A new pan-African movement, AfroFrequency, was officially launched on September 22, 2026, in New York, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The initiative aims to bring together artists, technologists, journalists, researchers, jurists, civil society actors, and policymakers to discuss the challenges and opportunities of emerging technologies in Africa. This launch marks a significant step towards creating a more inclusive conversation around the future of technology on the continent.
AfroFrequency recognizes that the technological choices affecting Africa should not be defined solely by engineers, tech companies, regulators, and governments. The movement seeks to integrate cultural, media, and civil society actors into discussions on the uses, impacts, and governance of technologies. By doing so, AfroFrequency aims to ensure that the development and deployment of emerging technologies in Africa are more representative and responsive to the needs of its people.
The initiative comprises three main programs. The Frequency Sessions will organize meetings in Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Lagos, bringing together professionals from diverse sectors. The Frequency Studio will develop film, journalism, residency, and laboratory projects focused on African experiences related to technological change. These projects will provide a platform for African voices to be heard and for innovative solutions to be showcased.
AfroFrequency's partnership with M20 highlights the need to strengthen accountability mechanisms around the development and deployment of artificial intelligence in Africa. The organization also aims to enhance the capacity of African media to cover these issues. By contributing to the debates on AI governance, AfroFrequency seeks to ensure that the benefits of emerging technologies are equitably distributed and that their risks are mitigated.
After its launch in New York, AfroFrequency plans to expand its network across Africa, with a priority focus on the communities of Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Lagos. The organization intends to collaborate with tech companies, cultural institutions, universities, media outlets, civil society organizations, research centers, and policymakers. This collaborative approach will enable AfroFrequency to build a robust and diverse network of stakeholders working towards a common goal.
AfroFrequency's Festival will annually bring together performances, exhibitions, demonstrations, stories, and debates around the works of the Frequency Studio and Sessions. This festival will provide a unique opportunity for African artists, technologists, and innovators to showcase their work and engage with a broader audience. By celebrating African creativity and innovation, AfroFrequency aims to inspire a new generation of leaders and change-makers.
As AfroFrequency continues to grow and evolve, it is likely to have a significant impact on the conversation around emerging technologies in Africa. By amplifying African voices and promoting inclusive decision-making, AfroFrequency can help shape a more equitable and sustainable technological future for the continent. The organization's success will depend on its ability to build and maintain a diverse and engaged network of stakeholders.
Key points
- AfroFrequency aims to integrate cultural, media, and civil society actors into discussions on emerging technologies in Africa.
- The initiative comprises three main programs: Frequency Sessions, Frequency Studio, and the AfroFrequency Festival.
- AfroFrequency plans to expand its network across Africa, with a priority focus on Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Lagos.
