The MRU IGF, taking place in Freetown, Sierra Leone, on 6-10 October 2024, will focus on critical themes such as internet governance, digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and data protection. PIN’s participation is particularly relevant as the forum will host sessions on issues closely aligned with their mission, such as digital inclusion, privacy, and the role of civil society in shaping internet policies.

PIN’s support reflects their broader mission to empower marginalized youth and communities through digital inclusion and advocacy for a positive rights-based approach to internet governance. Their presence at the MRU IGF marks a significant milestone for both organizations and signals the start of what promises to be a fruitful collaboration toward the growth and protection of digital rights in West Africa. In an interview MRU IGF Coordinator Peterking Quaye said “We are thrilled to have Paradigm Initiative join us as one of the key stakeholders in this first-ever MRU IGF event. PIN’s experience and expertise in promoting digital rights, coupled with their technical and financial backing, will undoubtedly add great value to our discussions and outcomes. Their leadership in this space has been nothing short of remarkable, and we are excited to build on this partnership for future initiatives.”

The collaboration between MRU IGF and Paradigm Initiative signifies the beginning of a concerted effort to tackle the most pressing digital rights issues in the region. With Paradigm Initiative’s vast experience and commitment to building a rights-respecting digital future, the MRU IGF will serve as a platform to amplify these efforts, bringing together key stakeholders, including governments, private sector actors, and civil society, to chart a sustainable and inclusive path forward.

Since its founding, Paradigm Initiative has been at the forefront of championing digital rights and freedoms across Africa. Their work has included advocacy for stronger internet policies, providing digital skills to underserved communities, and ensuring that the internet remains open, inclusive, and accessible to all. Their involvement in the MRU IGF aligns with their ongoing efforts to foster inclusive digital spaces and promote media literacy, which are particularly critical for the development of the digital economy in the Mano River Union countries. As the region continues to face challenges related to digital literacy, misinformation, and governance, the strategic partnership between MRU IGF and Paradigm Initiative will help equip policymakers, civil society organizations, and individuals with the tools needed to navigate and shape the evolving digital landscape. PIN’s role in the forum will not only enrich the discussions but also contribute to concrete outcomes that will benefit the MRU region for years to come.

Peterking Quaye further explained that “As we look to the future, we envision a lasting partnership with Paradigm Initiative, not only for this event but for the long-term growth of the digital rights ecosystem in West Africa. Their contributions, particularly in shaping media narratives and digital literacy programs, will help set the tone for future digital governance efforts in the Mano River Union countries.”

The support of organizations like Paradigm Initiative highlights the critical need for collaboration in addressing the challenges and opportunities posed by the digital age. The MRU IGF looks forward to a successful event with PIN playing a central role, and to future endeavors where the vision of an inclusive and rights-based digital environment becomes a reality for all. As we prepare for the inaugural edition of the MRU IGF, the involvement of Paradigm Initiative stands as a testament to the importance of regional collaboration in the digital rights space. We aim to foster a stronger, more resilient digital future that protects rights, empowers communities, and supports sustainable development.

The MRU region has long been underserved in terms of digital infrastructure, literacy, and governance, which has contributed to its marginalization in the global digital conversation. The upcoming forum aims to bridge these gaps by bringing together key stakeholders, including governments, civil society, private sector actors, and international partners, to explore solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of the MRU countries.

The President of the ISOC Sierra Leone Chapter, Ajara Bomah, emphasized the importance of this event in giving a voice to the underrepresented communities in the MRU region—Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire. In a recent chat, she highlighted how this forum will serve as a platform to address the unique digital challenges faced by these countries.

“The MRU IGF is a critical opportunity for our region to come together and present a unified voice on the digital challenges we face. Being one of the most underserved communities in West Africa, it is vital that we collaborate to present, promote, and project the unique issues of the MRU countries. The Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter is proud to lead the local implementation of this important forum, working closely with the Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Technology. This event will not only shine a light on the digital divide but also empower our communities to find solutions through regional collaboration.”

The selection of Sierra Leone as the host country for the inaugural MRU IGF is symbolic of the country’s growing role in regional digital governance. Peterking Quaye, Coordinator of the MRU IGF, spoke about the significance of hosting the event in Freetown and the impact it will have on the entire Mano River Union region. “The decision to host the MRU IGF in Sierra Leone reflects the country’s commitment to advancing digital governance and fostering regional cooperation. This event is not just about highlighting the challenges; it’s about crafting tailored solutions that will benefit the entire MRU region. By collaborating with partners like the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter and the Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Technology, we are ensuring that the voices of our region are heard, and that our unique issues are addressed on a global stage. The MRU IGF will lay the foundation for stronger collaboration across the MRU countries, paving the way for a more inclusive and resilient digital future.”

The event will focus on several key issues affecting the region, including digital infrastructure, internet access, cybersecurity, data protection, and media literacy. By providing a platform for dialogue and knowledge-sharing, the MRU IGF aims to position the MRU region as an active participant in global digital governance discussions, ensuring that the digital future of these countries is both inclusive and forward-thinking. As the host country, Sierra Leone is uniquely positioned to drive the digital agenda for the MRU region. The Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Technology has been instrumental in advancing digital policies aimed at bridging the gap between underserved communities and the rest of the world. Hosting the MRU IGF further solidifies Sierra Leone’s leadership in this space and its role as a key player in regional digital governance efforts.

The collaboration between the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter, the Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Technology, and the MRU IGF Secretariat demonstrates a shared vision of fostering regional cooperation to address the most pressing digital challenges. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, the MRU IGF will not only amplify the concerns of underserved communities but also create pathways for sustainable digital development across the MRU region.

As the MRU IGF 2024 approaches, the strong partnership between local and regional stakeholders promises to yield impactful outcomes that will shape the future of digital governance in West Africa.

The MRU IGF 2024 is more than just an event—it is a movement to elevate the voices of the Mano River Union countries in the global digital governance space. With the leadership of the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter, the Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Technology support, and the collaboration of regional and international partners, this forum marks the beginning of a new era for digital rights, access, and governance in West Africa. The event will serve as a platform to promote the unique challenges of the MRU region and catalyze action to ensure a more inclusive digital future for all.

The upcoming Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) in Freetown, Sierra Leone, from October 6-10, 2024, promises to be a groundbreaking event that will shape the digital future of the region. With C Squared headlining the forum and hosting a special session, the MRU IGF is set to drive meaningful discussions on digital infrastructure, internet governance, and connectivity across the MRU region, which comprises Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire.
As we anticipate this transformative gathering, CSquared’s involvement is a testament to the forum’s relevance in addressing the region’s digital challenges. This article highlights why the MRU IGF is poised to innovate, inspire, and appeal to key policy-makers, stakeholders, and doubters alike. CSquared’s special session on “Building Digital Infrastructure for Inclusive Connectivity” will shine a spotlight on the importance of open-access internet infrastructure in driving socio-economic transformation. As Africa’s leading digital infrastructure provider, CSquared has been a pioneer in bringing affordable, high-speed internet to underserved regions, and its presence at the MRU IGF underscores the importance of robust infrastructure for the future of the digital economy.
The MRU IGF 2024 will not just be a forum for discussions—it will be a launchpad for innovation. The event will feature interactive workshops, panels, and technical sessions that focus on practical solutions for building resilient, inclusive, and secure digital ecosystems in the Mano River Union region. For policy-makers in the MRU region, this event is a catalyst for digital transformation. In today’s world, where the internet is an essential component of economic growth, digital literacy, and social inclusion, the importance of events like the MRU IGF cannot be overstated.
The presence of CSquared, alongside government officials, civil society representatives, private sector leaders, and international stakeholders, creates a forum where policy-makers can engage directly with the very companies and institutions that are shaping the digital landscape of the region. CSquared’s leadership in digital infrastructure development, coupled with strategic partnerships with local and international stakeholders, makes it clear that the MRU region is poised for digital success. This is not just an event for the tech-savvy; it is a forum for anyone who believes in the power of connectivity to change lives, foster innovation, and create opportunities for future generations.
The forum is also supported by the Internet Society Sierra Leone Chapter and other local stakeholders. The Internet Society’s involvement brings added expertise in advocating for Internet freedom, digital literacy, and cybersecurity, making the MRU IGF a comprehensive event where policy meets innovation. For those who doubt the region’s potential to embrace the digital revolution, the MRU IGF is the definitive answer. The event will not only showcase the region’s progress but also serve as a platform for collaboration. In collaboration with the host country’s Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation of Sierra Leone for their unwavering support in hosting this year’s MRU IGF. Under their leadership, Sierra Leone is setting a bold example for the rest of the region on how to leverage digital technologies for development. The focal ministry’s commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration has made it possible for this event to take place in Freetown, and we look forward to working closely with them to ensure the success of this forum.
As the MRU IGF continues to gain recognition, CSquared’s involvement is an undeniable boost to the forum’s credibility and reach. CSquared’s innovative approach to building scalable, open-access fiber networks is key to bridging the digital divide, and their participation in this forum reflects their commitment to the long-term growth and prosperity of the MRU region.
We deeply appreciate CSquared for accepting the invitation to participate in the maiden edition of this mega event in Sierra Leone. Their support will inspire not only discussions but also real-world solutions that will improve connectivity, digital literacy, and internet access in the region. We are proud to partner with an organization that shares our vision for an inclusive, connected future for all MRU countries. As the MRU IGF aligns with the United Nations IGF as one of the regional NRIs, this forum will serve as an essential step toward developing the under-represented NRIs in the MRU region. With the support of global entities like CSquared, the Internet Society, and others, this event is sure to make waves not only in West Africa but also across the globe.
The event’s outcomes will feed into the global Internet Governance Forum, and we encourage stakeholders to attend and participate actively in shaping the future of the Internet in the MRU region. The potential for digital transformation in this part of Africa is enormous, and the MRU IGF is a key event to unlock that potential. As we approach October 6-10, 2024, we urge all stakeholders—governments, businesses, civil society, and international partners—to join us in Freetown, Sierra Leone, for this historic event. Together, we can create a resilient digital ecosystem for the MRU region that empowers everyone to participate in the digital economy. We look forward to seeing you there. The future of the internet in the MRU region starts now—and with CSquared, the Ministry of Communication, Technology, and Innovation, and our dedicated partners, it will be a future filled with opportunity, innovation, and progress.

The selection of Sierra Leone as the host country underscores its commitment to advancing digital innovation and fostering inclusive digital governance within the Mano River Union region. The MRU IGF serves as a platform for stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and cooperation on internet governance issues.

“We are excited to announce Sierra Leone as the host country for the maiden edition of the MRU IGF,” said Peterking Quaye, Regional Coordinator of the MRU IGF Secretariat. “Sierra Leone’s dedication to promoting digital inclusion and innovation makes it an ideal location for this important event. We are confident that Sierra Leone will provide a conducive environment for productive discussions and collaboration among stakeholders.”

The hosting process for the MRU IGF has commenced, with the establishment of a Local Organizing Committee (LOC) to oversee the planning and execution of the event. The LOC will work closely with government agencies, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector to ensure the success of the forum.

“We are committed to hosting a successful and impactful MRU IGF,” said Honorable Minister Salma Bah. “Sierra Leone looks forward to welcoming stakeholders from across the region to engage in discussions on internet governance issues and explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation.”

The MRU IGF will address a wide range of topics, including digital inclusion, cybersecurity, data protection, and regulatory frameworks for the digital economy. The forum aims to foster collaboration and partnerships to address the unique internet governance challenges facing the Mano River Union region.

For more information about the MRU IGF and updates on the upcoming event in Sierra Leone, please visit [www.mrufigf.org ].

Contact Information for Inquiries
Communication & Media Unit
MRU IGF Secretariat

|info@mruigf.org

As a platform dedicated to addressing critical issues related to internet governance and digital technology, the MRU IGF emphasizes the fundamental importance of uninterrupted internet access for social, economic, and political development. The internet serves as a lifeline for businesses, governments, educational institutions, and individuals, facilitating communication, commerce, education, and access to essential services. The disruption of internet service in the MRU region has had far-reaching consequences, leading to significant disruptions in business operations, financial transactions, e-commerce activities, and access to critical information and services. This outage has not only caused inconvenience but has also resulted in substantial financial losses for businesses and individuals alike.

The MRU IGF acknowledges the restoration of internet services following the widespread disruption experienced in the MRU region. While we appreciate the efforts made to address the issue promptly, it is crucial to recognize the need for sustainable measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. In light of this, the MRU IGF calls upon the national regulators and other allied ministries to take proactive steps to ensure the resilience of our digital infrastructure. This includes implementing robust monitoring mechanisms to detect and address potential vulnerabilities, investing in redundancy and backup systems to mitigate the impact of future disruptions, and collaborating closely with mobile network operators and other stakeholders to develop comprehensive contingency plans.

It is essential that they work closely with operators to establish clear protocols for incident response and communication to minimize disruption and ensure timely restoration of services. By taking proactive measures to enhance the resilience of our digital infrastructure, we can better safeguard the continuity of internet connectivity and ensure that citizens have access to the essential services and information they rely on in an increasingly interconnected world.

Peterking Quaye, Regional Convener of the MRU IGF, underscores the urgent need for swift action by regulators and allied ministries in the MRU region to address the root causes of these internet disruptions and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. Quaye emphasizes, “Access to a reliable and resilient internet infrastructure is crucial for driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and promoting digital inclusion in the MRU region. We call upon regulators and policymakers to prioritize the stability and security of internet connectivity to ensure the uninterrupted flow of information and services to citizens.”

The MRU IGF remains committed to advocating for policies and initiatives that promote universal access to affordable and reliable internet services in the Mano River Union countries. Through collaborative efforts with governments, regulatory bodies, private sector stakeholders, civil society organizations, and the technical community, the MRU IGF aims to address the challenges facing the digital ecosystem and harness the transformative power of the internet for the benefit of all citizens in the region.