WAIGF Youth Forum
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, digital inclusion, and innovation across the region.
The forum brings together passionate youth from across West Africa to discuss, debate, and advance solutions on the Internet governance issues that affect their present and future.
Apply for the 2026 Youth Track
About the WAIGF Youth Forum
The WAIGF Youth Forum is a dynamic space for young people in West Africa to shape the future of the Internet. It is designed to ensure that youth are not only consulted, but actively engaged as contributors to digital policy, innovation, and regional dialogue.
More than a discussion space, the Youth Forum is a platform for learning, collaboration, leadership development, and action. It connects young innovators, advocates, and professionals who are committed to building a safer, more inclusive, and more resilient digital future for West Africa.
Our Mission
To empower and amplify the voices of young people in West Africa by equipping them with the knowledge, tools, and platform to participate meaningfully in Internet governance at national, regional, and global levels.
Why It Matters
Africa is home to one of the world’s youngest populations. It is therefore essential that youth perspectives are integrated into digital policies, governance frameworks, and innovation ecosystems. The WAIGF Youth Forum ensures that young West Africans are not just beneficiaries of digital transformation, but co-creators of it.
Who Can Join?
Eligibility
- Youth aged 15–35 from ECOWAS Member States
- Students, innovators, digital advocates, and young professionals
- Young people interested in Internet and digital development
Areas of Interest
- Technology and innovation
- Public policy and Internet governance
- Human rights and digital inclusion
- Cybersecurity and online safety
- Education and digital entrepreneurship
What We Value
- Curiosity and commitment
- Regional diversity
- Collaborative spirit
- Youth leadership and initiative
What We Do
Capacity Building
We train and mentor young individuals in Internet governance, digital rights, cybersecurity, policymaking, and digital transformation.
Policy Engagement
Youth participants contribute to policy dialogues, declarations, and recommendations that inform national, regional, and international governance processes.
Youth-Led Events
We host youth-focused sessions, town halls, consultations, and innovation spaces during the main WAIGF and through dedicated youth programming.
Global Representation
Participants are supported to engage in broader platforms such as the Africa Youth IGF, the Global IGF, and other international digital policy spaces.
Community Building
The forum connects young innovators, advocates, and activists across West Africa to build long-term collaboration and shared action.
Action-Oriented Leadership
The WAIGF Youth Forum is not just about dialogue — it is about building a generation of digital leaders who can influence change.
Multistakeholder Model
The WAIGF Youth Forum operates within the broader multistakeholder model of the West Africa Internet Governance Forum, which brings together governments, civil society organizations, academia, private sector representatives, and technical communities to address Internet-related public policy issues in the region.
Get Involved
Apply for the Youth Track
Join a growing network of young West Africans committed to shaping the future of the Internet.
Apply for 2026Explore the Programme
Learn more about the themes, sessions, and opportunities available through the youth track.
View ProgrammeJoin the Community
Connect with other young innovators, policy enthusiasts, and digital leaders across West Africa.
Get Involved