UNITAR, Sant'Anna School of Advanced Studies present

Civil Society in the Digital Arena: Safeguarding Electoral Integrity in Africa

This session is part of the Master in Electoral Policy & Administration (MEPA) programme, jointly delivered by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna and the International IDEA. MEPA provides advanced, practice-oriented training on election administration, democratic governance, and policy design, bringing together global experts, practitioners, and scholars. This webinar brings together three leading practitioners working at the intersection of technology, civic engagement, and democratic resilience in Africa. As digital transformation accelerates across the continent, civil society plays an increasingly vital role in protecting electoral integrity, strengthening transparency, and safeguarding public trust. Our speakers will explore key issues, including AI-generated disinformation, digital inclusion, civic tech innovation, youth participation, and the data-driven tools shaping credible and peaceful elections. Speakers:

• Mamadou Diagne – Data Scientist & IT Manager, AfricTivistes Expert in civic tech, open data, and AI-related risks in elections, including the impact of multilingual AI-generated disinformation and digital governance. 
• Bukola Bankole Idowu – Executive Director, Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) A regional leader in electoral reforms, risk forecasting, civic resilience, and political accountability across Nigeria and West Africa. 
• Moussa Waly Sene – Data Scientist & Programme Manager, Paradigm Initiative Specialist in machine learning, NLP, and digital policy, with experience applying AI solutions to governance and development challenges.