From September 30 to October 1, 2026, Paradigm Initiative (PIN) and the Association for Social Communication and Information for Development (ACSIS-Tchad) are hosting the Digital Policy Engagement Series (DiPES) in N'Djamena, Chad. The event brings together institutional actors and civil society members to discuss personal data protection, digital governance, and strengthening Chad's digital legal and institutional framework. The meeting aims to create a digital environment that benefits the population while protecting their rights.
Moussa Séné, representing Paradigm Initiative, stated that the goal is to build a digital environment that allows African populations to access opportunities while enjoying their rights. He emphasized the need to strengthen the capacities of actors and ensure that digital laws are compliant with human rights. Séné noted that digital rights are simply human rights in the digital age. He stressed that laws and regulations must be put in place to protect citizens' digital rights.
Two major texts were examined during the discussions: the law on the protection of personal data and the law on cybercrime and cybersecurity. Participants analyzed these laws in light of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Malabo Convention, and African Union instruments. The analysis aimed to identify areas for improvement and ensure that Chad's digital laws align with international standards.
The event's discussions are expected to yield recommendations that will inform the development of Chad's future Digital Code. Mahamat Tidjani, representing ACSIS-Tchad, noted that Chad is one of the first African countries to have ratified the Malabo Convention. However, he expressed concern that despite having laws in place, their implementation is challenging. Tidjani called for sustainable collaboration between institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders.
Tidjani emphasized that a two-day training session is insufficient to master the complexities of digital rights and personal data protection. He stressed the need for ongoing collaboration and capacity-building to ensure that stakeholders are equipped to address these issues effectively. The participants at the DiPES event are expected to share their expertise and experiences to develop practical solutions.
The discussions at the DiPES event are taking place in an hotel in N'Djamena, bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders. The event is part of a broader effort to promote digital governance and human rights in Chad. By engaging with institutional actors and civil society members, the organizers aim to create a more inclusive and equitable digital environment.
The outcome of the DiPES event is expected to contribute to the development of a more comprehensive digital policy framework in Chad. The recommendations and insights generated during the discussions will inform the development of the country's future Digital Code. Ultimately, the goal is to create a digital environment that promotes human rights, protects personal data, and fosters sustainable development.
Key points
- Chad's stakeholders gather to discuss data protection and digital governance
- The event aims to create a digital environment that benefits the population while protecting their rights
- Recommendations from the event will inform the development of Chad's future Digital Code
