By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The African Declaration on Internet Rights and Freedoms (AfDec) Coalition has launched two pivotal publications to commemorate the Declaration’s 10th anniversary. These publications review the impact of the Declaration over the past decade and outline the Coalition’s future efforts to promote and defend digital rights across Africa, according to the Media Rights Agenda (MRA).
The announcement was made on Safer Internet Day, celebrated globally on February 11, which promotes safer, more responsible use of digital technologies, especially among children and young people. The AfDec Coalition reiterated its commitment to fostering a secure, inclusive, and human rights-respecting digital environment.
First Publication: A Decade of Impact
The first report, titled 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 Koliwe Majama, a Zimbabwean digital rights activist. The report chronicles the AfDec Coalition’s achievements over the past decade, highlighting its advocacy efforts, partnerships, and role in shaping a more inclusive digital environment across the continent.
The report emphasizes that the African Declaration has remained relevant and adaptable in the face of rapidly evolving technological landscapes. It notes, Over the past decade, coalition members have drawn both directly and indirectly from its principles to guide their work. The principles have been frequently cited in lobbying efforts, policy development, research activities, and **capacity-building initiatives targeting diverse stakeholders.
To date, the Coalition has documented 201 practical use cases** of the Declaration’s 13 principles on its official website. These cases reflect how coalition members and partners have applied the principles to address emerging developments within Africa’s dynamic digital environment.
Second Publication: Addressing Emerging Digital Rights Challenges
The second publication, Emerging Issues in Digital Rights in Africa: A Discussion Paper for the African Declaration on Internet Rights and Freedoms (AfDec) Coalition, was written by Edetaen Ojo, a prominent Nigerian digital rights and freedom of expression campaigner.
This report explores the rapidly evolving landscape of digital rights on the continent, identifying key trends, challenges, and opportunities as Africa undergoes digital transformation. It highlights issues such as **algorithmic bias**, **data privacy**, **data sovereignty**, **equitable access to digital infrastructure**, **safeguards against surveillance abuses**, and the **digital inclusion of marginalized communities**.
The report calls for an update to the Declaration to address these emerging complexities. It argues for refining existing provisions and adding new ones to ensure the Declaration remains a **forward-looking, actionable framework** capable of addressing Africa’s evolving digital rights challenges.
Empowering Stakeholders for the Future
Comrade 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 stated that the publications aim to equip policymakers, activists, and stakeholders with the knowledge and strategies needed to advance digital rights across Africa.
These publications are a testament to the progress made and the challenges that remain as we strive to ensure that every African can enjoy their digital rights without fear or discrimination,” said Titus. “We hope they will serve as valuable resources for policymakers, activists, and all stakeholders invested in a free, open, and inclusive internet.”
About the AfDec Coalition
The AfDec Coalition** is a network of civil society organizations, academics, and activists dedicated to promoting human rights standards and principles of openness in internet policy and regulation across Africa.
