ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) has partnered with Smart Africa to enhance internet governance capacity development across Africa. Smart Africa, a coalition of African countries, international organizations, and global private sector players, is focused on advancing Africa’s digital agenda. This collaboration aims to drive digital transformation by leveraging the strengths and resources of both organizations.
The partnership focuses on fostering a stable, secure, and inclusive internet across the African continent, setting the stage for long-term collaboration. By combining their expertise, ICANN and Smart Africa are laying the groundwork for a future where African stakeholders are better equipped to shape the digital landscape. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of both organizations to support Africa’s growing digital infrastructure.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), ICANN and Smart Africa will work together to organize capacity development events and training workshops. These initiatives aim to empower African stakeholders with the necessary skills and knowledge to participate effectively in Internet governance. The joint efforts will help strengthen Africa’s voice in global digital discussions and governance decisions.
Community outreach and engagement activities will also be a cornerstone of the partnership. These activities are designed to raise awareness on key issues related to Internet governance, where the missions of ICANN and Smart Africa align. The organizations will focus on increasing African participation in regional Internet governance discussions, ensuring the continent’s representation and influence in shaping global internet policies.
Sally Costerton, Interim President and CEO of ICANN, highlighted that this collaboration exemplifies ICANN’s commitment to providing communities with the resources and knowledge needed to shape their digital future. The partnership seeks to build a stronger, more secure Internet infrastructure that empowers African communities and drives economic growth across the continent.
Lacina Koné, CEO of Smart Africa, emphasized that this partnership marks a strategic step in strengthening Africa’s internet governance capabilities. By equipping African stakeholders with the necessary knowledge and resources, both organizations are contributing to the realization of a more secure, stable, and inclusive digital future for Africa.
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