Shaping Data Governance and Advancing Digital Inclusion in Africa: Pathways for Sustainable Development

Abstract

This paper critically examines the evolving landscape of data governance in Africa, with particular emphasis on its intersection with digital inclusion and sustainable development. Drawing on policy frameworks, institutional practices, and expanded case evidence particularly from Nigeria where the study interrogates structural challenges such as policy fragmentation, infrastructural deficits, limited human capacity, and trust deficits, while also addressing critical power dynamics including data colonialism, corporate capture, and surveillance risks. The paper adopts a qualitative analytical approach with explicit document selection criteria and thematic analysis, for synthesizing continental frameworks such as the African Union Data Policy Framework 2022 and national regulatory developments, particularly Nigeria's Data Protection Act 2023. It further explores the evolving role of libraries and information professionals as key actors in fostering ethical data ecosystems, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring equitable access to information. Findings reveal that effective data governance is indispensable for bridging the digital divide and enabling inclusive participation in the digital economy. The study proposes a multi-dimensional framework for strengthening data governance in Africa, including policy harmonization, institutional capacity building, infrastructure investment, community-centered approaches, and critical safeguards against data exploitation. It concludes that a values-driven, inclusive data governance model is essential for achieving Africa's development aspirations under Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.