Tanzania to host over 1,200 delegates for Africa internet governance forum

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania is set to host more than 1,200 participants from around the world for the Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF), scheduled to take place from May 29 to 31, 2025, at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC).

Speaking to journalists on May 23, 2025, an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure specialist from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Mr Leo Magomba, said the forum will provide a critical platform for stakeholders to deliberate on key issues shaping internet development and digital technology across the continent.

He said Tanzania is honoured to host the event for the first time, reflecting the country’s growing role in digital governance.

“This is a significant opportunity for our nation, acknowledging our strides in advancing internet governance. It is a forum for all—policymakers, businesses, and citizens—to engage on the future of the internet,” he said.

According to 2024 statistics from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), only 38 percent of Africans have access to reliable internet, compared to the global average of 68 percent.

Mr Magomba said bridging this digital divide would be a central theme of the forum.

He said cybersecurity will also be high on the agenda, with discussions focusing on growing threats and protective measures.

Cybersecurity and digital forensics expert, Mr Yusuph Kileo, urged the public to adopt safe online practices, including strong passwords, avoiding suspicious links, and enabling multi-factor authentication.

“If you suspect your account has been compromised, the first step is to change your passwords immediately. Just as we lock our homes, we must also secure our digital spaces,” said Mr Kileo during a pre-forum workshop for journalists in Dar es Salaam.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is another focal area, given its growing influence in enhancing productivity and driving technological innovation, especially under the fourth and fifth industrial revolutions.

“We need to explore how AI can accelerate economic and social progress. The forum will feature live demonstrations, and we encourage Tanzanians to attend, learn, and innovate,” said Mr Magomba.

Another key area will be global cooperation in internet governance, recognising that effective governance requires multinational collaboration rather than isolated efforts.

Tanzania’s National Coordinator for the Internet Governance Forum, Dr Nazar Kirama, said more than 1,000 delegates from across Africa and 10 European countries are expected to attend.

“This is part of a global framework initiated by the United Nations, flowed to the African continent and the East African region. We will focus on shaping internet policy and promoting youth engagement in digital innovation,” noted Dr Kirama.

He added that the forum marks a major milestone in Africa’s digital transformation journey and provides Tanzania with a strategic platform to strengthen its role in global ICT discourse, while benefiting from international expertise and partnerships.