WAIGF 2026 Opens in Freetown, Focusing on Digital Policy

Sierra Leone inaugurated the 18th West Africa Internet Governance Forum (WAIGF 2026) on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at the Miatta Conference Centre in Freetown. 

This five-day event convenes regional stakeholders—including policymakers, regulators, private sector leaders, technical experts, civil society, and youth representatives—to address the future of internet governance, digital inclusion, and emerging technologies in West Africa. 

The selection of Sierra Leone as host, particularly while President Dr. Julius Maada Bio holds the Chairmanship of ECOWAS, positions the nation as a key hub for regional digital policy dialogue. 

This reflects the country’s increasing commitment to fostering regional cooperation, digital transformation, and technology-driven development across West Africa. 

In her keynote address, Madam Salima Bah, Minister of Communication, Technology and Innovation, advocated for enhanced regional collaboration in defining Africa's digital trajectory. 

She stressed that challenges such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data governance, and digital inclusion necessitate a coordinated regional strategy rather than isolated national solutions.