The Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) Secretariat is pleased to announce the introduction of two landmark initiatives for the 3rd Annual Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF 2026)—the MRU Digital Governance Awards and the MRU Digital Innovation & Exhibition Village. Both initiatives will form part of the inaugural MRU Digital Governance Week 2026, scheduled to take place in Monrovia, Liberia, under the theme:“Building an Inclusive, Secure and Resilient Digital Future for the Mano River Union Region.”

These new initiatives reflect the Secretariat’s commitment to transforming the MRU IGF from a regional policy dialogue into a comprehensive platform that recognizes excellence, showcases innovation, strengthens partnerships, and accelerates digital transformation across the Mano River Union region. The MRU Digital Governance Awards will recognize outstanding individuals, institutions, organizations, and initiatives that have made significant contributions to digital transformation, Internet governance, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital inclusion, innovation, youth empowerment, and regional cooperation. As the region’s premier digital governance recognition programme, the Awards aim to celebrate leadership, inspire innovation, and promote excellence across Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire.

To ensure transparency, credibility, and regional ownership, the Secretariat will launch an Open Call for Nominations, inviting governments, parliamentarians, regulators, academic institutions, civil society organizations, private sector companies, development partners, and the public to nominate deserving candidates. All nominations will be reviewed by an independent Awards Selection Committee, with recipients announced during the MRU IGF 2026 Awards Ceremony. In addition, the Secretariat is introducing the MRU Digital Innovation & Exhibition Village, a dynamic exhibition platform that will showcase digital innovations, public digital services, research, emerging technologies, and entrepreneurial solutions from across the Mano River Union region and beyond. The Exhibition Village will provide an opportunity for government institutions, regulators, telecommunications operators, technology companies, startups, universities, innovation hubs, development partners, and civil society organizations to demonstrate their work, engage with participants, and build strategic partnerships.

For the inaugural edition, selected exhibitors will be provided exhibition space at no cost, reinforcing the Secretariat’s commitment to promoting innovation, collaboration, and regional participation. Organizations will be selected through an Open Call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) based on relevance, innovation, impact, and alignment with the Forum’s theme. Speaking on the introduction of these initiatives, Peterking Quaye, Regional Coordinator and Convener of the Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum, stated: “The introduction of the MRU Digital Governance Awards and the Digital Innovation & Exhibition Village marks an important milestone in the evolution of the MRU IGF. These initiatives will move the Forum beyond dialogue by recognizing excellence, showcasing practical solutions, and creating lasting opportunities for collaboration. Our goal is to celebrate those driving digital transformation while providing a platform where innovators, policymakers, investors, and development partners can connect and shape the digital future of the Mano River Union region.”

The Secretariat believes these initiatives will enhance Liberia’s role as a regional hub for digital governance, strengthen partnerships, encourage investment, and contribute to a more inclusive and resilient digital ecosystem. They also complement the broader objectives of the Africa Internet Governance Forum (Africa IGF) and the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (UN IGF) by promoting multistakeholder engagement, knowledge sharing, and sustainable digital development.

The MRU IGF Secretariat invites governments, international organizations, development partners, technology companies, universities, innovation hubs, civil society organizations, youth networks, and other interested stakeholders to participate as exhibitors, nominators, sponsors, or strategic partners.

Organizations and institutions interested in supporting or participating in the MRU Digital Governance Awards or the MRU Digital Innovation & Exhibition Village are encouraged to contact the Secretariat for partnership opportunities.

Key Dates

The Secretariat looks forward to working with partners across the Mano River Union region and beyond to deliver a successful MRU Digital Governance Week 2026 and to celebrate the people, ideas, and innovations shaping the region’s digital future.

Empowering the Next Generation of Digital Governance Leaders for the Mano River Union Region

Monrovia, Liberia – The Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) Secretariat is pleased to officially announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Mano River Union School on Internet Governance and Emerging Technologies (MRU SIG), the region’s premier capacity-building programme dedicated to developing future leaders in Internet Governance, digital policy, and emerging technologies.

The inaugural edition of MRU SIG marks a significant milestone in strengthening digital governance capacity within the Mano River Union region. The School has been established to equip participants with the knowledge, practical skills, and leadership competencies needed to actively contribute to national, regional, continental, and global Internet Governance and digital policy processes.The programme will provide an immersive learning experience through expert-led sessions, policy simulations, multistakeholder dialogue, mentorship, and collaborative learning, bringing together participants from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire while welcoming a limited number of participants from across Africa.

The MRU IGF Secretariat encourages applications from young professionals, policymakers, regulators, civil society organizations, academia, the technical community, private sector representatives, media professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and students who are passionate about shaping the future of the Internet and digital transformation. Commenting on the launch of the application process, the MRU IGF Secretariat stated, “The official opening of applications for the inaugural Mano River Union School on Internet Governance and Emerging Technologies represents an important investment in the future of our region. Building resilient, inclusive, and people-centered digital societies requires knowledgeable leaders who understand the complexities of Internet Governance and emerging technologies. MRU SIG has been established to nurture that new generation of leaders, foster regional cooperation, and strengthen meaningful participation from the Mano River Union region in African and global digital policy discussions.”

The Secretariat further emphasized that MRU SIG is designed to become a long-term regional centre of excellence for Internet Governance education and leadership development. “We are committed to delivering a world-class learning experience that reflects international best practices while addressing the unique opportunities and challenges facing our region. Through collaboration with governments, academia, civil society, the technical community, industry, and development partners, MRU SIG will help prepare future digital leaders capable of driving inclusive digital transformation across the Mano River Union and beyond.”

The MRU IGF Secretariat also called upon international organizations, development agencies, academic institutions, technical organizations, foundations, the private sector, and regional partners to support this landmark initiative through strategic collaboration, technical expertise, faculty participation, mentorship, research partnerships, and sponsorship opportunities.“Developing the next generation of digital governance leaders is a shared responsibility. We invite organizations and institutions that share our vision for an open, secure, inclusive, and resilient Internet to partner with us in making the inaugural MRU SIG a lasting success. Together, we can strengthen regional capacity, promote innovation, and empower leaders who will shape the digital future of the Mano River Union region.”The 2026 MRU SIG will adopt a hybrid learning model comprising a mandatory virtual learning phase, a three-day residential School in Monrovia, Liberia, and a structured alumni and mentorship programme to promote continuous learning, regional collaboration, and long-term engagement.

Admission to MRU SIG is competitive and merit-based, with participants selected based on their demonstrated interest in Internet Governance, leadership potential, commitment to community impact, and ability to contribute to digital policy development within their respective countries and communities.

The MRU IGF Secretariat invites all eligible applicants to submit their applications through the official MRU SIG registration portal and become part of a growing network of future digital leaders committed to advancing an inclusive, secure, and innovative digital future for the Mano River Union region.

Apply Today. Learn. Lead. Shape the Future of Internet Governance.

For application details, eligibility requirements, and programme information, visit the official MRU SIG website or follow the MRU IGF Secretariat’s social media platforms for regular updates. –https://forms.gle/kY7ZdeyuLzPu5W6K6

About MRU SIG

The Mano River Union School on Internet Governance and Emerging Technologies (MRU SIG) is the flagship regional capacity-building programme of the Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) Secretariat. Established in alignment with the principles of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (UN IGF) and the global Schools on Internet Governance (SIG) community, MRU SIG aims to develop knowledgeable, ethical, and collaborative digital leaders capable of contributing to Internet Governance, digital policy, and emerging technology discussions at national, regional, and global levels.

Media Contact

MRU IGF Secretariat
Communications and Media Unit
Email: admission@mrusig.org
Website: www.mruigf.org
MRU SIG: www.mrusig.org

Monrovia, Liberia – The Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) Secretariat is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Ousman Lamin Kallay, Country Director of iLab Liberia, as a Faculty Member of the 2026 Mano River Union School on Internet Governance and Emerging Technologies (MRU SIG).

Mr. Kallay joins a distinguished team of regional and international experts who will deliver the inaugural edition of MRU SIG, a flagship regional capacity-building initiative established to develop the next generation of Internet Governance, digital policy, and emerging technology leaders across the Mano River Union region.

As Country Director of iLab Liberia, Mr. Kallay has played a significant role in advancing digital innovation, civic technology, digital skills development, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven solutions that promote inclusive development and citizen engagement. His leadership and experience have contributed to strengthening Liberia’s innovation ecosystem while supporting young innovators, entrepreneurs, and technology professionals.

In his role as Faculty Member, Mr. Kallay will lead sessions on Digital Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Digital Skills Development, Civic Technology, Open Data, Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies, and Digital Transformation, while also mentoring participants and contributing to interactive policy discussions and innovation laboratories throughout the programme.

Commenting on the appointment, the MRU IGF Secretariat stated “We are delighted to welcome Mr. Ousman Lamin Kallay to the faculty of the inaugural Mano River Union School on Internet Governance and Emerging Technologies. His extensive experience in digital innovation, technology leadership, and capacity development will provide participants with practical insights into how innovation can support inclusive digital transformation and sustainable development across our region. His appointment reflects MRU SIG’s commitment to bringing together leading practitioners who are shaping Africa’s digital future.”

The Mano River Union School on Internet Governance and Emerging Technologies (MRU SIG) is the premier regional training programme of the MRU IGF Secretariat, designed to strengthen knowledge, leadership, and multistakeholder participation in Internet Governance, digital policy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data governance, digital rights, Internet infrastructure, and emerging technologies. The programme adopts a hybrid learning model that combines virtual learning, an intensive in-person residential school, mentorship, and an alumni network to prepare future leaders for active participation in national, regional, continental, and global Internet Governance processes.

The 2026 edition will bring together participants from Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea, Côte d’Ivoire, and other African countries, creating a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and regional digital cooperation. The MRU IGF Secretariat remains committed to assembling a diverse faculty of accomplished policymakers, regulators, academics, innovators, technical experts, and development practitioners to ensure participants receive a world-class learning experience that reflects international best practices and the evolving digital landscape.

Additional faculty appointments and programme announcements will be made in the coming weeks. The MRU SIG Mano River Union School on Internet Governance and Emerging Technologies (MRU SIG) is the flagship capacity-building programme of the Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) Secretariat. The School equips emerging leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to contribute to inclusive, secure, and resilient digital development through multistakeholder collaboration, policy dialogue, and practical learning.

In an exciting development for the digital rights ecosystem in West Africa, the Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) is proud to announce the substantial support and involvement of Paradigm Initiative (PIN) of Nigeria in its maiden edition. PIN, a leading digital rights organization across the African continent, has committed to supporting the MRU IGF both financially and technically, further underscoring their pivotal role in advancing digital inclusion, rights, and governance in the region.

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 inaugural Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) 2024 is set to take place in Freetown, Sierra Leone, from Oct 6-10, 2024 marking a significant milestone in addressing digital governance issues in one of West Africa’s most underserved regions. Leading the local implementation of this transformative event is the Internet Society (ISOC) Sierra Leone Chapter, in partnership with the Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Technology.

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.

Monrovia, Liberia – A pivotal regional consultative meeting took place in Monrovia on 12 April , 2024 , bringing together key stakeholders, experts, and policymakers to lay the groundwork for the upcoming Mano River Union Internet Governance Forum (MRU IGF) 2024. Hosted under the theme “Empowering Connectivity and Fostering Inclusive Internet Governance in the Mano River Region,” the meeting highlighted Liberia’s leading role in shaping the digital future of the MRU region, alongside upcoming events in Guinea and Sierra Leone.
The Monrovia consultative event was a critical step in setting the agenda for the MRU IGF, which will focus on promoting inclusive internet governance, building robust digital infrastructures, and addressing key issues such as cybersecurity, data protection, and regional digital inclusion.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Darren Wilkins, a renowned technology expert and internet governance advocate. Dr. Wilkins spoke passionately about the need for the region to focus on building scalable and inclusive internet infrastructures that will promote digital literacy and enhance access for all citizens. He stressed, “Digital transformation must not only be about connectivity but also about creating a safe, secure, and equitable internet environment where everyone has a voice and opportunity.”
Peterking Quaye, Coordinator of the MRU IGF, emphasized the importance of the forum in advancing internet governance and digital policy discourse across the region. “This consultative meeting in Liberia marks the beginning of an important journey for the Mano River Union countries. We are focused on building a strong regional agenda that will drive sustainable digital transformation and empower citizens through technology,” Quaye remarked. The MRU IGF consultative meeting in Monrovia is the first of several engagements set to take place across the region, with further discussions scheduled for Guinea and Sierra Leone. These consultations are expected to bring together a broad range of stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, private sector representatives, and international partners, to refine the regional internet governance agenda.
A representative from the Mano River Union office in Liberia Mr. Christain W. Jallah Sr. Resident Representative/Coordinator Resident Coordinator MRU Secretariat ,underscored the significance of these meetings in fostering cross-border collaboration on internet governance. “The MRU IGF provides an essential platform for us to come together as a region, exchange ideas, and forge solutions to the unique challenges we face in the digital space. The spirit of cooperation we are fostering here in Monrovia will be critical as we move forward with similar events in Guinea and Sierra Leone,” the representative noted.
The consultative session saw participation from prominent figures in Liberia’s tech and internet governance space, including Henry Benson, a representative of the Cable Consortium of Liberia (CCL), who provided insights into the country’s digital infrastructure and its potential to bridge the connectivity gap in underserved areas. “Liberia’s role as a digital hub within the region cannot be understated. The investments we are making today in building resilient internet infrastructure will have lasting impacts across the MRU region,” said Benson.
As the MRU IGF 2024 draws near, the outcomes of these consultative meetings will shape the forum’s key themes, ensuring that it addresses the most pressing digital issues facing the region. The forum is expected to attract a diverse array of participants and stakeholders from across Africa and beyond, all united in their goal to promote a more inclusive and secure internet ecosystem.
The Monrovia meeting concluded with a renewed sense of commitment among participants to work collaboratively to strengthen the region’s digital resilience and ensure that the MRU nations are not left behind in the rapidly evolving global digital landscape. With high expectations set for the MRU IGF 2024, the regional consultations signal the beginning of a transformative journey toward a more connected, inclusive, and prosperous future for the Mano River Union countries.