Cotonou Hosts West African Internet Interconnection Forum
Cotonou, Benin, will be the host city for the West African Peering Forum (WAPF) on June 17-18, 2026. This regional event will bring together key stakeholders from the West African Internet ecosystem. Participants will include telecommunications operators, Internet service providers (ISPs), Internet Exchange Point (IXP) managers, technical experts, and regulatory authorities. These individuals will gather from various African countries to discuss and advance Internet interconnection within the region. The forum aims to foster collaboration and development in the digital infrastructure landscape of West Africa. Discussions are expected to cover critical aspects of improving internet connectivity and accessibility across the region. The WAPF serves as a vital platform for addressing challenges and exploring opportunities in the evolving digital economy of West Africa.
The West African Peering Forum in Cotonou signifies a crucial step towards enhancing regional digital infrastructure and reducing reliance on external connectivity. By convening telecommunications operators, ISPs, and regulatory bodies, the forum addresses the complex governance and technical challenges inherent in internet interconnection. Such initiatives are vital for fostering a more robust and cost-effective internet ecosystem, potentially lowering data costs and stimulating local digital economies. The long-term success will depend on sustained collaboration and the implementation of agreed-upon technical standards and policies, balancing national interests with regional integration goals in the face of evolving global digital trends.
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