Africa

Advancing digital identity in Africa while safeguarding sovereignty

A pivotal discussion on digital identity and sovereignty in developing countries unfolded at the Internet Governance Forum 2025 in Norway.

The session, co-hosted by CityHub and AFICTA (Africa ICT Alliance), brought together experts from Africa, Asia, and Europe to explore how digital identity systems can foster inclusion, support cross-border services, and remain anchored in national sovereignty.

Speakers emphasised that digital identity is foundational for bridging the digital divide and fostering economic development. Dr Jimson Olufuye, Chair of AFICTA, stressed the existential nature of identity in the digital age, noting, ‘If you cannot identify anybody, it means the person does not exist.’ He linked identity inclusion directly to the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) action lines and the Global Digital Compact goals.

IGF

Several national examples were presented. From Nigeria, Abisoye Coker-Adusote, Director General of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), shared how the country’s National Identification Number (NIN) has been integrated into banking, education, telecoms, and census services. ‘We’ve linked NINs from birth to ensure lifelong digital access,’ she noted, adding that biometric verification now underpins school enrolments, student loans, and credit programmes.

Representing Benin, Dr Kossi Amessinou highlighted the country’s ‘It’s Me’ card, a digital ID facilitating visa-free travel within ECOWAS. He underscored the importance of data localisation, asserting, ‘Data centres should be located within Africa to maintain sovereignty.’

Technical insights came from Debora Comparin, co-founder of CityHub, and Naohiro Fujie, Chair of the OpenID Foundation Japan. Comparison called for preserving the privacy characteristics of physical documents in digital forms and stressed the need for legal harmonisation to build trust across borders.

No digital identity system can work without mutual trust and clarity on issuance procedures,’ she said. Fujie shared Japan’s experience transitioning to digital credentials, including the country’s recent rollout of national ID cards via Apple Wallet, noting that domestic standards should evolve with global interoperability in mind.

Tor Alvik, from Norway’s Digitisation Agency, explained how cross-border digital identity remains a challenge even among closely aligned Nordic countries. ‘The linkage of a person’s identity between two systems is one of the hardest problems,’ he admitted, describing Norway’s regional interoperability efforts through the EU’s eIDAS framework.

Panelists agreed on key themes: digital identities must be secure, inclusive, and flexible to accommodate countries at varying digital readiness levels. They also advocated for federated data systems that protect sovereignty while enabling cooperation. Dr Olufuye proposed forming regional working groups to assess interoperability frameworks and track progress between IGF sessions.

As a forward step, several pilot programmes were proposed—pairing countries like Nigeria with neighbours Cameroon or Niger—to test cross-border digital ID systems. These initiatives, supported by tools and frameworks from CityHub, aim to lay the groundwork for a truly interoperable digital identity landscape across Africa and beyond.

Track all key moments from the Internet Governance Forum 2025 on our dedicated IGF page.

AU Open Forum at IGF 2025 highlights urgent need for action on Africa’s digital future

At the 2025 Internet Governance Forum in Lillestrøm, Norway, the African Union’s Open Forum served as a critical platform for African stakeholders to assess the state of digital governance across the continent. The forum featured updates from the African Union Commission, the UN Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), and voices from governments, civil society, youth, and the private sector.

The tone was constructive yet urgent, with leaders stressing the need to move from declarations to implementation on long-standing issues like digital inclusion, infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Dr Maktar Sek of UNECA highlighted key challenges slowing Africa’s digital transformation, including policy fragmentation, low internet connectivity (just 38% continent-wide), and high service costs.

He outlined several initiatives underway, such as a continent-wide ICT tax calculator, a database of over 2,000 AI innovations, and digital ID support for countries like Ethiopia and Mozambique. However, he also stressed that infrastructure gaps—especially energy deficits—continue to obstruct progress, along with the fragmentation of digital payment systems and regulatory misalignment that hinders cross-border cooperation.

The Dar es Salaam Declaration from the recent African IGF in Tanzania was a focal point, outlining nine major challenges ranging from infrastructure and affordability to cybersecurity and localised content. Despite widespread consensus on the problems, only 17 African countries have ratified the vital Malabo Convention on cybersecurity, a statistic met with frustration.

Calls were made to establish a dedicated committee to investigate ratification barriers and to draft model laws that address current digital threats more effectively. Participants repeatedly emphasised the importance of sustainable funding, capacity development, and meaningful youth engagement.

Several speakers challenged the habitual cycle of issuing new recommendations without follow-through. Others underscored the need to empower local innovation and harmonise national policies to support a pan-African digital market.

As the session concluded, calls grew louder for stronger institutional backing for the African IGF Secretariat and a transition toward more binding resolutions—an evolution participants agreed is essential for Africa’s digital aspirations to become reality.

Track all key moments from the Internet Governance Forum 2025 on our dedicated IGF page.

Africa reflects on 20 years of WSIS at IGF 2025

At the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2025, a high-level session brought together African government officials, private sector leaders, civil society advocates, and international experts to reflect on two decades of the continent’s engagement in the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process. Moderated by Mactar Seck of the UN Economic Commission for Africa, the WSIS+20 Africa review highlighted both remarkable progress and ongoing challenges in digital transformation.

Seck opened the discussion with a snapshot of Africa’s connectivity leap from 2.6% in 2005 to 38% today. Yet, he warned, ‘Cybersecurity costs Africa 10% of its GDP,’ underscoring the urgency of coordinated investment and inclusion. Emphasising multi-stakeholder collaboration, he called for ‘inclusive policy-making across government, private sector, academia and civil society,’ aligned with frameworks such as the AU Digital Strategy and the Global Digital Compact.

Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary detailed the country’s 10-year National Digital Strategic Framework, boasting 92% 3G and 91% 4G coverage and regional infrastructure links. Meanwhile, Benin’s Hon. Adjara presented the Cotonou Declaration and proposed an African Digital Performance Index to monitor broadband, skills, cybersecurity, and inclusion. From the private sector, Jimson Odufuye called for ‘annual WSIS reviews at national level’ and closer alignment with Sustainable Development Goals, stating, “If we cannot measure progress, we cannot reach the SDGs.”

Gender advocate Baratang Pil called for a revision of WSIS action lines to include mandatory gender audits and demanded that ‘30% of national AI and DPI funding go to women-led tech firms.’ Youth representative Louvo Gray stressed the need for $100 billion to close the continent’s digital divide, reminding participants that by 2050, 42% of the world’s youth will be African. Philippe Roux of the UN Emerging Technology Office urged policymakers to focus on implementation over renegotiation: ‘People are not connected because it costs too much — we must address the demand side.’

The panel concluded with a call for enhanced continental cooperation and practical action. As Seck summarised, ‘Africa has the youth, knowledge, and opportunity to lead in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. We must make sure digital inclusion is not a slogan — it must be a shared commitment.’

Track all key moments from the Internet Governance Forum 2025 on our dedicated IGF page.

EU funds African science with €500 million in new initiative

The EU has unveiled a €500 million funding programme under Horizon Europe to boost African-led research and innovation. A total of 24 funding calls are organised around five thematic areas.

Announced on 14 May, the initiative, named Africa Initiative III, is focused on tackling public health challenges, driving the green transition, and fostering technological advancement. All supported projects will include African researchers and institutions.

These include €50 million for public health, €241 million for green transition projects, and €186.5 million for innovation and technology. Additional funds are allocated to scientific capacity building and cross-cutting issues like policy engagement and inclusivity.

Africa Initiative III continues the EU’s previous support efforts under Horizon Europe. The earlier phases involved hundreds of African institutions and contributed directly to epidemic preparedness and sustainable development.

Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!

Google unveils AI tool to boost African businesses

Google has announced the beta launch of AI Max for Search Campaigns, a new tool aimed at helping local businesses, including those across Africa, reach more customers through smarter advertising.

The feature, which builds on Google’s Gemini AI models, enhances how businesses appear in search results, even when users type unexpected or highly specific queries.

As African economies continue to embrace digital transformation, AI Max offers vital support to small and medium-sized enterprises. The tool intelligently matches search terms, customises ad text in real time, and expands URL targeting to guide users to the most relevant content.

Designed to reduce the burden on entrepreneurs managing multiple responsibilities, the tool is seen as a cost-effective way to attract higher-intent customers with minimal effort.

This initiative complements Google’s ongoing support for African businesses, including training schemes like Hustle Academy. With AI Max, entrepreneurs now have access to technology that not only adapts to their needs but also improves their visibility in an increasingly competitive digital market.

Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot! 

Google invites African AI startups to join 2025 accelerator

Google has opened applications for its 2025 Startups Accelerator Africa programme, aiming to support early-stage African companies leveraging AI to solve critical local challenges.

The three-month initiative is open to Seed to Series A startups with a live product, at least one founder of African descent, and a strong focus on responsible AI development.

Successful applicants will receive tailored technical mentorship, up to $350,000 in Google Cloud credits, and access to a global network of investors and partners.

Participants will also benefit from workshops covering technology, strategy, leadership, and AI implementation.

Google emphasised that empowering local innovators is key to unlocking the potential of AI across the continent.

Since 2018, the programme has backed 140 startups from 17 countries, helping them raise over $300 million and create more than 3,000 jobs.

Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!

China’s growing space influence in Africa

A state-of-the-art space lab on the outskirts of Cairo, touted as Africa’s first satellite production facility, has been built with substantial Chinese involvement. While the lab was designed to assemble homegrown Egyptian satellites, much of the technology, equipment, and expertise comes from China. The first satellite produced at the facility was largely assembled in China and launched from there in December 2023. The plant is part of a broader Chinese effort to strengthen its space presence across Africa, as Beijing seeks to enhance its global surveillance capabilities and assert itself as a dominant space power.

Egypt’s satellite facility is just one element of China’s growing influence in Africa’s space sector. Over the past two years, China has gifted Egypt with various space technologies, including advanced telescopes and Earth observation satellites. However, these technologies come with strings attached, as China maintains a long-term presence in the facilities it builds and gains access to data collected by its satellites. This partnership is a part of China’s broader strategy to establish space alliances in Africa, aiming to secure surveillance data and boost its military capabilities.

China’s efforts to expand its space infrastructure on the continent are drawing attention from global powers. While Egypt and other African nations benefit from Chinese investments, there are concerns about Beijing’s increasing influence and its ability to collect sensitive data through these space projects. The US has voiced concerns over the potential military applications of China’s space technology in Africa, as Beijing builds ground stations and enhances its surveillance capabilities. Despite these concerns, African countries, including Egypt, remain neutral, viewing space collaborations as opportunities for scientific and technological advancement.

The US has struggled to match China’s strategic approach in Africa, with many African nations now seeking technology partnerships that suit their immediate needs. This shift underscores the growing importance of space technology in geopolitics, as countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, and Senegal enter into agreements with China that could shape the future of space exploration and military capabilities. As the global space race intensifies, China’s growing influence in Africa may continue to challenge the US and other Western powers in their efforts to maintain dominance in space exploration.

For more information on these topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Nigeria partners with WIOCC on $10 million fibre-to-home internet project for economic growth

The Nigerian Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy signed a $10 million MoU with WIOCC to launch fibre-to-home internet connectivity targeting three million homes in the first phase of the project with plans to expand as the rollout progresses.

The government, led by Dr Bosun Tijani, emphasises the importance of digital technology in driving productivity and economic growth, with a goal of building a $1 trillion economy. However, balancing sustainable investment by telecom providers with affordable services for citizens remains a challenge, as highlighted by the recent approval of a tariff hike.

Currently, most Nigerians rely on mobile internet, which lacks the speed and reliability of true high-speed broadband. The fibre-to-home project seeks to address this gap, creating a more connected environment that supports individuals, businesses, and institutions. By improving internet infrastructure nationwide, the initiative aims to foster a more inclusive digital economy, ensuring that more Nigerians benefit from the opportunities offered by high-speed internet.

Why does it matter?

In the long term, the project is designed to scale up, with additional capital being raised and invested to connect more people across Nigeria. As the initiative evolves, it will re-evaluate its targets and expand its reach, ensuring that high-speed broadband becomes accessible to a larger portion of the population.

That effort aligns with the government’s vision of making connectivity a cornerstone of economic development, supporting small businesses and enabling Nigerians to stay connected both at home and on the go. Through this partnership, Nigeria is taking a critical step toward transforming its digital landscape and achieving its economic goals.

Kenya prepares to create a framework for regulating a fair crypto market

Kenya is taking decisive steps to regulate cryptocurrencies as the government shifts its stance from cautious warnings to a more structured approach. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has confirmed plans to introduce a legal and regulatory framework aimed at fostering a fair and stable crypto market. This move is outlined in the ‘National Policy on Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service Providers,’ a draft proposal open for public feedback until 24 January.

The policy proposes comprehensive regulations for virtual assets, addressing key concerns such as money laundering, terrorism financing, and consumer protection. It aims to establish clear standards and procedures to govern virtual asset service providers, setting Kenya on a path similar to other African nations like South Africa and Nigeria, which have embraced crypto regulation.

Kenya’s cautious journey with cryptocurrencies dates back to a 2015 warning by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), highlighting risks like fraud and lack of legal safeguards. However, a significant shift occurred in September 2023 when the country completed an assessment of money laundering risks tied to virtual assets. With stablecoins accounting for nearly half of the region’s transaction volume, Kenya’s proactive regulatory approach could solidify its role as a leader in sub-Saharan Africa’s crypto adoption landscape.

African parliamentarians discuss digital transformation at IGF 2024

A networking session at IGF 2024 in Riyadh examined the vital role of African parliamentarians in shaping inclusive digital policies. Discussions revolved around creating legislation that keeps pace with technological evolution, fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration, and addressing Africa’s unique challenges in the digital age.

Participants called for stronger engagement between parliamentarians, technologists, and scientists to craft practical and forward-looking digital frameworks.

Speakers, including Catherine Mumma from Kenya and Millennium Anthony from Tanzania, underscored the need to improve digital infrastructure and internet access, particularly in rural regions. Challenges such as expensive data costs, insufficient digital skills, and a lack of dedicated parliamentary committees for science and technology were highlighted. Susan Dossi from Malawi and Daniel Molokele from Zimbabwe stressed the importance of public participation in the legislative process to ensure policies reflect citizens’ needs.

The session addressed the borderless nature of the internet and the importance of regional and global collaboration to tackle cybercrime and cross-border governance issues. Ayoban Ngao from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Lekhotsa Mafatle from Lesotho emphasised the need to update educational curricula to align with digital needs while investing in digital skills and infrastructure. Ke Gong from China contributed insights on leveraging international best practices to guide Africa’s digital transformation.

Concluding discussions focused on the critical role of parliamentarians in driving digital growth through informed policymaking. Participants advocated for greater cooperation across sectors to ensure Africa capitalises on digital opportunities while addressing its unique challenges. The session underscored a collaborative approach as key to fostering inclusive digital development across the continent.

All transcripts from the Internet Governance Forum sessions can be found on dig.watch.