National Internet Governance Forum
Internet for all, the Internet is a human right. In these modern times crafted by a new industrial revolution built on the bases of connected cyberspace
Internet for all, the Internet is a human right. In these modern times crafted by a new industrial revolution built on the bases of connected cyberspace, the internet is part and parcel of the multicultural social economic and political dynamic that shapes modern reality.
With more than 4billion Internet user’s n the world and 23 million users in Tanzania connecting the next billions is a challenge that has to align with the need of the times, the exponential rise of technology and its implications have a direct impact to the sustainability of our nation and as a people. Internet governance is a blueprint of guidance that can manage the sustainability and equity of internet for all.
Internet governance is defined as the development and application of shared principles, norms, rules, decision-making procedures, and programs that shape the evolution and use of the Internet. Though there is no agreeable definition of what internet governance is, it’s a continuous self-evolving phenomenon that calls for inclusion in shaping the internet as a whole.
The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is a multi-stakeholder forum for policy dialogue on issues of internet governance It brings together all stakeholders in the Internet governance debate, whether they represent governments, the private sector or civil society, including the technical and academic community, on an equal basis and through an open and inclusive process.
UTPC represents the civil society and is a pioneering force steering committee that oversees and coordinates the NIGF (National Internet Governance Forum) as we understand the importance of an open, accessible and healthy internet as a tool of media plurality and overall democratic processes.
Tanzania stands a better chance of benefitting more from internet resources, as a result of some of its organizations’ active participation in Internet Governance Forum-related activities.
A pivotal role played by UTPC, in its capacity as National Internet Governance Forum (NIGF) Secretariat Steering Committee in 2012, is a typically classic example given that its President, Mr. Kenneth Simbaya presided over the Dar es Salaam meeting on 12th July.
The one-day meeting, co-funded by Tanzania Communication and Regulatory Authority (TCRA), deliberated upon a wide range of such issues as the launching of National Backbone called cyber in Tanzania, to be shared among nine African countries.
Enacting of cybersecurity laws, the involvement of more stakeholders in the Steering Committee, Terms of Reference (ToR) for Secretariat’s smooth running and presentations made in Swahili for an enhanced participant’s understanding were key themes.
The aforesaid deliberations were based solely on four papers entitled “IGF Movement: Process and status in Tanzania”, presented by UTPC Executive Director, Mr. Abubakar Karsan and “National Backbone Status and last Mile Connectivity and Local Content”, presented by ICT Director, Dr. Zeipuna Yonah.
Also deliberated on are issues on “New Media in promoting Democracy” presented by Sahara Media Group Chair, Mr. Anthony Diallo and “Dot tz Domain: Awareness status and Way forward” presented by Eng. Abib Ntahigiye. Subsequently, as part of the way forward, it was resolved that the East Africa Internet Governance Forum (EAIGF) be held between 17th and 18th July 2012, in Nairobi, Kenya, where Mr. Diallo had presented NIGF report.
The 2013 NIGF was held in Dar es Salaam and major issues that were discussed are:-
- Cybersecurity in Tanzania
- Promotion of ICT for development
- Building the capacity of Tanzania in participating in various ICT related international forums
