As the Chairperson of the Advisory Board for the Digital Agenda for Tanzania Initiative, John Mwakasege recently had the privilege of attending the European Cyber Agora Conference on 23-24 in Brussels, Belgium. This year’s conference marked a significant milestone in the ongoing dialogue surrounding cybersecurity and disruptive technologies in the dynamic geopolitical landscape.

The European Cyber Agora Conference serves as a vital platform for fostering cross-sectoral dialogue and collaboration amidst the evolving digital challenges we face. It brings together a diverse array of stakeholders, including representatives from EU institutions, national governments, cybersecurity agencies, civil society, academia, and industry, to address pressing issues at the nexus of technology, policy, and geopolitics.

One of the standout features of the conference was the engaging high-level panel discussions. These panels provided invaluable insights from experts across various fields, shedding light on topics such as cybersecurity policy, the future of cyber diplomacy, the geopolitics of AI, and the role of the private sector in hybrid conflict.

Furthermore, the workshops led by the Agora expert community offered deep dives into specific areas of interest. From discussions on election security and influence operations to cyber mercenaries and the development of cyber skills, these workshops provided a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted nature of contemporary cyber challenges.

John Mwakasege was particularly impressed by the collaborative spirit that permeated throughout the conference. It was evident that stakeholders from diverse backgrounds were united in their commitment to addressing the complex challenges posed by the digital age.

He would like to extend his appreciation to the facilitators of the European Cyber Agora, including Microsoft, the German Marshall Fund of the United States, and EU Cyber Direct, for organizing such a productive and enlightening event.

John Mwakasege’s experience at the European Cyber Agora 2024 reaffirmed the importance of international cooperation and dialogue in tackling the evolving threats in cyberspace. He looks forward to leveraging the insights gained from this conference to further contribute to the advancement of cybersecurity initiatives in Tanzania and beyond.