Abdeldjalil Bachar Bong is a dedicated digital and environmental rights advocate based in Chad. He founded  and serves as CEO of HOUSE OF AFRICA , a not-for-profit organization accredited by ALAC/ICANN and United Nations ECOSOC , focused on promoting ICT development, environmental protection, and empowering youth and women. Since 2015, Abdeldjalil has been the executive secretary of the National Internet Governance Forum (IGF CHAD) and served as Secretary of The African Regional At-Large Organization (AFRALO) /ALAC/ICANN from 2020 to 2024. He is currently a permanent member of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC) of the African Union for the term 2022-2026. Additionally, he is the co-convener of Chadian Cybersecurity Day since 2022 and co-convenes the Chadian School of Internet Governance (TdSIG).
Abdeldjalil was also part of the National Committee organizing the Seventh African School on Internet Governance (AfriSIG), held from September 4-9, 2019, and the African IGF in N’Djamena, Chad. A former UN Youth Delegate. As an expert at the National Agency for Computer Security and E-Certification (ANSICE), he has played a key role in enhancing cybersecurity in Chad. A young and active leader in Chad and the African civil space, Abdeldjalil participates in various Internet governance foras, including IGF, ICANN, ITU, and AFRINIC. He has been recognized as an ICANN Fellow twice. He is engaged in community empowerment, ICT  and climate change initiatives.He holds a Master’s in Information Technology from the University de Bretagne Sud (UBS) and is passionate about digital rights,child online protection, sustainable development, and social empowerment.

Ali Sabo is a Senior Program Officer at the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD), leading initiatives on digital rights advocacy, digital inclusion and anti-corruption. A passionate journalist with the interest in reporting the untold stories, he champions internet freedom, civic engagement, and social justice. Ali has trained thousands of young people, journalists, and civil society leaders, influencing policy reforms and expanding digital inclusion. He currently leads a team of professionals, driving impactful change in digital rights and digital inclusion.

Audace Niyonkuru is the founder and CEO of Digital Umuganda, an AI and open data firm based in Kigali, Rwanda. His company focuses on enhancing access to information and services in local African languages. Under his leadership, Digital Umuganda has built an open voice datasets in over 14 countries across the continent to improve natural language processing (NLP) and AI applications for African languages. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, his team developed the Mbaza AI Chatbot to provide accurate and timely information, showcasing the real-world impact of their work.

Belinda Matore is a human rights practitioner and researcher with experience working within the African Human Rights System, with a particular focus on digital rights and children’s rights in the digital age. She currently serves as a Project Officer at the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, where she works on initiatives that promote human rights in the context of technology, law, and policy across the continent. Her PhD research focuses on child digital rights, exploring how legal and policy frameworks in Africa can be strengthened to better protect and empower children online. Her work engages with key themes such as online safety, privacy, access, and meaningful participation of children in digital governance processes. She is particularly interested in rights-based approaches to digital inclusion and in ensuring that children’s voices are not only heard but centred in conversations around internet governance, data protection, and digital transformation in Africa.

An experienced advocate from the United Republic of Tanzania who is passionate about law and technology. Has worked with various institutions including fintech's and is always enthusiastic in finding legal solutions which help organisations thrive.

Sen. Catherine Muyeka Mumma is a Nominated Senator representing women in the Senate. She is a member of the Senate’s Speaker’s Panel, the Vice-chairperson of the Devolution and Inter-Governmental Relations Committee and a member of the Justice, Legal and Human Rights Committee (JLAHRC) of the Senate. She is the Deputy Chair representing the Senate in the Kenya Women Parliamentarians Association KEWOPA and is also a member of the Kenya Women Senators Association (KEWOSA). She is a member of the parliamentary caucuses on Climate Change and the SDGs. Sen. Mumma is a lawyer by profession who has a passion for human rights practice and activism. She has served in all sectors including the public, non-profit and private sectors. She served in the Kenya government as a State Counsel and served in independent commissions as a commissioner in the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), the Independent Review Commission (“Kriegler”; Commission) that recommended the overhaul of the electoral system in Kenya following the 2007 post-election violence and the Constitution Implementation Commission (CIC) that was established to guide the implementation of the 2010 constitution after its promulgation. She is the former Chairperson of the ODM National Elections Board which was the first to introduce electronic voting in party primary elections last year. She has served on several boards locally and internationally and has co-founded several NGOs that work on various human rights concerns. She has also served as an independent consultant for many organizations on gender, governance, human rights approaches, devolution, and social risk management among others.

Chilufya Theresa Mulenga is a certified Gender Equity Changemaker and the founder of the ICT4Her Club, an initiative dedicated to bridging the gender gap in the tech industry. With over six years of experience in the STEAM/ICT sector, she has been at the forefront of driving development and innovation in local communities. As an Internet Policy and Advocacy professional, Digital Rights and Gender Equality activist, and Universal Acceptance Ambassador, Chilufya is committed to universal digital inclusion. Through her work, she champions Universal Acceptance (UA), ensuring that all people regardless of language, script, or digital identity can fully access and benefit from the internet. Her advocacy extends through her role as Vice President of the Internet Society Zambia Chapter, where she tirelessly works to promote accessible and inclusive internet for all. Passionate about connecting the unconnected, Chilufya continues to drive initiatives that empower marginalized groups, particularly women and girls, in the digital space.

Honorable Vuanga Christelle, élue, 2 ieme mandat kinshasa. Presidente commission droits humains et Presidente commission genre, famille et enfant. Journaliste, conférencier, activiste des droits humains.

Daniel Sarungi is a technology expert specialized in Strategic Information systems with over 15 years of experience. He has worked with both private corporate institutions and public institutions, spanning the banking industry and e- Government sectors, specialized in systems audit and security. Sarungi has been instrumental in championing business process engineering and information systems at The Personal Data Protection Commission. He is currently the Project Manager heading the National Taskforce for Tanzania Digital Transformation under the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology. In this role, he oversees Samia's Technology Stack, including projects such as e-KYC, Jamii X-Change, JamiiNamba, JamiiPay, JamiiPortal, Huduma Pamoja, and the Consent Management System, which is specifically designed to benefit Data Subjects

Daniel Mvalo is a highly skilled Technology and Innovation Specialist with a deep passion for leveraging technology to solve community challenges in Malawi and Africa. With more than 10 years of experience in supporting digital literacy initiatives and overseeing the development of software innovations in fields ranging from education and health to politics, human rights and entertainment. Daniel has also spearheaded digital transformation initiatives where he has trained over 6000 teachers and 20000 students in basic digital and programming skills, nurturing the next generation of tech-savvy individuals from various schools across the country. Additionally, he has trained over 1000 children in mobile app development and over 5000 youths in robotics and Micro bits, contributing significantly to the socio-economic transformation of livelihoods through technology.

I am David Magiroya, I studied Bachelor of Arts in Statistics to the University of Dar es salaam which is currently working as Civil Servant with academic professional as Statistician but employed as Economist with Government of Tanzania in the Department of Policy and Planning. Through working with the Government until now I have working experience of seven years. In working with the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology I have the duties and responsibilities which includes Ministry Risk Coordinator; to prepare budget, Action Plan and cash flow of the Ministry; coordinating review and preparation of policy and legal documents; Preparation Ministerial Ruling Part Manifesto; Preparing Concept note and proposals for requesting fund to the Ministry of Finance. With this regard I assist the Ministry to achieve its goals through the Strategic Plan.

Député à l'Assemblée nationale du Cameroun depuis 2013, présidente de la commission des affaires culturelles sociales et familiales, membre du réseau parlementaire sur le NTIC oeuvre pour la fête l'alphabétisation numérique des parlementaires et des membres de notre association contre l'action gouvernementale sur les politiques publiques sur la bonne gouvernance Internet et l'intelligence artificielle.

Employed by the Judiciary of Tanzania as Resident Magistrate,I hold Master in Procedural and International legal Practice, post graduate diploma in legal practice. I completed Advanced Human rights course on Artificial Intelligence and Data Protection.registered as an Advocate, Tanzania member of Privacy professions.

Efraim P. Mwakalobo is an accomplished ICT professional with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and over seven years of progressive experience in the public sector. He has played a key role in the planning, implementation, and oversight of national ICT infrastructure projects, ensuring the secure and efficient delivery of digital services across government systems. Currently serving as an ICT Officer, Efraim brings deep expertise in network management, systems integration, and infrastructure supervision. His work supports Tanzania’s digital transformation agenda, with a focus on innovation, data security, and sustainable ICT development. Driven by a passion for technology and public service, he is committed to advancing digital inclusion and positioning ICT as a catalyst for national development.

Ernest is a Telecommunications Expert and the founder of E-Telecom Consult, where he has overseen the certification of telecommunications and ICT products entering the Zambian market on behalf of manufacturers since 2018. His extensive background in equipment conformity assessment ensures that all products meet rigorous national and international standards. As a member of the Zambia National Standardization Technical Committee, he plays a crucial role in developing and adopting Quality of Service (QoS) standards that enhance user experience in telecommunications across Zambia. Previously, Ernest served as the chair of the Affordable Internet Access Special Interest Group under the Internet Society, advocating for equitable access to technology. Actively engaged with the Zambia IGF and the Internet Society Zambia Chapter, he is passionate about connecting people and technology. Internationally, he participates in ITU focus groups on Emerging Technologies and Cybersecurity, as well as the U4SSC Thematic Group on Digital Public Infrastructure for Cities. An ICANN82 Fellow and recipient of the Paul Muchene Technical Fellowship Award, Ernest contributes to the Internet Governance Community by speaking at African and UN Internet Governance Forums and volunteering as a rapporteur and technical support. His professional expertise includes telecommunications, Communications Infrastructure Economics and Regulation, public management, and governance, along with a certification in wireless analysis.

I am an ICT and digital forensics expertise in cybersecurity and protection, data governance, ICT policy, and internet regulation. Passionate about securing digital sphere and shaping Tanzania cyber space and Africa at large, I work on innovative solutions to enhance security, privacy, and digital policies. I'm committed to driving positive change in emerging technologies, internet governance and cybersecurity advancements.

Esther Nyapendi is an Information Technologist by profession and currently serving as the Technical Support Officer at Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET) with over 5 years of experience working at the intersection of Gender and Technology and ICT4D. Currently pursuing a masters in Information Systems. Esther is a trainer in Digital literacy, Security and Safety as well as Digital Rights. She is dedicated to advocating for inclusive technology programs and passionately defends the rights.

Eveline Peter Olomi is a Legal Officer at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology with three years of professional experience in the legal field. In her current role, she plays a key part in the development and review of national legal frameworks that govern the digital and communications sectors. Eveline contributes to shaping Tanzania’s digital future by providing legal guidance on data protection, internet governance, and ICT regulatory compliance. Her expertise and dedication position her as an emerging expert in Africa’s internet governance space.

Principal ICT Office with experience of over 25 years. Has working experience from different government institutions. Specialized in formulation of strategies and policies governing ICT sector and development of startups.

I am Fatima Waziri, currently working as an Officer in the New Media and Information Security Department (NMIS) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC). My job description includes contributing to promoting a safe and inclusive online environment, with child online protection as my area of expertise and a cause close to my heart. With an understanding of Nigeria's unique challenges and opportunities, I am dedicated to ensuring that the internet benefits everyone, while minimizing its risks.

I have been a Telecommunications Works Engineer at the Ministry of Telecommunications and the Digital Economy since 1992. I obtained my Telecommunications Works Engineering degree from the Multinational Higher School of Telecommunications in Dakar in 2002. I worked from 1992 to 2019 at the Chad Telecommunications Company, where I held several positions of responsibility, including coordinator of the Fiber Optic Management Network, Head of the Human Resources, Sales, Marketing, and Customer Service Departments. I currently hold the position of Director of Legal Affairs and Litigation within the Ministry, and previously, I was appointed Deputy Inspector General of the Ministry. Member of several working committees set up within the Ministry, MAG IGF AC focal point and participant in the work of ITU Study Group 2 on “digital transformation”.

Goodnews Sandy is a digital transformation expert and software developer from Nigeria with over seven years of building scalable tech solutions. She led the development of a bilingual open innovation platform to make open resources available to marginalized communities. She has a proven track record of supporting digital implementation and data collection at the continental level and specializes in leveraging emerging technologies to drive inclusive digital transformation across Africa and beyond. Goodnews is a proud advocate for open source and digital public goods to support global digital transformation.

I'm an experienced System Administrator with 9 years in managing and maintaining IT infrastructures. Recently, I earned a Master's degree in Data Science and Analytics, and I'm now expanding my focus toward data-driven solutions and advanced analytics to support strategic decision-making.

Hamadi Badi Ngowo, From Tanzania, Employed by the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology as Principal Administrative Officer, MBA (Human Resources Management) holder, My current roles include managing administrative support services, ensuring a conducive work environment. coordinating office administration including utilities, security, transport, overseeing building maintenance, dealing with coordinates Department budgetary preparation and implementation, ensuring the efficient operation of the office, including facilities and equipment management, preparing regular administrative reports, overseeing and managing the Registry's operations, and systems to ensure efficient document management and record-keeping and it's safety. Performing Human Resources functions include training management, staff development and maintenance, leave management and coordinate performance management

Mr. Ibrahim Jengo has over 17 years of experience in technical and leadership roles, specializing in the planning, design, implementation, optimization, and support of a wide range of technical systems. He has successfully led medium to large-scale projects for national and multinational organizations, with expertise that includes the automation of water process plants, microwave and transmission systems (2G, 3G, and 4G), fleet management systems, and network infrastructure across LAN, WAN, VSAT, and VoIP platforms. Led multiple high-impact projects under the Digital Tanzania Project (DTP), including serving as Project Manager for the successful completion of the Zanzibar Tier III Carrier-Neutral Data Center in June 2024, and spearheading the Technical Secretariat for the development of the National Digital Identity System, 'Jamii Namba’. Mr. Jengo served as the Technical and Operations Manager at the National Internet Data Center for eight years, where he played a key role in overseeing operations and technical functions. Under the Digital Tanzania Project, he has successfully held multiple roles spanning both technical and managerial responsibilities including development of frameworks and policies. He is currently a Principal Engineer at the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology of Tanzania, where he focuses on the development and advancement of core infrastructure, particularly data centers and broadband networks.

Senior Information Technology Officer with over nine years of experience in various government institutions, currently working at the Information Department. As an IT expert, she plays a key role in disseminating government information to the public. Her responsibilities include managing government media platforms and enhancing public engagement through digital channels, ensuring effective and transparent communication.

Joachim is deeply committed to leveraging the potential of data and technology in an ethical and responsible manner to drive positive social impact. He has actively contributed to the establishment of open and reliable digital and data ecosystems. Joachim's professional journey includes collaborations with reputable institutions such as Enabel, World Bank, Novartis, Data4Change, Open Knowledge Foundation, Open Data Institute, D-tree International, HIVOS, and Tanzania Open Data Initiative to name a few. His involvement spans various domains, including Digital Transformation and Digital Inclusion, Building of Innovation Ecosystems, Digital and Data Literacy, Open Data, Open Contracting, and Open Government Data.

John Luhaga is an ICT professional with Bachelor Degree in Computer Science and over 5 years of experience in Public Sector. Currently serving as an ICT Officer. He has played a key role in IT Support team by assisting users with technical issues related to hardware, software, networks, and systems. This include troubleshooting problems, providing technical assistance, maintaining IT infrastructure, and ensuring system security and efficiency.

I have built my career in communication and networking technologies, focusing on improving communication in Tanzania and across Africa. I am committed on expanding access, building better digital infrastructure, and supporting policies that help communities connect and grow.

Kelvin Modo is a Data Analytics and Governance Specialist with a passion for leveraging data to drive business transformation and decision-making. With a strong foundation in data science, engineering, and business management, he has developed expertise in data governance, data protection, predictive analytics, and revenue assurance across the banking and telecom industries for the last 8 years. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Engineering, a Master of Science in Data Science and a Commonwealth Executive Master of Business Administration and various industry related certifications. Over the years, I have successfully led data governance frameworks, compliance initiatives, and analytics-driven strategies that have enhanced operational efficiency, mitigated risks, and maximized revenue. I am particularly skilled in data pipeline design, automated data integrity checks, fraud detection, and machine learning-driven insights. Key expertise: Data Governance and Data Protection – Established and led Data Governance Committees, ensuring enterprise-wide compliance with data protection regulations and best practices; Advanced Analytics and AI – Designed predictive models and machine learning algorithms for customer segmentation, churn reduction, and risk assessment; Revenue Assurance and Fraud Detection – Developed automated processes to detect billing errors, fraud risks, and revenue leakages within banking and telecom environments; Digital Transformation – Championed data-driven innovation, successfully integrating automation, cloud analytics, and AI-driven solutions in financial operations; Data-Driven Decision-Making – Built dashboards and reporting frameworks that empower executives with real-time business intelligence.

Lyndcey Oriko is a trained lawyer and a Program Officer at Kenya’s National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC), where she leads the Commission's efforts to address online hate speech, disinformation, ethnic contempt, and discrimination and advance peace, social cohesion, and inclusive digital policy.

Read more here: www.mawasiliano.go.tz

Détenteur d’une licence en mathématiques et informatique. Administrateur réseaux. Certifié Cisco comptia+.

Mgolozi Methusela Peresi is a data and technology professional with expertise in business intelligence, data analytics, and machine learning. He has worked on impactful projects ranging from enterprise reporting dashboards to AI-based MRI image deblurring models. With a passion for solving problems through data, Mgolozi is committed to driving innovation and insights across organizations.

Mwinanu Mwala is a Fraud and Cybercrime Investigator and MSc Cybersecurity graduate from the University of Kent Canterbury England.

Nafidh Ally Mola is a dynamic leader and innovator in internet governance, artificial intelligence, and digital inclusion based in Tanzania. As the Youth-IGFTz Coordinator at the Tanzania Internet Governance Forum (TZIGF), Nafidh drives initiatives to empower youth in shaping the digital landscape. He is the founder of AI-powered platforms such as KwiboBuzz, NAV Forecasting and Tichika, which address critical issues in internet governance, digital education, and economic inclusion across Africa. Recognized as a Young Achiever Award winner at the Tehama Awards, Nafidh is celebrated for his impactful contributions to technology and innovation. Nafidh significantly contributes to internet and ICT policy through Tichika, promoting inclusive digital education policies and equitable internet access for students, particularly in secondary schools, to bridge the digital divide.

Necta Richard is a dynamic humanitarian technologist and digital policy advocate with a strong background in STEM and internet governance. She has led transformative programs that leverage technology to bridge the digital divide, particularly for women and marginalized groups. With expertise in capacity building, innovation management, and inclusive digital transformation, Necta plays a key role in advancing gender-responsive digital policies and skills development across Tanzania. In her current role at GIZ, she supports initiatives that strengthen technical capacities in digital governance and human rights. Necta is also active in multistakeholder dialogues, contributing thought leadership on equitable digital futures at national and international forums.

Neema Mwanalinze is an Information Technology Officer with more than eight years of experience in the Information Department and other government institutions. She focuses on promoting public education and awareness on critical technological issues, including digital transformation and emerging technologies. Her work supports the adoption of innovative solutions to enhance government services and public engagement.

Nigel Nyamutumbu is a human rights practitioner currently serving in the media development sphere as the Coordinator of a network of media professional associations and support organizations, the Media Alliance of Zimbabwe (MAZ). He has over a decade experience in media development and journalistic work, which has seen him lead various programs and projects that promote human rights with particular focus on freedom of expression, access to information and digital rights in Zimbabwe and in Southern Africa. As part of this leadership in media, Nyamutumbu is the current Zimbabwe National Facilitator of an International Training Program (ITP) on media regulation supported by the Swedish government. He is a columnist and writer at the Standard, a weekly newspaper in Zimbabwe. Nyamutumbu is a former Programs Manager at the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists (ZUJ) and has had journalistic stints at the Zimbabwe Independent and Daily News. In the broader civic space, Nyamutumbu sits on the Heads of Civic Society Organizations Coalitions, a platform for information sharing and joint advocacy for civics. He has worked with the European Union Observer Mission to Zimbabwe as the Assistant to the Social Media Analyst, a role that gained him experience in media monitoring and understanding digital rights in elections. He earned his academic qualifications in Media and International Relations from the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa. Further to academic qualifications, he has completed mid-career programs including in project management done with the US Aid through PACT and Conflict sensitive journalism completed at Rhodes University, South Africa. A member of Amnesty International Zimbabwe, Nyamutumbu is an alumni of the prestigious United States of America (USA) International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP). Among his portfolio, Nyamutumbu has done research and consultancy work for American Friends Service Committee (AFSC), where he was one of the researchers in a global publication on restricted spaces. He has done work the Voluntary Media Council of Zimbabwe (VMCZ), the Zimbabwe Elections Support Network (ZESN), Media Monitors and the Zimbabwe National Editors Forum (ZINEF). He has edited several MAZ research papers and policy briefs. Nyamutumbu was in 2023 recognized by the Al Jazeera Centre for Studies and the Mass Communication at Qatar University, for valuable research contribution on “Social Media Networks and Ideological Polarization: Power Relations and Socio-cultural impact.”

I am currently the Director of Data Protection Research and Technology at the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC) in Tanzania, where I am involved in developing policies, regulations, and guidelines for technological advancements in personal data protection. Additionally, at the PDPC, I am responsible for monitoring and shaping the impacts of emerging technologies and innovations on the privacy of data subjects (individuals and society). Before joining the PDPC in May 2024, I was the Director of ICT and a lecturer in AI and Cybersecurity at the University of Dodoma in Tanzania. I am an experienced cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and data science researcher/engineer with over eleven (11) years of experience in telecommunications, networking, software and web application security, and applying AI and data science to cybersecurity problems. My specialization is in the design and implementation of AI models specifically for detecting anomalies in computer networks. Additionally, I have experience in using blockchain technology to design and develop secure and privacy-preserving decentralized systems. My PhD research at Northumbria University, UK, focused on exploiting blockchain technology and Artificial Immune Systems (AIS) to develop a decentralized, secure, and privacy-preserving e-Government system for enforcing data protection and trust. While pursuing my master's degree in India in 2014, I received professional training in ethical hacking, Linux server administration, Android mobile application development, CCNA, and web application programming in JAVA. My most significant contribution to AI and academic research is the development of a new general-purpose multi-class classifier based on the Dendritic Cell Algorithm (McDCA). My current research and practical work focus on leveraging African-origin datasets to develop AI- powered solutions that address privacy problems related to data breaches and unlawful access to personal information. With the increasing amount of data being collected and processed, there is a heightened risk of it falling into the wrong hands, whether through hacking or other security breaches.

With a strong legal background and a commitment to advancing gender equity and community involvement, Peninah is passionate about the intersection of the law, technology, and social justice. Her work focuses on bridging the gender digital divide, amplifying digital rights, and empowering underrepresented communities. As a dedicated leader in feminist advocacy and a contributor to key digital-rights initiatives, she strives to drive impactful change, making digital spaces safer and more inclusive for all, especially women, girls and vulnerable communities. Conversations that drive social change through inclusive and sensitive technology and legal frameworks are some of her greatest interests.

I’m based in Cape Town, South Africa, and hold the position of Senior Manager for Engagement and Insights at the Digital Impact Alliance (DIAL). My role involves overseeing the Africa Data Leadership Initiative (ADLI), which is a peer-learning policy network created for African policymakers and data decision-makers. The initiative focuses on facilitating collaborative problem-solving and the development of strategies to include non-governmental stakeholders in the development and implementation of data policies. I have a diverse background in digital policy, communication, and political management, drawing on my experiences in the public sector and international development. My focus is on promoting effective governance and inclusive digital strategies. Previously, I served as a Data Economy Policy Advisor at GIZ, where I closely collaborated with the African Union and other African regional bodies to aid in the development of data governance policies. I have also provided consultation on responsible and inclusive AI research projects for the Global Partnership on AI and the Global Index on Responsible AI, following a fellowship with the Centre for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP).  

Rachel Magege is a lawyer based in Tanzania. She holds expertise in data protection law, investment law, alternative dispute resolution (ADR), digital and tech law, and regional data governance frameworks in Africa. She currently works in project development and implementation at Pollicy, with a heavy focus on data governance work to improve data practices and across Africa. Outside of work, she sits on the Board of Directors under the Tanzania Privacy Professionals Association LTD, managing the Professional Development Committee. Rachel is also a well-versed legal author, public speaker and developing expert in mediation and arbitration, holding certification in Fundamentals of Effective Negotiation from the Ministry of Justice in the United Kingdom. Notably, Rachel holds membership with several associations such as the Project Management Institute (Global and Tanzanian Chapters), Tanzania Women Lawyers Association (TAWLA) and has recently been appointed to serve under the Data Protection and Privacy Committee of the East Africa Law Society.

Président du réseau des jeunes parlementaires malagasy. Président fondateur de l'association AS RAMIM'S. Téchnicien supérieur. Député de Madagascar.

Saba Tiku is an AI researcher and youth advocate with a background in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Her work focuses on AI ethics, digital rights, and inclusive Internet governance. She has contributed to several global and regional initiatives, including the Pan-African Youth Ambassadors for Internet Governance (PAYAIG) as a facilitator, ICANN (as a Fellow for ICANN81 and ICANN83), and the Internet Society as a youth ambassador. Saba holds leadership roles at the Youth IGF Ethiopia and the Youth Coalition on Internet Governance (YCIG), and served on the UN IGF 2024 Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG), where she now co-leads youth engagement efforts to strengthen youth participation in global digital governance. Through these roles, she champions an inclusive, open, and secure Internet that empowers communities and protects rights across the African continent and beyond.

A disruptor at the intersection of art and social justice. I am deeply immersed in both the creative and digital space, with a strong personal and professional commitment to civic engagement and feminist movements. My work focuses on redefining dominant narratives through storytelling. I’ve successfully led and supported events, projects, and initiatives that champion inclusivity, amplify marginalized voices and advance freedom of expression and digital rights particularly across feminist and youth-led spaces.

Sophia Yusuph Kibila is a Tanzanian ICT Infrastructure Engineer with expertise in electronics, telecommunication, and digital systems. She holds a Master of Science in Electronics Engineering and IT from the University of Dar es Salaam and a Bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering from the Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology. With a strong foundation in digital infrastructure planning and implementation, Sophia is passionate about advancing inclusive, secure, and sustainable technology solutions. She brings technical rigor and collaborative leadership to multi-stakeholder processes, particularly in the areas of internet governance and ICT development across Africa.

Stephen Fosu co-founded Step Network, an organization dedicated to building community networks and promoting digital literacy in underserved areas. Passionate about technology and inclusivity, he has led the establishment of several community networks, including Samreboi Community Network, Kuntu Community Network, and Bruben Community Network, to bridge the digital divide in rural Ghana. He also heads the IT unit at Presbyterian Hospital, Donkorkrom, in the Eastern Region of Ghana.

As an Associate with Luminate's Africa Team, Tari contributes to building a robust pipeline of organizations aligning strategically with Luminate's objectives. She also coordinates the Partner Support efforts for the Africa Team. Tari is an experienced manager with expertise in leading social impact and development programs, development communications, program management, advocacy campaigns, fiscal transparency, participatory governance, and implementing open government principles. Before joining Luminate, she was with the Nigeria Open Government Partnership (OGP) Secretariat, where she provided technical assistance to various government institutions across Nigeria's 36 states under the $1.5 billion Federal Government and World Bank-assisted States Fiscal Transparency Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) Program for Results (PforR). Concurrently, she supported the Corporate Aairs Commission under the World Bank’s Fiscal Governance and Institutions Project (FGIP), to develop Nigeria’s public register of beneficial owners. She also supported the OGP Global Support Unit by facilitating global lesson-sharing programs among OGP Members.

Thoko Miya is a South African technology executive and digital policy strategist, currently serving as the CEO of GirlHype Coders Academy, where she leads nationally recognized programs that empower young women in underserved communities with digital skills, cybersecurity literacy, and entrepreneurship training.

She is the President and Chairperson of the Internet Society (ISOC) South Africa Chapter, and serves as the At-Large Structure (ALS) Representative to the ICANN African Regional At-Large Organisation (AFRALO). Thoko is an active contributor to global internet governance through her membership in the Consolidated Policy Working Group, the Universal Acceptance Working Group, and other ICANN policy bodies. Her qualifications include an Honours-level qualification in Business Administration from the University of Cape Town Graduate School of Business, a Bachelor of Technology in Journalism, and an Advanced Certification in Domain Name Systems. She is also a certified ISC2 Cybersecurity Educator, Cisco Networking Academy Instructor, and CompTIA Net Academy Instructor. Thoko’s work focuses on digital equity, last-mile connectivity, AI ethics, and multi-stakeholder internet governance. She operates at the intersection of innovation, gender, and development, advocating for a digitally inclusive future shaped by African voices. Her contributions are grounded in the interdisciplinary framework of AI in Society, emphasizing fairness, transparency, and digital rights. Advisor to the Africa IGF and African Youth IGF Processes, Miya is also a member of the ZAIGF- South African Internet Governance Multistakeholder Advisory Committee, and a 2025 TechWomen Fellowship Semi-Finalist. Thoko is a frequent speaker and advisor in global forums, sharing expertise on rural broadband, cybersecurity, youth leadership, data sovereignty, and gender-responsive digital policy. Her accolades include being named one of the 50 Most Inspiring Women in Tech (2024), receiving the Fabulous Woman of the Year Award (2019) from Carrol Boyes and the FabGirls Foundation, she has also been recognized as a Master Educator for the Technovation Challenge and Ambassador for the She++ Program. Thoko is a passionate mentor, public speaker, and community organizer. Her vision is to build an inclusive digital future where African voices—especially those of women and youth—shape the technologies and policies that define our world. With a deep commitment to equitable access to technology, Thoko is actively shaping conversations on how the internet and emerging technologies can better serve underserved populations. Her work emphasizes multi-stakeholder collaboration, local capacity building, and the ethical application of AI—particularly in the Global South. She is a recognized advocate for the ethical governance of AI and the digital economy, operating at the intersection of technology, policy, and social justice. A passionate community organizer and mentor, Miya is committed to building scalable, inclusive digital ecosystems and ensuring African women and youth are not only included—but are leading—conversations that shape the global internet. Miya's expertise lies in fostering gender-responsive policies, building scalable digital skilling models, and advancing last-mile connectivity. She has presented and advised in numerous high-level forums across Africa and globally, engaging with issues such as rural broadband, data sovereignty, cybersecurity, and the role of youth and women in shaping the future of the internet. Her contributions are grounded in the interdisciplinary framework of AI in Society, focusing on fairness, transparency, and digital rights.