So, you're thinking about coming to MozFest House Zambia but haven’t decided yet? I get it—committing to an event can feel like a big deal. You’ve got to decide if it’s worth your time and energy. Well, let me tell you: this is absolutely worth it. But don’t just take our word for it—here is a sneak peak at what we are most excited about.
This is my top 10 list of sessions and installations that you’ll find me at, wide-eyed and probably taking too many notes. (Oh, and if you’re wondering about the mainstage, which will be livestreamed, you can check out all the details on Mozilla's YouTube channel.)
1. Circles or Dots
In this art installation, Hisi Studio reflects on the interplay between tradition and modernity. It applies the African philosophy of Ubuntu, raising questions about inclusion and whether current tech and policy really serve everyone, especially people with disabilities. We’re excited to see how this installations uses art to explore these urgent social and ethical questions.
2. SafeBangle: Tech for Safety in Conflict Zones
This session introduces a life-saving wearable tech that helps activists in conflict zones report violence safely and discreetly. We love that it’s not just about showcasing cool tech—it’s about using that tech for human rights. Attendees will brainstorm with human rights defenders on how to improve this tool. Real world impact? Yes, please.
3. Countering Digital Silences: Protecting Access to Information During Internet Shutdowns
Ever wondered what happens when the internet goes dark? This session tackles the real issue of maintaining access to information during internet shutdowns in Africa. It’s a mix of legal advocacy, tech solutions, and collaboration strategies—basically, all the things we need to keep democracy alive. We’re definitely in for this!
4. Preserving African Spirituality and Cultural Heritage Through AI: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations
Technological advances pose both benefits and threats to the preservation of cultural heritage in Africa. This session will explore how AI-driven tools can be harnessed to document, preserve, disseminate and promote African spiritual practices, customs and cultural heritage. It will also examine the ethical implications of 0digitizing sacred practices and traditional wisdom, ensuring that cultural sensitivity and respect for spiritual significance are maintained.
5. Safeguarding Privacy at the Edge: Advances in Secure Machine Learning
Although there is global consensus on the need for responsible AI, the alignment of codes of conduct, values, and standards remains fragmented. Privacy, however, stands out as a universally accepted principle to embed in AI systems. This session will explore innovative approaches for preserving privacy in edge-based machine learning and AI applications.
6. Empowering Change: The Intersection of Tech and Philanthropy
Philanthropy in tech creates a room for the world to re-imagine a better way technology can positively impact different aspects of society. In this session, we will delve into how tech can enhance transparency, efficiency, and collaboration within philanthropy. It will also share inspiring case studies that highlight successful partnerships between tech companies and nonprofits, showcasing real-world applications that have made a difference.
7. Beyond the Hype: Ethical Considerations for AI in Education
Educators, data privacy activists, researchers, policymakers, and technologists grappling with the potential of AI to transform educational systems in Africa and the ethical implications involved. This session will explore the challenges countries face in implementing AI in their educational systems, as well as the strategies and best practices from nations that promote responsible AI use.
8. African Intelligence for Artificial Intelligence: The Community Driven Approach
Community-driven approaches and collaborations are essential for building trustworthy AI models for African languages, which often face challenges from limited datasets.s. Integrating literature, culture, and art into this process ensures that AI models reflect the rich linguistic and cultural diversity of Africa. It will be interesting to learn more about the strategies for collecting authentic language samples, preserving cultural nuances, and creating resources that empower African language speakers in the digital age.
9. Leveraging AI and Digital Technologies for Women’s Empowerment and Access to Justice
Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies can serve as transformative tools in closing the gender digital divide, especially for women and girls in marginalized and underrepresented communities. In this session, we will get to know how feminist frameworks can be applied to ensure that digital literacy programs, affordable access to technology, and technology-driven solutions are intentionally designed to meet the specific needs of women.
10. Pan-African Agenda to Solve the Global Equity Crisis in Tech Accountability and AI development
Big Tech has under-invested in trust and safety in Africa and other global majority countries. This has enabled the spread of harmful content like hate speech, misinformation, and synthetic media - especially during critical events such as protests and elections. This session will examine how civil society organizations (CSOs), regulators, and policymakers can demand transparency, accountability, and greater investment in trust and safety.
But Wait, There’s More…
Of course, MozFest House Zambia isn’t just about sitting in sessions (though these are pretty amazing, right?). There will also be incredible art installations, spaces to meet fellow change-makers, and—spoiler alert—some pretty cool social events.
Plus, you’ll get the chance to meet fellow change-makers in engaging spaces designed for networking and collaboration. Whether you’re a tech nerd, an activist, an artist, or someone who simply loves a good conversation, there’s something here for everyone.
So, what do you say? Ready to join me in Zambia?
See you there! (I’ll be the one scribbling notes in the back, totally fangirling over the sessions.)