As digital technology continues to spread across the continent, questions are being asked about what this means for Africa’s future.
As digital technology continues to spread across the continent, questions are being asked about what this means for Africa’s future.
Alongside tech booms and fast-growing start-up success stories, some African governments stand accused of internet freedom crack downs, digital surveillance and human rights restrictions.
Nations now have access to advanced tools such as facial recognition and license plate readers. Without oversight or safeguards, technology experts and human rights activists agree that this technology is dangerously unregulated.
As more Africans go online, will African governments focus on covert monitoring of its citizens and exerting control over their access to social media? Or will safeguarding digital rights prevent progressive nations becoming ‘digital dictatorships’?
