Unlocking South Sudan’s Digital Potential: The Impact of IGF on Open Knowledge Access and Open Source Tools

On 10.October. 2023, South Sudan took a significant step towards realizing the dream of an inclusive digital future by hosting the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) under the theme “The Internet We Want: Empowering All South Sudanese People.” This momentous event held at the Hotel provided a platform for stakeholders from various sectors to come together and address the critical issue of digital access in a country where connectivity costs are among the highest in East Africa.

The IGF in South Sudan served as a rallying point to discuss, deliberate, and take action on the challenges of the digital age, with a particular focus on open knowledge access and open-source tools. Here’s what this event means for South Sudan and its journey toward digital inclusivity.

Digital Divide in South Sudan: A Stark Reality

The digital divide is an undeniable reality in South Sudan. According to Datareportal, as of January 2023, only 773,400 South Sudanese individuals were online, while a staggering 10.22 million people remained offline, representing approximately 93% of the total population. In the age of digital transformation, such a significant portion of the population left behind is a cause for concern.

One of the most striking statistics is the gender gap in digital access. Of the 450,300 South Sudanese who used at least one social media platform, 27.4% were female, and 72.6% were male. This disparity highlights the urgency of addressing the gender digital divide, ensuring that women and girls have equal access to digital opportunities.

IGF: A Catalyst for Change

The 2023 South Sudan IGF provided a unique opportunity to address the digital divide head-on and its impact on open knowledge access and open-source tools. This event was a call to action, bringing together government representatives, civil society organizations, tech innovators, and advocates for open knowledge.

1. Empowering Grassroots Communities: The IGF highlighted the need to empower grassroots communities by reducing the cost of internet connectivity. It’s a challenge that South Sudan acknowledges, and through this event, stakeholders could deliberate on policies and initiatives that make connectivity more affordable and accessible for all.

2. Promoting Open Source Tools: Open source tools are a vital component of bridging the digital divide. They enable cost-effective solutions and innovation that can be harnessed for the benefit of all South Sudanese. The IGF was a platform to discuss the importance of promoting and using open-source technologies to address community challenges.

3. Advocating for Digital Inclusion: The IGF served as a platform for advocacy. It allowed stakeholders to underscore the importance of digital inclusion in the national agenda. South Sudan can no longer afford to leave the majority of its population offline, and this event was a clear signal that change is on the horizon.

The Road Ahead: A Commitment to Digital Inclusivity

The 2023 South Sudan IGF was more than just an event; it was a declaration of intent. It signified South Sudan’s commitment to bridging the digital divide, enabling open knowledge access, and leveraging open-source tools to transform communities. However, the real work begins now.

South Sudan must translate the discussions and resolutions of the IGF into tangible actions. It is a journey that will require collaboration between government, the private sector, civil society, and international partners. The focus should be on reducing internet connectivity costs, promoting digital literacy, and fostering innovation through open-source tools.

In conclusion, the 2023 South Sudan IGF was a beacon of hope in a digital age, illuminating the path to digital inclusivity and open knowledge access. South Sudan has recognized the challenges, and now it is time to embrace the opportunities that the digital world offers. By bridging the digital divide, South Sudan can ensure that the internet truly becomes a tool for empowerment and transformation, reaching every South Sudanese citizen, and ushering in an era of innovation and development.