Vice President calls for stronger African participation in global internet governance
Story by: Regina Bless
Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang has called on African countries to strengthen their capacity to influence global digital standards and develop digital systems that reflect the continent’s needs and realities.
She made the call while delivering an address at the opening of the 15th Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) in Accra.
In her remarks, the Vice President reflected on the contribution of the late former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, to the establishment and development of the global Internet Governance Forum.
She highlighted his belief that decisions concerning the internet should involve governments, businesses, civil society organisations, technical experts and the wider public.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang noted that although the internet has transformed commerce, education, communication and access to information, emerging technologies require African countries to strengthen their expertise, institutions and regulatory safeguards.
She cited Ghana’s One Million Coders Programme and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, launched by President John Dramani Mahama, as key initiatives aimed at advancing digital skills, employment, entrepreneurship and innovation.
According to her, the initiatives are expected to create opportunities, particularly for young people and small businesses, to participate in the growing digital economy.
The Vice President also stressed the importance of protecting children and young people online, strengthening cybersecurity and improving data governance to ensure that technological advancement does not undermine fundamental rights and freedoms.
She called for active participation from policymakers, Parliament, the Judiciary, industry players and citizens in addressing the challenges associated with digital transformation.
Professor Opoku-Agyemang encouraged participants at the forum to embrace diverse perspectives and engage constructively in discussions that would shape Africa’s digital future.
She expressed hope that the deliberations would contribute to building a safer, more inclusive and accessible digital environment across the continent.