WELCOME
Empowering the next generation of digital leaders, the WAIGF Youth Forum provides a platform for young West Africans to actively participate in shaping internet policy
and development.
Apply for the 2025 Youth Track
The WAIGF Youth Forum is a dynamic space for young people in West Africa to shape the future of the internet. We bring together passionate youth from across the region to discuss, debate, and drive solutions on internet governance issues that matter to us. Empowering the next generation of digital leaders, the WAIGF Youth Forum provides a platform for young West Africans to actively participate in shaping internet policy and development. “Your voice matters! The WAIGF Youth Forum is where young people in West Africa come together to learn, collaborate, and advocate for a better internet for all.
Join the WAIGF Youth Forum and connect with other young innovators and activists across West Africa. We’re working together to address internet challenges and create positive change.
The WAIGF Youth Forum is more than just talk – it’s about action. We’re building a community of young leaders who are passionate about making a difference in the digital space.
Our Mission
To empower and amplify the voices of young people in West Africa by providing them with the knowledge, tools, and platform to participate meaningfully in Internet governance at the national, regional, and global levels.
Who Can Join?
Youth aged 15–35 from ECOWAS Member States
Students, innovators, digital advocates, and young professionals interested in Internet and digital development.
Young people with interest in technology, policy, human rights, education, cybersecurity, and digital entrepreneurship
What We Do
With Africa being home to one of the world’s youngest populations, it is vital that youth perspectives are integrated into digital policies and innovations. The WAYIGF ensures that young West Africans are not just beneficiaries but also co-creators of a safe, inclusive, and innovative digital space
Capacity Building: We train and mentor young individuals in Internet governance, digital rights, cybersecurity, and policymaking.
Policy Engagement: Youths actively contribute to policy dialogues and declarations that influence national, regional, and international Internet governance processes.
Youth-Led Events: We host youth-specific sessions, town halls, and innovation challenges during the main WAIGF and in standalone youth forums.
Global Representation: Participants are prepared to take part in larger platforms like the Africa Youth IGF, Global IGF, and other international digital policy spaces.
Register for WASIG 2025 hereMultistakeholder model
The West African Internet Governance Forum (WAIGF) is a regional initiative that brings together various stakeholders to discuss and address internet-related issues in West Africa. It serves as a collaborative platform for governments, civil society organizations, academia, private sector representatives, and technical communities to engage in meaningful dialogue concerning Internet governance.
