Enhancing electoral
integrity : bridging data governance gaps in Nigeria and Kenya
As digital technologies become increasingly embedded in electoral processes, the stakes have never been higher. Protecting voters’ data and maintaining the integrity of elections are critical components of safeguarding democracy. That's where our project steps in. Over the last few months, the Ikigai Innovation Initiative, in collaboration with Tech Hive Advisory, launched a project titled Bridging Data Governance Gaps in Africa’s Electioneering Processes, funded by the Datafication and Democracy Fund. Our mission was to address data governance challenges threatening the integrity of elections across Africa, specifically focusing on Nigeria and Kenya.
This project goes beyond theories and abstract ideas, pushing for actionable change. Through comprehensive research, grassroots discussions, and collaborative stakeholder engagement, we are laying the groundwork for a future where data in elections are managed in a transparent, secure, and trustworthy manner. Let’s explore how we’re making this happen and why it matters right now.
Exploring the data landscape: Research insights
Our project began with a research phase led by a dedicated team of five researchers from Ikigai and Tech Hive. The objective of the research is to dissect the data governance landscape within the election cycles of Nigeria and Kenya. By analysing a wide range of sources from academic papers to regulatory documents, the team identified critical challenges that could undermine the integrity of elections.
For instance, in Nigeria we found that the public disclosure of voter data often violates basic privacy principles, while in Kenya, we found that there were irregularities in electoral data transmission. Both countries also face significant cybersecurity threats due to weak infrastructure, making them vulnerable to data breaches that could influence electoral outcomes.
The research is more than just a theoretical exercise, it aims to serve as a step towards developing practical solutions that can enhance data governance and, by extension, electoral integrity.
Voices from the Ground: Focus Group Discussions and Surveys
In June, we expanded our research efforts by conducting four virtual focus group discussions, equally split between Nigerian and Kenyan electorates. These discussions, led by independent research assistants, provided invaluable insights into the everyday realities of voters, shedding light on the specific data protection challenges they face during elections.
Additionally, we conducted a detailed survey with 127 electorates using survey tools, gathering a broad spectrum of opinions. From concerns about the unauthorised use of personal data for political campaigns to frustrations over the lack of transparency in data management, these firsthand accounts are vital.
These results not only validate our research findings but also add depth and nuance, ensuring our recommendations are grounded in real-world experiences.
Building Bridges: Stakeholder Engagement
A project of this scale requires collaboration with key stakeholders to be truly effective. After identifying the relevant actors, regulators, civil society organisations, and experts in the electoral and data governance spaces we hosted a hybrid stakeholder engagement session.
Stakeholders from various sectors discussed the current data governance landscape in Nigeria’s electoral processes, identified challenges, and collaborated on potential solutions. The feedback and insights gathered during this session will play a critical role in shaping our final recommendations and ensuring they are both practical and impactful.
Next Steps: Consolidation, Analysis, and Actionable Recommendations
With the stakeholder engagement session now complete, we’re moving into the next phase of the project: consolidation and analysis. Our team will compile the best practices, insights, and feedback from our research, focus groups, and stakeholder engagement. This comprehensive analysis will form the basis for developing actionable recommendations to improve data governance in African electoral processes.
Conclusions
As we look ahead, the success of this project hinges on continued collaboration and commitment from all involved. By working together, we can develop data governance frameworks that protect voter data, promote transparency, and foster trust in electoral outcomes. The journey is far from over, but with the insights we have gathered and the partnerships we have forged, we are well on our way to making a meaningful impact.
Your continued support and engagement are vital as we move forward. Let’s keep the conversation going, let’s keep pushing for change, and let’s ensure that when voters go to the polls, they can do so with confidence in the systems that underpin our democracies.
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