KICTANet is proud to participate in the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF25), taking place from April 29 to May 1, 2025, in Zambia. Hosted under the theme “Promoting Digital Ubuntu in Approaches to Technology,” this year’s forum brings together thought leaders, policymakers, civil society, and technologists to explore how Ubuntu—grounded in community, trust, and shared humanity—can guide Africa’s digital transformation.
KICTANet will host two sessions that reflect our commitment to inclusive, rights-based, and contextually relevant approaches to digital governance and policy. These sessions aim to elevate discussions around ethical data practices and digital inclusion, particularly for persons with disabilities (PwDs).
From Policy to Practice: Multistakeholder Dialogue on Implementing the AU Data Policy Framework.
Date: Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Time: 12:10 PM – 1:10 PM EAT
Location: Room 4
The African Union Data Policy Framework (AUDPF) presents a continental vision for ethical and inclusive data governance. However, despite its promise, awareness and adoption at national levels remain limited. Recognizing this gap, KICTANet is working to promote the domestication of the AUDPF across African countries.
This session will convene a diverse and intergenerational group of stakeholders—including policymakers, civil society representatives, business leaders, academics, technologists, and youth advocates—to discuss practical strategies for advancing the framework’s implementation. By embedding Ubuntu principles of trust, community, and shared responsibility, the session seeks to inspire collective action toward nationalizing the AUDPF and making it meaningful at the local level.
Participants will also explore how inclusive data governance frameworks can support sustainable development, digital rights, and responsible innovation across the continent.
East and West: Advancing Inclusive ICT Policies in Africa.
Date: Thursday, May 1, 2025
Time: 12:10 PM – 1:10 PM EAT
Location: Room 5
As Africa accelerates its digital transformation, persons with disabilities (PwDs) continue to face entrenched barriers to full digital participation. While both East and West Africa have made notable efforts in improving ICT accessibility, significant challenges remain, especially in policy implementation, digital infrastructure, and public awareness.
This session will take a closer look at the current state of digital inclusion for PwDs, focusing on key regional experiences. It will spotlight important instruments such as the African Disability Protocol and national ICT accessibility standards, while highlighting persistent gaps in enforcement and practice.
Panellists will unpack the challenges that limit meaningful access for PwDs, including inaccessible digital content, inadequate assistive technologies, and a general lack of awareness among developers and decision-makers. Through cross-regional dialogue, the session will identify best practices and policy solutions to bridge these gaps and ensure that Africa’s digital future is truly inclusive.
Join the Conversation.
KICTANet invites all DRIF25 participants and stakeholders to attend these sessions and contribute to the discussions. As we work toward a more equitable and connected Africa, it is critical to ground our efforts in values that promote inclusion, collaboration, and respect for human dignity.
