An analysis of consolidation of power by internet players in relation to internet governance structures, form and content in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

The predictions for the Internet ecosystem indicate that fewer Internet players are becoming too big and powerful. The trend in recent years, is that of all consumer tools such as infrastructure, social media, entertainment and communications could be supplied by one provider or group of providers. This development, dubbed consolidation of market power by a few players has the likelihood to change the nature, form and structure of Internet governance. The study focuses on consolidation and concentration of power by a few Internet players in the Africa region. It assess if this phenomena is happening in Africa and if it has the potential to change the way we understand Internet governance, in terms of structure, form and content issues discussed at different internet governance platforms. The research uses a combination of methodologies including intensive document review, analysis of past internet governance fora in Africa namely Africa IGF, Africa Internet Peering and Interconnectivity Forum and the Africa Internet Summit between the period under review from 2014 to 2019 to assess if in fact consolidation has an effect on the structures of internet governance in Africa. The research analysed the stakeholders at different internet governance platforms in Africa, their roles in determining content issues and influencing decision and resolution of such meetings. It also analysed the financial contributions to governance platforms in relation to power dynamics and influence. The major findings, notes that internet governance spaces are not necessarily aiding consolidation trends in Africa. In fact, consolidation seem to be purely a business concept, happening through business strategies and processes of gaining dominance. Evidence and results shows that while consolidation may continue to grow, it may not necessarily affect the structure form and content of internet governance in Africa, at least in the short term. An important recommendation coming out of this study, is that Internet governance spaces need to and should remain, multisectoral and multistakeholder in nature, this is important in balancing the needs and interests of various stakeholders. It is possible for stakeholders with similar interests and needs to organise other platforms were they discuss very specific issues related to their sector. Even if these spaces are dominated by big players, it does not necessarily mean that they will exert their power and influence and use these platforms to further consolidation of their enterprises. The research also recommends especially governments and policy makers to be wary of consolidation trends, as this may stifle innovations. As a result, governments could make increasing competition in targeted areas and expanding infrastructure to underserved areas a priority in order to maximize private investment. In the areas of connectivity for example, government can support new models like community network and small wireless ISPs that brings innovations and quality of services and in the process ensures growth and competitiveness to the sector. This study is envisaged to add to the body of knowledge on Internet governance in Africa. The internet governance space in Africa is evolving and emerging concepts such as consolidation of market forces has not been studied widely. These emerging developments pose opportunities, risks and challenges to the way we understand internet governance. This study raises awareness to society and academia on how concentration and consolidation of power by a few Internet players could potentially be a worrying phenomenon. While consolidation is generally an industry process, it has effects on an open network that thrives on innovation and entry of multiple players