Proposal for an Equitable Digital Future:A Reference Document for a Pan-African Diplomatic Position on Select Sections of the WSIS+20 Zero Draft, Vol – I

Africa is ready to move from promises to proof. This reference document sets out a clear, practical position for the continent as WSIS+20 heads to its final text. It backs the right principles – but insists they must be matched with measurable action, fair finance, and respect for rights so we can close the structural gaps holding millions back.

The paper lays out five pillars of change:

  • Make access truly affordable – targeting 2% of GNI for 2GB of data – so cost is no longer the first barrier.
  • Protect and govern our data at home, building trusted systems and skills across the continent.
  • Unlock smart financing – blended instruments and debt-linked options – to build resilient digital infrastructure at scale.
  • Defend openness and fundamental freedoms online by ending disproportionate shutdowns and digital restrictions.
  • Build African-centric, interoperable digital public infrastructure to power AfCFTA, and open doors for youth and women-led enterprise.

This is a diplomatic roadmap – firm, constructive, and solution-focused – inviting negotiators to embed specific, evidence-based commitments in the WSIS+20 outcome. The goal is simple: a fair, sovereign, and resilient digital future in which African nations participate as equal partners and communities can thrive.

Download the full paper here to explore the proposals and recommended text changes in detail

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