By Clifford Agugoesi, Editor-in-Chief
The International Institute of Communications (IIC) has said that it is returning to sub-Saharan Africa for its next forum, to be hosted by the Botswana Communications Regulatory Authority (BOCRA) and working in partnership with the Communications Regulators’ Association of Southern Africa (CRASA). The meeting will take place in Gaborone in September, Cyber Era NG learns exclusively. Registrations are ongoing.
The Director-General at IIC, Ms. Lynn Robinson shared the information with us over email.
“Our thanks go to Chairperson Tefo Modise Setlhare and Chief Executive Martin Mokgware – they and their excellent team are looking forward to welcoming the IIC community and facilitating fruitful discussions,” disclosed Ms. Robinson.
The event comprises:
Tuesday 10 September: afternoon Regional Regulators Forum
Regulatory evolution and re-engineering – what are the key pillars for success in the digital era? Aligning policy and regulation to support the digital economy and digital transformation for all.
Tuesday 10 September: evening Networking Reception at the Hilton Garden Inn
Wednesday 11 – Thursday 12 September: Botswana Forum
Themes for discussion include:
- Tackling affordability to close the digital usage gaps in Africa: policy & regulatory levers (data plans, price floors, handsets)
- International connectivity: submarine cables, LEO satellites, terrestrial fibre. Competition and open access policies, regulatory harmonisation, regional collaboration
- Efficient methods for the assignment of high demand spectrum
- Media literacy and digital skills policy: regulatory reforms, educational integration, public awareness and engagement
- Impact of new media and digital platforms on traditional broadcasting: content development, distribution and consumption
- E-Commerce and e-services: enhancing consumer protection, data privacy, and trust to support economic growth, innovation and trade
- Critical infrastructure security: reform, resilience and collaboration
- AI governance – Africa at the crossroads
Wednesday 11 September: Excursion and Dinner
Robinson stated that the detailed agenda and speaker profiles will be announced shortly.
