• ICANN’s ICP‑2 policies grant it significant power over regional registries like AFRINIC, raising concerns about Africa’s autonomy in managing its digital resources.
  • Cloud Innovation Ltd. calls for the appointment of a new RIR to replace AFRINIC, aiming to restore trust and ensure Africa’s IP resources are properly managed.

ICANN’s growing influence over regional internet governance

According to sources with knowledge of the issue, ICANN’s ICP‑2 policies have raised concerns about regional autonomy in Africa’s internet governance. Industry pundits say that ICANN is trying to take control of AFRINIC and Africa’s internet resources. The ICP‑2 policies provide a framework for recognising regional internet registries (RIRs). Many argue that these policies give ICANN too much power, undermining Africa’s self-governance.

Also read: ICANN threatens to derecognize AFRINIC after years of silence

ICP‑2 policies grant ICANN unprecedented power

BTW Media sources have revealed that the ICP‑2 document gives ICANN the ability to de-recognise regional registries like AFRINIC. This would allow ICANN to seize control of Africa’s IP resources. According to our research, critics believe this move could weaken Africa’s role in managing its digital infrastructure. The policies also allow ICANN to decide who leads AFRINIC, a decision that could bypass local control and limit regional influence.

Also read: ICANN’s opposition to legal POAs will deter participation in AFRINIC elections

AFRINIC’s governance crisis and its impact on IP management

The situation has worsened following AFRINIC’s election cancellation in June 2023 due to an unverified proxy dispute. This incident has further eroded trust in AFRINIC’s ability to manage Africa’s IP resources. Critics argue that AFRINIC’s governance is no longer reliable. Without fair and democratic elections, the organisation is failing to fulfil its duties.

Also read: EXPOSED: The letter that reveals who was really benefitting from AFRINIC’s lawsuits

Calls for a new RIR to protect Africa’s digital future

Cloud Innovation Ltd., a major AFRINIC member, has called for the creation of a new RIR to replace AFRINIC. According to sources close to Cloud Innovation, this is the only way to restore trust in the region’s digital governance. They argue that a new, transparent leadership structure is needed to ensure Africa’s digital future is safeguarded. This shift would protect the region’s autonomy and prevent global entities from taking control.

Also read: How AFRINIC’s board elections became a political battlefield