The Nairobi Internet Governance Forum on March 15, 2025, wasn’t just another event - it was a wake-up call. Attendees from diverse backgrounds engaged in eye-opening discussions, challenging long-held perceptions and sparking fresh ideas about Africa’s place in the global internet ecosystem.
The Internet: A Tool or a Battlefield?
One of the most heated discussions of the day revolved around control. Who really governs the internet? While most assume it operates freely, participants soon realized that a handful of organizations and governments shape critical decisions behind the scenes. This sparked an intense debate: Should Africa push for greater self-governance, or does collaboration with global entities ensure stability?
AFRINIC’s Role – Power or Responsibility?
Many attendees were unaware of AFRINIC’s direct impact on their businesses and internet access. As the sole distributor of Africa’s IP addresses, AFRINIC influences who gets online and who remains in the digital shadows. The discussion then shifted to its upcoming elections: Does leadership matter? The resounding answer was YES. Attendees left with a newfound sense of urgency - voting isn’t just a right; it’s a necessity to ensure transparency and efficiency in internet governance.
The Hidden Goldmine – Owning Your Own IP
An interactive session exposed an overlooked reality: if businesses and individuals owned their own IP addresses they would wield greater control over their online presence. NRS led a thought-provoking session, challenging attendees to rethink their internet strategies—are we renting space in someone else’s digital house, or are we building our own?
What’s Next? The Power of Collective Action
By the end of the day, one thing was clear: passive participation is no longer an option. Whether it’s voting in the AFRINIC elections, securing an independent internet presence, or advocating for policies that protect Africa’s digital interests, every stakeholder has a role to play.
The Nairobi event was more than just a meeting—it was a movement.
The question now is, will we take action, or will we allow others to decide our digital future for us?
Watch out for our next event in your, city or country.
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