Tanzania to host major internet governance forum

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA will for the first time host the 14th Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) from the 29th to 31st of May this year, with more than 1000 participants expected to attend.

Speaking to reporters in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, the Director of ICT Infrastructure at the Ministry, Engineer Leo Magomba, said the forum will convene stakeholders from across the continent to discuss pressing issues in digital governance.

He said discussions will focus on establishing robust digital infrastructures and frameworks for data governance, ensuring privacy, protection and sovereignty.

“Sessions will explore the ethical, legal and societal implications of AI, blockchain, IoT and other emerging technologies shaping Africa’s digital landscape,” he said.

Magomba further said that experts will delve into strategies for combating cyber threats, enhancing online safety and building trust in digital platforms, where topics will address barriers to affordable and reliable internet access across Africa, focusing on gender inclusion, infrastructure and digital literacy.

Discussions will centre on fostering collaboration among African nations and stakeholders to strengthen digital governance and policy frameworks.

He said on Africa May 29 there will be a platform for young leaders to discuss their role in shaping internet governance and digital policy in Africa.

He said the main objective of the forum is to promote policy and technological cooperation among African nations in building inclusive digital systems that address development needs, security and the rights of internet users.

The forum, scheduled to take place at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam, will be held under the theme “Empowering Africa’s Digital Future.”

Meanwhile, Tanzanians have been urged to report all cybercrime incidents, including hacking and online fraud, to the country’s official cybercrime authorities to enable effective investigation and prosecution of offenders.

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Speaking at the same event, Yusuph Kileo, a renowned cybersecurity and digital forensics expert, highlighted the growing threat of cybercrime in Tanzania.

He called on citizens to make use of the Cyber Crime Unit, a government established body under the Ministry of Information, Communication and Information Technology, to report any suspicious or criminal digital activity.

“Hacking cases and other cybercrime should not be shared only on social media platforms for public sympathy. They must be reported through proper legal channels to the authorities who are trained and equipped to handle them. This is essential for timely response and accountability,” he said.

Kileo emphasised that effective cybersecurity is not solely the responsibility of government agencies, saying that public cooperation is a critical component in building a safer digital environment.

“Many cases go unreported because victims fear embarrassment or lack confidence in the system, but silence only empowers the criminals,” he said.

The expert also stressed the need for digital literacy campaigns, especially in rural and vulnerable communities, where online scams and misinformation are more rampant.

Kileo urged Tanzanians to act as the first line of defence in the fight against cybercrime by staying informed, cautious and proactive in reporting threats.