[Chapter-delegates] Campaign Announcement: Francis Olivier Cubahiro for ISOC Chapters Advisory Council Steering Committee

[cubahiro francis olivier]

Dear Chapter Leaders,

I am thrilled to officially announce my candidacy for the Internet
Society’s Chapters Advisory Council Steering Committee. As we enter this
election period, I would like to take this opportunity to share my
motivations, vision, and the unique value I bring to this leadership
position.

*Motivation*

My candidacy is driven by a deep and long-standing commitment to promoting
an open, secure, and inclusive Internet. As the Director General of ICT for
Burundi, I have had the privilege of leading key initiatives aimed at
closing the digital divide, particularly in underserved rural areas. I am
passionate about ensuring that the benefits of the digital economy are
accessible to all, especially to women and marginalized communities.

Over the years, I have been actively involved in Internet governance,
cybersecurity, and digital inclusion projects, working in close
collaboration with organizations such as the International
Telecommunication Union (ITU), UN Women, and the European Union. From
enhancing national broadband infrastructure to advocating for
gender-responsive digital policies, I see the Chapters Advisory Council
Steering Committee as a critical platform to expand these efforts globally.

*Vision for 2025*

By the end of 2025, I envision the Chapters Advisory Council playing a
pivotal role in advancing equitable Internet access, grounded in
collaboration and inclusivity. My goals include:

   1.

   *Promote Internet Openness and Security*: We must continue advocating
   for policies that uphold an open and secure Internet, ensuring transparency
   and inclusiveness in governance, particularly in developing regions.
   2.

   *Advance Digital Inclusion Frameworks*: I aim to champion the
   development of national and regional frameworks that expand Internet access
   in underserved areas sustainably, with a focus on empowering rural women
   and youth.
   3.

   *Balance Innovation and Security*: The rise of emerging technologies
   like AI, 5G, and IoT presents both opportunities and challenges. I will
   advocate for responsible policies that harness these innovations while
   protecting user privacy and security.
   4.

   *Foster Cross-Chapter Collaboration*: Strengthening relationships
   between chapters globally is essential to building a knowledge-sharing
   network that reflects the diverse needs of our community. I will work to
   enhance collaboration for mutual growth.
   5.

   *Champion Digital Equity*: As an advocate for gender inclusion, I will
   continue leading efforts to ensure the Internet is a tool for
   socio-economic empowerment, with a focus on equitable access for women,
   youth, and marginalized communities worldwide.

*Why My Experience Matters*

With over 15 years of experience in ICT policy, digital inclusion, and
governance, I bring a wealth of practical knowledge and leadership to the
Chapters Advisory Council. As Burundi’s representative to the ITU and
ICANN, I have been at the forefront of multi-stakeholder dialogues,
ensuring that the voices of government, the private sector, and civil
society are heard in shaping a more secure, inclusive, and impactful
Internet.

In my current role, I have led digital connectivity projects to bring
broadband to rural areas, supported the development of cybersecurity laws,
and spearheaded gender-inclusive digital literacy programs focused on
ensuring access to reliable and affordable Internet. I have also
contributed to initiatives such as the African Girls Can Code Initiative,
connecting schools and communities to high-speed satellite Internet, and
the Burundi Model of Open Internet Skills and Competences, fostering the
next generation of digital innovators.

As the landscape of Internet governance evolves, the next few years will be
critical, and I am confident that my experience and commitment to
inclusivity will help the Steering Committee navigate these challenges.
Together, we can ensure that the Internet continues to be a force for good,
empowering communities across public, private, and academic sectors,
remaining accessible to all and secure for future generations.

Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to engaging with
many of you in the weeks ahead and to discussing how we can collectively
realize our vision for the Internet Society by 2025.

Warm regards,

*Francis Olivier Cubahiro*
Chair, ISOC Burundi Chapter
Candidate for the Internet Society’s Chapters Advisory Council Steering
Committee
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