“I got it! I got it!” 

Participants at the 2025 Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum still remember the joy on James Basil Zulu’s face when he emerged as the winner of the golden ticket for DRIF26. But that was not the primary reason he went to the forum. From championing digital literacy to creating safe tech spaces for marginalised communities, James Basil Zulu wears many hats. An ICT professional, cybersecurity and data protection specialist, digital rights activist, and CyberTech Director at The Local Voice Literacy Network.James is passionate about ensuring no one is left behind in Africa’s digital transformation journey. 

The Paradigm Initiative team caught up with him to learn more about his work, his reflections on DRIF25 in Lusaka, and what he’s looking forward to at DRIF26 in Côte d’Ivoire.

• Who is James Basil, and what do you do?

I am James Basil Zulu, an ICT professional, cybersecurity/data protection specialist, digital rights activist, and CyberTech Director at The Local Voice Literacy Network. My work focuses on bridging the digital divide through literacy, technology, and digital inclusive empowerment programmes  especially for women, children, and persons living with disabilities such as Women’s and Kids Expo W.A.K.E. I also write columns in national newspapers and host discussions on cybersecurity (CyberTalk TV, CyberTech Debate Series for schools and universities), human rights, and technology policy, with the aim of shaping a more informed and digitally secure society. In addition, I am actively involved in establishing Inklusi Digilit (Inclusive Digital Literacy) Hubs, safe spaces designed for the deaf, the blind, and persons with autism to gain access to digital education, while also providing financial literacy training for caregivers and persons with disabilities. I am passionate about this initiative because it reflects my commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital transformation journey.

• Can you walk us through your experience at DRIF25 in Lusaka? What stood out most for you?

DRIF25 was a truly transformative experience. It was inspiring to be part of a gathering where diverse voices across Africa discussed internet freedom, digital inclusion, and policy. What stood out most for me was the energy and openness, how policymakers, activists, and young innovators could sit at the same table and talk about real issues affecting our digital space.

I also greatly benefited from the LONDA report launch, which provided important insights into the state of digital rights across the continent. Another highlight was the movie , which brought to life the impact of social media and was a reminder of the power and responsible use of digital platforms. Beyond the sessions, hearing people from various backgrounds share their personal stories and perspectives broadened my understanding of how digital rights and inclusion are experienced differently across Africa. These moments gave me more understanding and reinforced my commitment to making digital spaces safer and more inclusive in Africa.

• How did it feel when you found out you had won the Golden Ticket to DRIF26? Can you describe that moment?

It was a humbling and exciting moment. Winning the Golden Ticket felt like recognition of the work I’ve been doing locally to promote digital literacy and rights. I was so focused on the sessions and actively contributing during DRIF25 that this award felt like a huge reward, especially with the rich interchange of knowledge that was taking place. It gave me motivation to keep pushing forward, knowing that my voice and efforts are valued not just in Zambia but across Africa.

What makes this even more meaningful is that much of my work centers on establishing Inklusi Digilit Hubs for the deaf, the blind, and persons with autism, while also providing financial literacy support for caregivers and persons with disabilities. To me, the Golden Ticket was not just personal recognition but also a validation of these inclusive initiatives. At the same time, I remain deeply humbled every day, because I see this recognition as encouragement to continue serving and amplifying the voices of the marginalised

• How has attending DRIF shaped your perspective on digital rights in Africa?

Attending DRIF reinforced the need to advocate for digital rights, which are not abstract concepts but are directly tied to freedom of expression, economic development, education, and social justice. Additionally, it reinforced the need for collaborative solutions due to the challenges with access, affordability, and digital inclusion in Africa. I left with a stronger conviction that digital rights advocacy must be localised but also connected to continental and global movements.

• What ideas or experiences are you bringing with you to DRIF26 in Côte d’Ivoire?

I am bringing lessons on how literacy and community-based tech initiatives can empower marginalised groups to claim their digital rights. I also want to share experiences on using media, both traditional and digital, as a tool for awareness and advocacy. My aim is to connect these local practices with broader policy conversations at DRIF26.

In addition, I will bring practical concepts of cybersecurity, data protection, and emerging technologies into the discussions and presentations. I believe Africa as a whole can benefit greatly when these topics are not only addressed at the policy level but also made accessible to marginalisedcommunities who are often excluded from digital opportunities. My plan is to make presentations and real-life simulations on cybersecurity and digital tools, highlighting both the technical and policy aspects, and demonstrating how we are all involved in building a safer, more inclusive digital space. By grounding these discussions in real experiences and practical tools, I hope to contribute to shaping key steps that ensure no one is left behind in Africa’s digital transformation journey.

• What do you look forward to most at DRIF26 and why?

I look forward to networking and building collaborations with fellow digital rights advocates from across the continent and to learn new strategies, exchanging solutions, and forming partnerships that go beyond borders. I am particularly excited to hear how different countries are approaching data governance, online safety, cybersecurity, and digital inclusion, and to see how those lessons can be applied back home in Zambia.

I also deeply appreciate the role of Paradigm Initiative in connecting Africa through this forum which is a space for real interchange of knowledge, practical collaboration, and shaping the future of digital rights on the continent. DRIF is an opportunity for me to continue this shared journey, while also contributing my work on CyberTech digital literacy, community-based tech initiatives, and inclusive digital empowerment.

• One fun fact: what’s something about you people don’t know or wouldn’t believe?

Most people know me as a serious ICT and policy person, but few know that I am also a passionate media presenter and have hosted shows with top government and tech leaders in Zambia. Another fun fact is that I initially wanted to be a criminal lawyer, even went as far as working in a public prosecutors office as an intern. However I have always been passionate about tech and decided to pursue that passion in computer science and Cybersecurity, I appreciate my initial legal studies as they have shaped my perspective and priorities by allowing me to appreciate the human rights aspect to technology. And I also enjoy writing creative pieces and poetry, which helps me balance the intensity of digital rights work with personal expression.