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.