Programme Details

VENUE: DIGNITY

Workshop | Date: 28 March 2026 | Time: 15h00 | Presented by: Tekano

Technology, Power, and Democracy in South Africa: Reclaiming the Digital Commons

Digital systems, inequality, and democratic control

This workshop will examine how platforms, data systems, and AI reshape political power, state authority, and democratic participation in South Africa. It will also analyse how global tech corporations, data extraction, and trade regimes constrain democratic control, accountability, and constitutional governance. Join this session to xplore how algorithms, biometrics, online violence, and high data costs reproduce inequality and limit meaningful political participation.

Tekano is part of a network of seven global Atlantic programmes who together work for fairer, healthier, more inclusive societies. We tackle systemic inequities by creating a platform of knowledge, collaboration, innovation, and action that advances health equity.

Michael Kwet

Michael Kwet is a Senior Researcher of the Centre for Social Change at the University of Johannesburg. A pioneering scholar at the forefront of digital colonialism, Michael is editor of The Cambridge Handbook of Race and Surveillance (2023), author of Digital Degrowth: Technology in the Age of Survival (Pluto, 2024), and founder of the forthcoming website, PeoplesTech.org. He has also published at outlets like Al Jazeera, The Intercept, Mail & Guardian, Counterpunch and Truthdig. Michael received his PhD in Sociology from Rhodes University, South Africa.

Precious Mamotingoe Lesupi

Precious Mamotingoe Lesupi is a senior data security engineer and founder of Queers Code, focused on inclusive and accessible technology for minority groups. They hold degrees in Journalism and French from UFS, and Visual Studies from UP, where they are currently completing a Master’s in Visual Studies. Precious has published and presented academic research in mathematics, including work on African fractal geometry and string theory, and is recognised as a BRICS+ expert in unmanned aircraft systems and digital industry. They also contribute to international initiatives including the BRICS Business Council and UN Human Rights Defenders, while mentoring, teaching, and advancing research in inclusivity and accessibility across STEAM.

Zukiswa Wanner

Zukiswa Wanner is an award-winning author of five novels, including London Cape Town Joburg, as well as children’s books, nonfiction, and essays. Her work has been translated into several languages, and in 2020 she became the first African woman to receive the Goethe Medal for her contribution to culture. She has twice been named among New African’s 100 Most Influential Africans, and her recent books include Flotilla: A Journey of Conscience and Sunshine City. She also serves on the Advisory Board of Ake Festival.