Paradigm Initiative has released its 2025 Annual Impact Report, revealing major growth in its digital rights and inclusion work across Africa and other parts of the Global South.
According to the report, the organisation recorded a consolidated media reach of 3.07 billion during 2025 while directly reaching 1,830 beneficiaries through five key digital inclusion initiatives.
The report also showed that PIN trained 282 stakeholders through cyber law and digital rights engagements, organised 55 events, and handled 11 strategic litigation cases, including a landmark privacy ruling.
The organisation expanded its digital literacy and skills programmes through its Life Skills, ICTs, Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurship (LIFE) Legacy Programme. Training activities were carried out across 13 African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Cameroon, Senegal, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
The programme focused on helping young people, women, teachers, and underserved communities improve digital skills, financial literacy, employability, and awareness of online rights.
PIN also disclosed that more than 250 judges, prosecutors, and law enforcement officials in Nigeria, Ghana, and Zambia received training through its Stemming the Tides of Abuse in Nigeria’s Digital System (STANDS) programme and related cyber law initiatives.
The organisation said the training programmes are beginning to influence legal and law enforcement practices in participating countries.
Gbenga Sesan said the year demonstrated the impact that could be achieved through sustained commitment to digital rights and inclusion work.
“2025 was also a year that reminded us of what is possible when people commit to doing much-needed work well,” Sesan said.
The report also raised concerns about growing threats to digital rights across Africa and the wider Global South.
According to PIN, many countries introduced vague cybercrime and cybersecurity laws in 2025, increasing the risks of surveillance, censorship, and misuse of enforcement powers.
The organisation further warned that internet shutdowns, online harassment, and restrictions on digital platforms continued to reduce civic space, especially during elections and periods of political tension.
“Governments accelerated the rollout of digital infrastructure while, in too many cases, sidelining the rights frameworks that should govern it,” Sesan added.
Despite these challenges, PIN said it remained committed to promoting a digital future built on inclusion, privacy, freedom of expression, safety, and human rights across Africa.
