A New Era for AFRINIC: New Board Elected, Charting a Course for Stability and Growth.

In a landmark moment for Africa’s digital landscape, the African Network Information Centre (AFRINIC) has successfully concluded its board elections, ushering in a new era of leadership. Following a period of unprecedented turmoil, the election of eight new board members marks a critical step toward restoring stability, transparency, and a renewed focus on Africa’s internet future.

The newly elected board members are:

• Seat 1: Abdelaziz Hilali
• Seat 2: Emmanuel Adewale Adedokun
• Seat 3: Kaleem Usmani
• Seat 4: Laurent Ntumba
• Seat 5: Carla Sanderson
• Seat 6: Fiona Asonga
• Seat 7: Ben Roberts
• Seat 8: Adewole David Ajao

Overcoming Past Struggles, Securing Africa’s Sovereignty

The successful election concludes a challenging chapter in AFRINIC’s history. For the past three years, the organization has grappled with significant governance issues, including a stalled board, internal lawsuits, and an inability to conduct operations effectively. These struggles threatened to undermine the very foundation of Africa’s digital sovereignty and the continent’s ability to manage its own crucial internet number resources. The void in leadership created by these disputes caused concern across the global internet community, placing Africa’s digital growth at a critical crossroads.

This election was more than a procedural requirement; it was a testament to the community’s resilience and commitment to a stable and independent internet for the continent. The new board members, with their diverse backgrounds and expertise, represent a fresh start—a chance to leave behind the disputes and focus on the core mission of serving the African internet community.

A Victory for Africa’s Digital Future

The election’s outcome is a victory for the millions of internet users across Africa. With a new and functioning board in place, AFRINIC can now move forward with confidence. The newly elected leaders are poised to tackle long-standing challenges, streamline operations, and advocate for Africa’s interests on the global stage of internet governance.

“This is a moment to celebrate the success and resilience of the African internet community,” said a leading voice in the industry. “The election of this new board is a powerful statement that Africa is taking control of its digital destiny. We look forward to a period of unprecedented collaboration and growth, as these leaders work to ensure a secure, open, and accessible internet for all Africans.”

The election results pave the way for a bright future where Africa’s internet infrastructure can grow unimpeded, fulfilling its potential as a catalyst for economic development, innovation, and social progress across the continent.

Source: https://election.afrinic.net/elected-candidate

About Author

Dr. Adebunmi Adeola Akinbo

Dr. Adebunmi Akinbo is a Researcher, Media Psychologist, Brand and Content Expert. He is an Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) Fellow, Member of Association of Cyber Forensics and Threat Investigators (ACFTI), Associate Member of the Computer Professional Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN), and a Senior Member of Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy & Management (CIPDM), He is passionate for information and solutions for ICT Challenges by the media for the global village.

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