WAICTANet Champions the Role of Technology in Governance and Electoral Integrity at TNCG 2024
The Technology, New Media, Citizens, and Governance (TNCG) Conference 2024 was a landmark event, bringing together experts from across Africa to discuss how technology can transform political engagement and governance on the continent. Among the distinguished participants was Peterking Quaye, Executive Director of the West Africa ICT Action Network (WAICTANet), who shared his insights on leveraging emerging technologies to address governance challenges in West Africa.
In response to the invitation, Peterking Quaye expressed his commitment to fostering digital transformation in the Mano River Union (MRU) region. He stated: “The invitation to join this distinguished panel at TNCG 2024 is a testament to the growing recognition of WAICTANet’s work in driving ICT-enabled governance and electoral integrity in West Africa. In the MRU region, technology offers immense potential to enhance democratic processes, combat corruption, and empower citizens. However, it is equally important to address challenges such as digital inequality and misinformation to ensure that these tools benefit everyone.”
During Breakout Session (B): “Emerging Technologies for Enhanced Governance and Electoral Integrity in Africa,” Quaye joined a dynamic panel of experts, including Geci Karuri-Sebina, Dr. Grace Githaiga, and Melanie Du Plessis. The session, moderated by Samson Itodo, explored the practical applications of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and big data in fostering transparent governance and credible electoral processes.
Reflecting on the role of technology in strengthening governance, Quaye stated: “In Liberia and the broader Mano River Union region, technology holds the key to addressing systemic governance issues. At WAICTANet, we are championing initiatives that use technology to enhance electoral transparency, streamline public service delivery, and bridge the gap between citizens and policymakers. These tools are not just innovations; they are necessities for inclusive governance in the digital age.”
Quaye highlighted ongoing efforts by WAICTANet to advance digital literacy and policy frameworks that enable ethical and impactful use of emerging technologies. He also underscored the importance of regional collaboration, pointing out that partnerships between nations and organizations are essential for addressing shared challenges such as misinformation, voter disenfranchisement, and data privacy.
The conference’s theme, “Technology: The Present and Future of Political Action in Africa,” resonated strongly with WAICTANet’s mission of empowering citizens through ICT. By participating in events like TNCG 2024, WAICTANet reinforces its commitment to leveraging technology for good governance and sustainable development.
Reflecting on the theme of TNCG 2024, Peterking Quaye shared a powerful perspective on the role of technology in democracy: “In a rapidly digitizing world, technology is no longer just a tool; it is a cornerstone of modern democracy. From enabling real-time civic engagement to enhancing the integrity of elections through, technology is reshaping the relationship between citizens and their governments. For regions like the Mano River Union, where governance challenges persist, adopting these tools is not optional—it is imperative. Yet, the success of this transformation depends on inclusive policies, robust digital infrastructures, and the collective will to use technology ethically and transparently.”
Quaye also highlighted the significance of collaborative efforts in advancing democracy,“Democracy thrives when citizens are empowered to participate meaningfully in governance. Technology provides the platform for this empowerment, bridging gaps in access and amplifying marginalized voices. However, it is a shared responsibility among governments, civil society, and the private sector to ensure that these advancements serve the collective good.”
An urgent need for multi-stakeholder engagement to ensure that Africa’s digital transformation benefits all its citizens. With leaders like Peterking Quaye at the forefront, the future of governance in Africa looks poised for meaningful change driven by innovation and inclusivity.
