The West Africa School of Internet Governance (WASIG) is a flagship capacity-building initiative aimed at empowering professionals, policymakers, researchers, and civil society actors with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage effectively in internet governance processes at national, regional, and global levels. Since its inception in 2018, WASIG has trained over 1,600 alumni across West Africa, including Members of Parliament, Ministers, regulators, and industry leaders, developing a new generation of digital governance advocates.

Through expert-led training, interactive discussions, and real-world case studies, the program covers critical topics such as cybersecurity, digital rights, data protection, emerging technologies, and policy development. WASIG has not only strengthened local expertise but also significantly contributed to policy advocacy and decision-making processes at national and regional levels.

The impact of WASIG is evident in its alumni, who actively shape digital policies, participate in global internet governance forums, and drive inclusive and rights-based digital transformation. By promoting multi-stakeholder engagement and regional collaboration, WASIG is playing an essential role in advancing digital governance and sustainable development across West Africa.

https://waigf.ecowas.int/about-wasig/

• Africa

• Youth
• Women
• People with disabilities
• The unemployed
• Remote and rural communities
• Government officials, policymakers, regulators, civil society organizations, academics, researchers, media professionals, private sector leaders, youth, women in tech, and representatives from international and regional organizations involved in digital governance, cybersecurity, and ICT policy development.

Government officials, members of parliement, policymakers, civil society advocates, academics, researchers, media professionals, private sector leaders, youth, women in tech, and representatives from international and regional organizations involved in digital governance and ICT policy development.

The West Africa School of Internet Governance (WASIG) ensures sustainability through a combination of strategic partnerships, institutional support, and alumni engagement. The program is backed by key stakeholders, including governments, international organizations (such as ECOWAS, ICANN, ISOC, and Smart Africa), academia, and the private sector, providing ongoing financial and technical support. Additionally, WASIG’s alumni network of over 1,600 trained professionals actively contributes to the program’s sustainability by mentoring new participants, advocating for internet governance policies, and leading national and regional initiatives. The hybrid training model, which combines in-person and online learning, ensures cost efficiency while maximizing outreach.

The West Africa School of Internet Governance (WASIG) actively promotes WSIS values by ensuring inclusive, transparent, and participatory digital governance in West Africa. The program aligns with the WSIS Action Lines, particularly in capacity building, information and knowledge sharing, digital inclusion, and policy development. Through its multi-stakeholder approach, WASIG empowers policymakers, civil society, academia, and the private sector to engage in internet governance discussions that uphold human rights, freedom of expression, and access to information. By training over 1,600 alumni, including government officials, regulators, and digital rights advocates, WASIG contributes to the creation of people-centered, inclusive, and development-oriented information societies, as envisioned by WSIS. Additionally, the program advances gender equality and youth participation in ICT policy, ensuring underrepresented voices are part of decision-making processes. By strengthening regional collaboration and advocating for sustainable digital policies, WASIG plays a crucial role in promoting WSIS principles across West Africa.