Shoko Festival’s recently concluded Hub Unconference brought together experts, students, and creatives in technology, media, and journalism to tackle the theme “Decolonising the Internet.”
Festival founder and director Cde Fatso said this year’s discussions were central to the festival’s mission of shaping Zimbabwe’s urban culture.
“We are celebrating 15 years of growing the urban culture in Zimbabwe. What has been super interesting with the Hub Unconference is the theme this year ‘Decolonise the Internet.’ We have been talking about how can we create our own online spaces as Africans,” he said.
The Unconference featured a keynote address by media analyst Takura Zhangazha, who examined the issue of artificial intelligence and its dependence on Western-owned platforms.
His contribution resonated with attendees, sparking debate on how Africans can build their own digital systems rather than relying entirely on existing global models.
“So yesterday’s keynote speech by Takura Zhangazha about decolonising artificial intelligence was very interesting about how we are using all of these western platforms and how we need to create our own,” Cde Fatso said.
Participants also engaged in panel discussions and interactive sessions exploring content ownership, digital policy, and opportunities for collaboration in developing African-led online spaces.
Many emphasized the importance of reclaiming narratives and creating platforms that reflect the realities and identities of local communities.
The Hub Unconference has grown into one of the most influential aspects of Shoko Festival, often sparking national conversations on technology, media, and freedom of expression.
This year’s focus linked cultural celebration with a wider call for digital independence.
Share Your Comments