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VoPIT Podcast

VoPIT Podcast

By VoPIT Podcast

Imagine putting people at the center of policy making processes — not just by designing policies with their needs in mind, but engaging directly with them throughout the design and implementation process.

In just 30 minutes, we bring you insightful interviews with public interest technologists and guest experts on such pressing public interest issues as social justice, inequality and internet rights, the digital transformation, social change, the environmental justice, and more.
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S01 E05 | Laws, Policies, and the Digital Economy: Insights from Africa | Ridwan Oloyede

VoPIT PodcastMay 29, 2023

00:00
39:31
S01 E05 | Laws, Policies, and the Digital Economy: Insights from Africa | Ridwan Oloyede

S01 E05 | Laws, Policies, and the Digital Economy: Insights from Africa | Ridwan Oloyede

Welcome to an exciting edition of "The Voices of Public Interest Technology Podcast" with your host, Oarabile Mudongo. Today, we delve into the captivating world of Digital Africa: Exploring the Intersection of Laws, Policies, and the Digital Economy. Brace yourself for a thought-provoking journey that unveils the future of Africa's digital landscape.


Ever pondered what lies ahead for Africa's digital economy? How are the continent's distinct perspectives on laws and policies are shaping innovation in the digital realm? Prepare to have your curiosity satiated.


According to a groundbreaking report from Google and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Africa's Internet economy has the potential to contribute a staggering 5.2% to the continent's GDP by 2025, amounting to a remarkable $180 billion infusion into its economy. As Africa's digital landscape expands at an unprecedented pace, it is accompanied by a host of legal and policy challenges that demand exploration and understanding. The future of Africa is calling – are we ready to answer?


Joining us as a special guest is none other than Ridwan Oloyede, Co-founder at Tech Hive Advisory and co-author of the groundbreaking book, "Fake AI" With his expertise at the Data Protection Unit of the Council of Europe, Ridwan specializes in Data Protection, Privacy, Cyber Law, and much more. His work at the intersection of regulatory compliance, digital ethics, technology policy, and digital health places him at the forefront of navigating the evolving digital landscape.


Together, we embark on a captivating exploration of the dynamic African digital economy. Prepare to gain insights, unravel complexities, and discover the extraordinary potential that awaits the continent.


Tune in and join us on this enlightening episode of "The Voices of Public Interest Technology Podcast." Let us unlock the possibilities that lie within Africa's digital horizons.


Follow us on Twitter @VoPITPodcast where you can ask the host questions, or email info@vopitpodcast.africa for topic suggestions and compliments and general inquiries.

May 29, 202339:31
S01 EP04 | Using Code to Enhance Transparency & Accountability in Govt & Tech | Celso Bessa

S01 EP04 | Using Code to Enhance Transparency & Accountability in Govt & Tech | Celso Bessa

Welcome to The Voices of Public Interest Technology Podcast with Oarabile Mudongo. In this episode, we explore the exciting topic of "Beyond the Law: Using Code to Enhance Transparency and Accountability in the Public Sector and Tech Industry".


Joining me today is renowned Technologist and Consultant Celso Bessa, a developer and data scientist with a deep interest in technology for social change, and human rights defense. Celso will share his insights and experience on how we can leverage the power of code to create a more transparent and honest public interest tech ecosystem.


We'll discuss the challenges of achieving transparency and accountability in the public interest tech industry and explore innovative ways to address these issues. As we navigate the complex intersection of technology and society, it's essential to stay informed and engaged.


Don't miss this insightful conversation on The Voices of Public Interest Technology Podcast.


Follow us on Twitter @VoPITPodcast where you can ask the host questions, or email info@vopitpodcast.africa for topic suggestions and compliments and general inquiries.

May 12, 202357:05
S01 EP03 | Twitter's API Closure: What Possibilities Are Lost? | Lucas Lago

S01 EP03 | Twitter's API Closure: What Possibilities Are Lost? | Lucas Lago

Welcome to The Voices of Public Interest Technology Podcast with Oarabile Mudongo.


In this episode, we'll be discussing the Impact of Twitter's API Closure: What Possibilities Are Lost?


Twitter's recent announcement to close its API has left developers, businesses, researchers, and users concerned about the future of social media innovation.


Our special guest, Lucas Lago, a data journalist, discusses the implications of Twitter's API closure, including the limitations it presents for developers and researchers, its impact on businesses that rely on Twitter data for marketing, and the potential impact on the wider ecosystem of social media platforms.


Join us to explore alternative data sources and innovative technologies that could arise in the wake of this change. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation!


Follow us on Twitter @VoPITPodcast where you can ask the host questions, or email info@vopitpodcast.africa for topic suggestions and compliments and general inquiries.


May 02, 202338:52
S01 EP02 | Defending Digital Rights: Strengthening Digital Resilience for African Civil Societies | Brian Byaruhanga

S01 EP02 | Defending Digital Rights: Strengthening Digital Resilience for African Civil Societies | Brian Byaruhanga

Are you concerned about the digital resilience of African civil societies?


Tune in to this episode of the VoPIT Podcast with your host, Oarabile Mudongo, as we explore the topic of Strengthening Digital Resilience for African Civil Societies.


Our guest expert, Brian Byaruhanga, a Media Democracy Fund Tech Exchange Fellow with CIPESA, shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities faced by African communities when it comes to protecting their online freedoms and democratic governance.


We'll delve into the unique obstacles of cyber attacks, surveillance, and censorship faced by African civil societies, and how they can leverage innovative strategies and technologies to overcome these hurdles. Brian's expertise in digital rights, digital security, and internet freedom will provide valuable insights on how we can build resilience and drive positive change in the African region.


Join us in this thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of technology, policy, and human rights, and its impact on the African region's democratic governance.


Don't miss out on this informative episode of The Voices of Public Interest Technology Podcast!


If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and please leave a review.


Send us your questions, suggestions and compliments to info@vopitpodcast.africa

Apr 25, 202332:29
S01 EP01 | The Intersection of Arts, Technology & Social Impact | Esther Mwema

S01 EP01 | The Intersection of Arts, Technology & Social Impact | Esther Mwema

In this episode, our expert host Oarabile Mudongo is joined by a true visionary in the Public Interest Technology (PIT) space: Esther Mwema.


Esther is a Senior Atlantic Fellow and Co-founder of Digital Grassroots, she's an artist and digital inequalities practitioner with a wealth of experience in internet governance, digital transformation, and innovation. Together with Oarabile, she delves into the fascinating topic of the intersection of arts, technology, and social impact in the PIT space.


Esther shares her insights on how technology and art can be used as powerful tools for social justice movements, and how prioritizing African feminist and decolonial practice can bring about positive change. We explore her experience with creating digital solutions that are accessible and equitable for marginalized communities.


As the conversation unfolds, Esther also talks about the importance of centering collaboration and open leadership in her work, and the potential for technology and art to foster greater understanding and connection across diverse communities.


And, as a special surprise at the end of the show, stay tuned for a thought-provoking and inspiring message from Esther that will leave you feeling empowered to create positive change in the world around you.


So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the amazing insights of Esther Mwema in this episode of "The Intersection of Arts, Technology & Social Impact"


If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and please leave a review.


Send us your questions to info@vopitpodcast.africa


Follow us on Twitter: @VoPITPodcast where you can ask the host questions, or email info@vopitpodcast.africa

Mar 08, 202331:09
Teaser Trailer | VoPIT Podcast | Season 1
Nov 06, 202201:03