) representatives. Additionally, the host country will provide an update on the preparations for AfIGF 2025, offering insights into the logistical and thematic planning process.
Reflections on AfIGF 2024 & Thematic Priorities for 2025 (10:30 – 11:00 UTC)
The Africa IGF Secretariat will present a stocktaking summary, highlighting the key takeaways from Africa IGF 2024, including insights gained through the open mic process.
This session aims to:
- Reflect on lessons learned from previous forums.
- Engage stakeholders in a structured discussion to refine the key takeaways.
- Gather initial input on Africa IGF 2025 themes and emerging issues, ensuring a bottom-up, inclusive approach to agenda setting.
An interactive Q&A session will follow, providing stakeholders the opportunity to contribute additional insights and recommendations.
Defining Themes and Strategic Approaches (11:00 – 12:00 UTC)
At the heart of the consultation is the co-creation of a robust thematic structure for Africa IGF 2025. The session will feature a host country presentation, where the overarching theme and initial programme considerations will be unveiled.
Participants will engage in discussions on:
- The overarching theme and sub-themes.
- Programme structure and session design, including:
- Thematic tracks.
- Innovative session formats (e.g., panel discussions, fireside chats, workshops).
- Key programme components (e.g., AfriSIG, Parliamentary Track, Youth Summit, Main Session, High-Level Ministerial Roundtable).
Next Steps & Roadmap for Engagement
The session will conclude with a summary of key takeaways and an outline of the next steps for further refining the programme structure and community engagement efforts leading up to AfIGF 2025.
Why This Consultation Matters
The First Open Consultation is an essential milestone in Africa IGF’s participatory process, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping the forum’s agenda. It provides a unique opportunity for policymakers, civil society, private sector players, technical experts, and academia to co-create an inclusive and impactful event that advances Africa’s digital governance ecosystem.
Stay engaged and be part of the conversation shaping the future of Internet governance in Africa!
