Session 1C: Digital Access and Participation
October 29 @ 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Session Details
Date: 29 October 2024
Time: 11:30 – 13:00
Format: Workshop
Venue: Members Lounge (Huawei), Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct
Host: Amandla.mobi
Facilitator: Palesa Ramolefo
Speakers
- Deekay Sibanda, Accountability Lab
- Gabriella Razzano, OpenUp
- Loise Mboo, Open Institute
Session Overview
The “Digital Access and Participation” session at CTIF24 aims to focus in on the critical issues surrounding digital inclusion and its impact on civic engagement in responding to the question: #underthehood of Democracy & Governance: Are we making any progress?.
As technology continues to evolve and shape our world, ensuring equitable digital access and fostering active participation have been deemed crucial for empowering communities and enhancing democratic processes. But what is it that we, through civic tech (or other means), have achieved so far in Africa towards concretely improving access or enhancing participation? Are there specific good or bad stories to tell and learn from? If we are not as far as we would like, then why? And is any re-framing or re-strategizing needed around this issue? This session will consider the factors influencing progress in digital access and explore how participation coudl be increased to drive positive change.