In a digital age where information shapes perceptions and narratives, Africa stands at a crossroads. Despite its wealth of diverse cultures, histories, and resources, Africa often finds itself underrepresented in the vast online landscape.

The Africa Wiki Challenge (AWC) emerges as a beacon of hope, calling upon participants from across the continent to unite in a transformative mission: amplifying Africa's voice and presence on the web.

The digital space offers boundless opportunities for storytelling and knowledge-sharing. Yet, as of April 2024, African content accounted for a mere 2.69% of Wikipedia's vast repository of knowledge. Moreover, African contributors constitute only 1.91% of the platform's active contributors.

This disparity underscores a pressing need to reclaim Africa's narrative and ensure that its stories are accurately represented and celebrated on global platforms like Wikipedia.

Initiated by Open Foundation West Africa in 2021, the Africa Wiki Challenge has blossomed into a collaborative movement spanning over 30 nations, including Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and beyond. United by a shared vision, participants have contributed to the creation of over 158,000 new articles and made nearly 10,000 edits to existing ones.

This collective effort not only bridges the content gap about Africa but also empowers individuals to document and share their own stories.

Aligned with the African Union's Agenda 2063 flagship Encyclopedia Africana, this year's Africa Wiki Challenge adopts the theme "Educate Africa: Nurturing Minds for the 21st Century." Embracing the spirit of lifelong learning, the theme celebrates Africa's rich educational heritage and encourages participants to explore diverse aspects of African culture, history, and innovation.

Launch

This year’s campaign was virtually launched on 24th May 2024 with over fifty (50) participants across the globe. The launch witnessed two speakers from the educational sector who spoke about the essence of preserving African content in the digital space. The Secretary General of UNESCO Ghana, Ama Serwah Nerquaye-Tetteh, the first speaker, highlighted the importance of educating young minds in preserving African content on digital spaces like Wikipedia.

The second speaker Mohammed Yussif Umaru, a Lecturer from the University of Mines and Technology also touched on some challenges with preserving African content in digital spaces and the importance of platforms like Wikipedia in the educational sector.

Participate

Joining the Africa Wiki Challenge is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to Africa's digital footprint. Participants can write new articles, improve existing ones, and upload photos under the theme. By registering and engaging with the challenge, individuals become catalysts for change, shaping a more inclusive and vibrant online ecosystem.

While the allure of prizes may entice participation, the true reward lies in the collective empowerment and celebration of Africa's stories. Beyond cash prizes and accolades, participants have the opportunity to make a lasting impact, enriching the global conversation and fostering cross-cultural understanding.

As the Africa Wiki Challenge unfolds, let us embrace the power of storytelling to redefine Africa's narrative. Let us amplify voices, celebrate diversity, and bridge the digital divide. Together, we can empower Africa and inspire a new generation of storytellers.

How can you participate?

1. Writing and Improving Articles: Participants can contribute by writing new articles or improving existing ones related to Africa on Wikipedia and other Wikimedia projects. Every edit counts towards amplifying Africa's presence online.

2. Photo Uploads: Alongside written content, participants can also contribute by uploading photos that accurately depict African culture, landmarks, and people. Visit the campaign's landing page to register your participation and find more details about the challenge. Additionally, join the AWC Participant Telegram page for interactions and important updates and a link to join the virtual office hours.

Follow Open Foundation West Africa on all social platforms for all you need to know about the campaign.