Hazras Charity Foundation

Event Details:

Event Title: Africa Internet Governance Forum (AIGF)

Date: 20th to 22nd November 2024

Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Representative: Dr. Abdullateef Abdulkadir

Introduction:
Hazras Charity Foundation (HCF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering digital inclusion, human rights, and sustainable development, participated in the Africa Internet Governance Forum (AIGF) held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Represented by Dr. Abdullateef Abdulkadir, HCF made significant contributions to discussions surrounding internet governance, accessibility, and the role of civil society in shaping inclusive digital policies.

Objectives of Participation:
HCF’s involvement aimed to:

1. Advocate for equitable access to digital resources across Africa, particularly in underserved communities.

2. Share insights from HCF’s projects and initiatives addressing digital literacy and inclusion.

3. Engage with stakeholders to form strategic partnerships that advance internet governance principles aligned with HCF’s mission.

Key Contributions:
Dr. Abdullateef Abdulkadir actively engaged in various sessions and workshops during the forum, emphasizing the following:

1. Promoting Digital Equity:
Dr. Abdulkadir highlighted HCF’s ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide in Nigeria through community-driven digital literacy programs. He shared success stories from initiatives targeting women and youth in rural areas, illustrating the transformative power of technology in socio-economic development.

2. Advocating for Civil Society Participation:
Representing civil society, Dr. Abdulkadir stressed the importance of grassroots involvement in internet governance dialogues. He called for policies that reflect the voices of marginalized communities, ensuring inclusivity in the digital space.

3. Collaborative Networking:
During the event, Dr. Abdulkadir participated in panel discussions and roundtable sessions, fostering collaboration with other organizations. He explored potential partnerships to expand HCF’s reach and amplify its impact in internet governance.

4. Contribution to Policy Recommendations:
Dr. Abdulkadir contributed to the development of actionable policy recommendations, advocating for:

Improved internet infrastructure in rural Africa.

Digital capacity-building programs for underrepresented groups.

Strengthened cybersecurity measures to protect vulnerable populations.

Outcomes and Impact:
HCF’s participation at the AIGF resulted in:

1. Enhanced visibility of the organization’s work in internet governance and digital inclusion.

2. Establishment of new partnerships with international and regional stakeholders.

3. Recognition of HCF’s commitment to advancing digital equity and human rights in Africa.

Future Directions:
Building on the momentum from the AIGF, HCF plans to:

1. Scale up digital literacy programs in Nigeria and extend them to other African nations.

2. Advocate for stronger representation of civil society in global internet governance platforms.

3. Continue participating in forums like the AIGF to contribute to shaping inclusive digital policies.

Conclusion:
Hazras Charity Foundation’s participation in the Africa Internet Governance Forum underscores its dedication to advancing digital inclusion and fostering equitable internet governance. Dr. Abdullateef Abdulkadir’s contributions were pivotal in amplifying the voices of civil society and advocating for transformative change. HCF remains committed to the mission of creating a connected and inclusive Africa.