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 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.