The Durban University of Technology (DUT) played host to the South African Internet Governance Forum (ZAIGF) 2025.
The ZAIGF 2025 is co-hosted by the Internet Society South Africa Chapter in partnership with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, the South African Domain Name Authority, the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government and the ZAIGF Multi-stakeholder Committee.
Under the theme: Reviewing South Africa’s Internet Governance Progress in the Context of WSIS+20, the event took place at the DUT Hotel School and Conference Centre, from 6 May 2025 to 8 May 2025.
The ZAIGF 2025 provides a critical national platform for reflecting on two decades of South Africa’s digital transformation and internet governance journey. It brings together diverse stakeholders to discuss the country’s progress, emerging challenges, and strategic priorities in shaping an inclusive and rights-based digital future.
The opening and welcome remarks were delivered by the Executive Dean: Faculty of Accounting and Informatics of the Durban University of Technology, Oludayo O. Olugbara.
He extended a dynamic welcome to all participants of the 2025 South African Internet Governance Forum (ZAIGF).
“As we celebrate 20 years of digital transformation in South Africa, the National Internet Governance Forum, through the ZAIGF 2025, is reviewing its digital transformation progress in the context of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20). This review is a key milestone that aims to reflect on the digital future of South Africa and to contribute to global digital policy discourse,” he said.
He further indicated that the 2025 South African Internet Governance Forum (ZAIGF) has created a platform for inclusive, multilateral, and multistakeholder discussions on internet governance issues within the Southern Africa region.
Prof Olugbara shared that while the internet provides boundless opportunities, it inherently comes with manfold security challenges, particularly with the proliferation of Internet of Things devices, digital access, cyberattacks, and the voices of the youth to co-create toward addressing the multifarious challenges of the Internet.
“This event provides opportunities with policymakers, debating pressing issues and showcasing meaningful results. It serves as a launchpad for real action that speaks louder than voice,” he said.
Prof Olugbara also thanked the key partners, ZADNA, the DCDT and the ZAIGF multi-stakeholder committee for making this event a big success. Sharing the purpose of the day was Mr Luvo Grey, Deputy Chairperson of the ZAIGF Multi-Stakeholder Committee.
“The purpose of this gathering is to elevate the South Africa youth in shaping how the internet evolves, not just as a tool of communication but as a force of economic transformation, political participation and cultural liberation. This forum will create space for youth dialogue on the future of how we govern the internet in South Africa and beyond. Secondly, it is to equip young people with the knowledge, tools and networks to influence the policy processes that govern our digital lives. Thirdly, to bridge the gap between government, academia, civil society and industry. Lastly, to craft a youth informed agenda that the internet remains open, inclusive and secured for generations to come,” said Grey.
Grey’s sterling message was followed by a riveting keynote address by the Director General of Communications and Digital Technologies, Ms Nonkqubela Jordan-Dyani.
She delivered a keynote address titled “Empowering the Next Generation: Youth at the Heart of Internet Governance”. This address highlighted on the youth involvement in shaping the future of the internet and ensuring it serves as a tool for social and economic progress.
A highlight of the day included a robust panel discussions on the power and perils of social media.
It was an exhilarating moment when the youth inventors from various universities, sponsored by Honor, showcased their innovative inventions which saw DUT’s Siyathokoza Malunga winning this competition with a Honor Pad x8a. He invented an app for virtual student cards and student hub for events broadcast.
Honors government relations manager, Slindokuhke Mbuyisa said Honor was very impressed with all the submissions of the day and hopes that Malunga utilises his prize and makes his invention a great success.
The day concluded with a sterling message from the Deputy Chairperson of the ZAIGF Multi-Stakeholder Committee, Ms Thoko Miya. She is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Girlhype, a non-profit organisation that aims to empower girls and youth in ICT.
She spoke about making girls to become tomorrow’s inquisitive problem-solvers, collaborative leaders, and innovative entrepreneurs. All in all, day one became the interactive space for youth dialogue on the future governing the internet in South Africa and beyond.
Day two saw a sterling welcome talk given by DUT’s Professor Fulufhelo Nemavhola, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Engagement, who spoke about Artificial Intelligence and ethics, saying no single sector can solve digital challenges alone. He encouraged partnerships and breaking down silos. He also stressed that all students from rural areas or townships must benefit from the digital age.
Another highlight of day two was the speech delivered by the Honourable Mondli Gungubele, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, who gave a talk on the global context of WSIS+20 and what it means for South Africa. He shared insights into the benefits and challenges that come with Artificial Intelligence and how it affects the country’s future.
More excitement followed when he embarked on a walkabout at DUT innovative tech labs and exhibition stands, showcasing cutting-edge solutions and initiatives. He eagerly listened to what the tech labs entail which is teaching the practical components to the students. He reiterated that the government should invest in funding and supporting such innovations in order to address societal challenges.
Other charismatic talks were given by Ms Palesa Legoze, Chairperson of the ZADNA Board who set the tone for the day’s discussions. Mr Mpilo Sibiya, Chief Director of Provincial ICT from the KwaZulu-Natal Premier’s Office, highlighted KwaZulu-Natal’s digital strategy, which aims to improve services, grow the economy, and close the digital divide.
The South African Internet Governance Forum (ZAIGF) 2025 concludes on Thursday, 8 May 2025.
Pictured: The Honourable Mondli Gungubele, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, who gave a talk on the global context of WSIS+20 and what it means for South Africa.
Waheeda Peters/Simangele Zuma/Siphokazi Dlamini
