Articles by Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA)
State surveillance stifling democratic participation in Africa
The increased use of surveillance on targeted citizens is undermining African citizens’ digital rights and hindering their willingness to meaningfully participate in democratic processes.
Leveraging the digital space to combat human trafficking
Through its study of the role of the internet in human trafficking, the African Legal Think Tank on Women’s Rights realised it’s possible to use the same technology to curb the illegal practice.
Weak cellphone device security exposes millions to data rights violations
Investigations by Privacy International expose cellphone manufacturer TECNO’s weaknesses in protecting users’ privacy and security at risk.
Taxes on internet usage slow down ICT growth
A look at digital taxes enforced in a number of African countries shows that internet services become less accessible to the public and the taxes result in the obstruction of citizens’ digital rights.
Online privacy rights steadily being chipped away
The enactment of regressive laws and policies facilitating surveillance and the collection of biometric data is undermining privacy rights across Africa.
Uganda scrapping of OTT ‘sin’ tax is short-lived celebration
After failing to raise the revenue it had anticipated, Uganda removes the Over The Top Tax it had imposed on social media use and introduces a levy on internet data instead.
Malawi calls on public to review data protection law
A review of Malawi’s long awaited Data Protection and Privacy Bill shows there are a number of clauses that hinder freedom of expression and access to information.
Burundian president has mixed media freedom scorecard
A year into his rule, Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye has taken several corrective measures, but has yet to make meaningful decisions to transform the restrictive media freedom and civic space.