Despite significant advances in the use of data globally, many countries across Africa are still lagging behind in harnessing data for social good.
Against this backdrop, many large and foreign technology companies have been able to dominate African markets through sophisticated technology and by taking advantage of weak regulatory environments. In some instances, in a bid to regain control, authoritarian African governments have begun to clamp down on digital platforms, in turn, impacting freedom of expression, digital inclusion, as well as access to information and markets.
Data has the ability to empower activists, civil society, private sector and governments to make better decisions and to promote social justice. There is an urgent need for an increased uptake in responsible and ethical use of data to solve some of the most pressing issues of our time.