Airtel champions inclusive digital policies at AfIGF 2025

DAR ES SALAAM: The 14th African Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) kicked off this week in Dar es Salaam, placing Tanzania at the centre of a vital continental conversation on digital transformation. The forum is bringing together governments, civil society organisations, and technology stakeholders, the forum focuses on shaping policies that govern Africa’s rapidly evolving digital …

DAR ES SALAAM: The 14th African Internet Governance Forum (AfIGF) kicked off this week in Dar es Salaam, placing Tanzania at the centre of a vital continental conversation on digital transformation.

The forum is bringing together governments, civil society organisations, and technology stakeholders, the forum focuses on shaping policies that govern Africa’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Among the strongest voices emerging from the private sector is Airtel Tanzania, which is advocating for a future-focused, inclusive approach to digital governance.

Speaking during the forum, Airtel Tanzania’s Director of Communications and Regulatory Affairs, Ms Beatrice Singano, underscored the urgent need to reform regulatory frameworks to keep pace with technological advances.

“We can’t shape the future with yesterday’s policies,” she said. “Technology is moving fast—AI, data flows, spectrum allocation—and unless regulation keeps pace, we risk leaving millions behind.”

Ms Singano warned that outdated or rigid policies are becoming barriers to innovation and inclusive growth, especially for emerging tech entrepreneurs, cross-border platforms, and underserved communities. She called for the adoption of agile governance models such as regulatory sandboxes and public-private innovation labs to test and scale digital solutions responsibly.

“Airtel is not here to make noise,” she added. “We’re here to learn, to listen, and to ensure the private sector is involved from the start—not as an afterthought.”

Apart from policy discussions, Airtel is also showcasing its contribution to the digital ecosystem through programmes such as SMARTWASOMI and Fursa Lab, which promote digital literacy and equip youth with employable tech skills.

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The company also highlighted its ongoing partnership with the Universal Communications Service Access Fund (UCSAF) to expand mobile broadband coverage in underserved areas.

Under the theme “Empowering Africa’s Digital Future,” this year’s AfIGF places emphasis on collaboration between public and private sectors in bridging the digital divide.

Airtel’s participation, marked by both advocacy and on-ground initiatives, reinforces the call for private sector inclusion in digital governance to build systems that are smart, inclusive, and sustainable.

As the week-long forum continues, Dar es Salaam is not only hosting policy discussions but also witnessing a growing consensus that Africa’s digital future will require trust, cooperation, and bold leadership from both governments and the business community