The African Declaration on Internet Rights and Freedoms (AfDec) Coalition has launched two major publications to mark the 10th anniversary of the Declaration.
These reports assess the impact of the Declaration over the past decade and outline future priorities in advancing digital rights across Africa.
The announcement was made on February 11, 2025, during Safer Internet Day, a global event that promotes safer and more responsible digital technology use, especially among children and young people. The AfDec Coalition emphasized its commitment to fostering a secure, inclusive, and human rights-driven digital environment.
The first publication, Ten Years of Building a Movement for Digital Rights in Africa: Impact of the African Declaration on Rights and Freedoms in Africa, was authored by Zimbabwean digital rights activist Koliwe Majama. It provides an in-depth account of the Coalition’s advocacy efforts, partnerships, and influence in shaping a more inclusive digital landscape.
The report highlights the continued relevance of the African Declaration as a guiding framework in the fast-changing internet and technology space. It states that coalition members have used its principles in advocacy, policymaking, research, and capacity-building initiatives. According to the report, 201 documented instances of the Declaration’s application and citation are available on the AfDec website, demonstrating its practical impact.
The second publication, Emerging Issues in Digital Rights in Africa: A Discussion Paper for the AfDec Coalition, was authored by Nigerian digital rights advocate Edetaen Ojo. It examines key trends, challenges, and opportunities in Africa’s evolving digital landscape.
The report identifies critical emerging issues such as algorithmic bias, data privacy, digital infrastructure access, surveillance concerns, and the digital inclusion of marginalized communities. It argues for updating the Declaration to address these evolving challenges and ensure it remains a relevant and actionable framework for digital rights in Africa.
Zoé Titus, Executive Director of the NMT Media Foundation in Namibia and Chairperson of the Global Forum for Media Development (GFMD), edited both reports. She described the publications as essential tools for stakeholders working to advance digital rights and freedoms across the continent.
“These publications highlight both the progress made and the challenges that remain in ensuring that every African can exercise their digital rights without fear or discrimination,” Titus said. “We hope they will serve as valuable resources for policymakers, activists, and all stakeholders invested in a free, open, and inclusive internet.”
The AfDec Coalition is a network of civil society organizations, academics, and activists advocating for human rights and openness in internet governance across Africa.
