By: Amukelani Matsilele

Introduction

With less than six years remaining to achieve the SDGs, the African continent finds itself at a defining digital crossroads. Decisions made in Geneva, New York, and Nairobi today will shape the livelihoods of billions of people tomorrow. Africa’s digital transformation over the years has connected millions of people and unlocked new economic opportunities, positioning the continent as a growing force in global technology conversations[i]. This has also been due to Africa being a fast adopter of technology. Several developments have led to improvements in internet infrastructure across the continent. However, challenges remain due to the digital divide and affordability constraints[ii]. A diverse ecosystem of actors is actively shaping digital policymaking. These include governments and tech developers, as well as civil society and local communities. They engage across inclusive platforms such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) [iii]and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN)[iv], as well as through UN specialised agencies. These agencies cover areas such as telecommunications, e-commerce, and digital health. Yet for all this momentum, Africa’s progress on the SDGs remains deeply uneven, undermined by geopolitical tensions and gaps. For instance, the U.S.-China rivalry has made Africa a key battleground, with China’s digital Silk Road funding infrastructure across the continent, while the United States counters through initiatives such as the Digital Connectivity and cybersecurity partnership. Another key issue is that we have the continent at 38% internet usage rate compared to the world that is at 68% [v]infrastructure deficit. Data from Africa renewal [vi]paints a sobering picture. Only 35% of the targets show adequate progress, while 48% show insufficient progress. A further 17% have stalled, and 18% regressing. These limitations inform the persistent lack of Africa’s voice in the global digital governance structures that most affect the continent.

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