Call for Session Proposals: AfIGF 2023

2023 African IGF Theme

Transforming Africa’s Digital Landscape: Empowering Inclusion, Security, and Innovation

The African Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) invites stakeholders who are passionate about shaping the digital landscape in Africa to organize engaging sessions under the following subthemes: Cybercrime and Online Safety, Cybersecurity, AI & Emerging Technologies, Digital Divides and Inclusion, Human Rights and Freedoms, Data Governance and Trust, and Universal Access and Meaningful Connectivity. We are looking for innovative and insightful workshop proposals, lightning talks, open forums, town halls, launches, award ceremonies, and pre-event activities.

Why Participate?
Participating in AfIGF 2023 offers a unique opportunity to share your expertise, knowledge, and experiences with a diverse audience of stakeholders, including government officials, policymakers, civil society organizations, industry leaders, and technical experts. By organizing a session, you can actively contribute to the development of digital policies and strategies in Africa, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and help shape the future of the internet in the region.

Submission Guidelines:

To apply, please submit a comprehensive session proposal using the provided template, ensuring that it aligns with one of the subthemes listed below:

1. Cybercrime and Online Safety: Addressing the challenges and solutions related to cybercrime, online fraud, and ensuring a safe digital environment for all users.
2. Cybersecurity: Exploring the latest advancements, best practices, and policy frameworks in cybersecurity to safeguard critical infrastructure and protect digital assets.
3. AI & Emerging Technologies: Discussing the ethical, legal, and social implications of artificial intelligence, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), and other emerging technologies in Africa.
4. Digital Divides and Inclusion: Examining the barriers to digital inclusion, such as the gender gap, accessibility challenges, and strategies for bridging the digital divide in underserved communities.
5. Human Rights and Freedoms: Analyzing the impact of internet policies on human rights, freedom of expression, privacy, and exploring ways to ensure a rights-respecting digital environment.
6. Data Governance and Trust: Delving into the legal frameworks, data protection regulations, and data sovereignty issues that govern data use and promote trust in the digital ecosystem.
7. Universal Access and Meaningful Connectivity: Addressing the challenges of providing affordable and reliable internet access to all individuals and communities across Africa, with a focus on expanding digital literacy and enhancing connectivity infrastructure.

Please ensure that your session proposal includes a clear objective, a detailed session format, and a list of intended outcomes. Additionally, outline the target audience, expected speakers, and any innovative approaches or interactive elements that will make your session engaging and participatory.

Session Organizers Note:

Please note that for each session, the majority of the speakers should be onsite to ensure active participation and foster effective discussions with both virtual and physical attendees. While some virtual speakers can be accommodated, it is encouraged to prioritize onsite speakers for enhanced engagement.

Important Dates:

• Call for session proposals opens: 12th June 2023
• Call for session proposals closes: 07 July 2023
• Acceptance notifications: 4th August 2023
• AfIGF 2023: 19th – 21 September 2023

Submission Process:

Please submit your session proposal via email to www.sessionize.com/afigf

Note: The deadline for session proposal submissions is 07 July 2023. Late submissions will not be accepted.

We encourage stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and sectors to come forward and contribute their expertise to AfIGF 2023. Together, we can shape the future of digital governance in Africa and build an inclusive, safe, and trusted digital environment for all.

If you have any inquiries or require further information, please contact the secreteriat at info@afigf.africa