Hub Unconference calls for digital decolonization
By Marshall Bwanya
Harare – Africa’s digital minds are converging in Zimbabwe this September for the 11th edition of the Hub Unconference, the country’s leading gathering on digital media, civic tech, and the creative economy.
Under the bold theme “Decolonize the Internet,” the two-day event runs from 24–25 September at Harare Gardens, ahead of the Shoko Festival.
Over 30 speakers from seven African countries will explore urgent questions around data ownership, algorithm bias, digital storytelling, and Africa’s influence on global internet governance.
Local and international voices include Goitse Kwada (Botswana), Martial Panucci (Burkina Faso), Antonio Kisemboi and Kikaawa Nantume (Uganda), Willson Chivhanga (Malawi), Dean Bhebhe (South Africa), Mufasa Poet and Justine Wanda (Kenya), and Zimbabwe’s own King Kandoro, ProBeatz, and Takura Zhangazha.
“This year’s theme, Decolonize the Internet, challenges colonial legacies embedded in internet infrastructure, biased AI and foreign misinformation while calling on Africans to reclaim our digital narratives,” said Takudzwa Musakasa, Hub Unconference Coordinator.
“Our keynote speaker Takura Zhangazha will set the tone with his opening remarks,” added Musakasa.
The event comes at a time when Zimbabweans face frequent internet disruptions, high data costs, and limited digital infrastructure—challenges that complicate access to information and online participation.
Hub Unconference aims to address these issues head-on, creating spaces for African-led solutions in technology, media, and civic engagement.
The programme blends fireside chats, lightning talks, skill-share sessions, debates, live podcasts, and interactive showcases. Key panels include “Africa’s Data Goldmine: Who Profits, Who Loses?” and discussions on integrating AI into education, all designed to spark collaboration among Africa’s most innovative digital minds.
“One of our visions has been to use the Hub Unconference to create a space where all Zimbabwean media & tech colleges and universities can connect, collaborate, and give birth to new ideas to drive forward Africa’s alternative digital and media sectors – and we are getting there,” said Musakasa.
The Hub Unconference is free to attend, requiring only an RSVP.
It is proudly partnered with CHARM Africa, a consortium defending human rights, civic freedoms, and media development across the continent.
Previous editions have hosted prominent speakers from The Guardian, CNN, and Al Jazeera.
For Zimbabwe’s growing tech and creative community, the Hub Unconference is more than an event—it is a call to reclaim Africa’s digital future.
