Decolonising the Internet in Africa: Fostering Cultural Inclusivity in the Era of 4IR

This special issue on decolonising the internet in Africa aims to critically examine the intersections of digital technology, cultural representation, and inclusivity within the African context. By drawing on decolonial theories, we seek to highlight the profound implications of digital spaces on African societies. The selected papers comprehensively analyse how digital technologies can perpetuate colonial legacies or serve as powerful tools for cultural revitalisation and social empowerment. From promoting African languages on social media to scrutinising internet governance frameworks and addressing digital literacy in rural communities, these contributions highlight the urgent need for a more inclusive and equitable digital landscape. As Africa navigates the complexities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, it is imperative to ensure that digital advancements honour and uplift the continent’s rich cultural diversity and knowledge systems. This special issue, therefore, not only enriches the academic discourse but also offers practical strategies and policy recommendations for fostering a decolonised and inclusive internet that genuinely serves all Africans, from an African geospatial perspective. In this regard, the special issue contributes an African and decolonial-centred epistemological perspective of African internet studies, in terms of technological access, knowledge diversity, and languages, as well as cultural inclusivity.