Ongoing Initiative
Encouraging Domain Name System (DNS) operators, registries, and registrars in select African countries to implement and deploy DNS Security Extensions (DNSSEC), while working with network operators to turn on DNSSEC validation. This effort will ultimately lead to the development of a DNS resource portal for Africa.
Drive awareness and build understanding of the importance of the DNSSEC, and to increase DNSSEC adoption and deployment in Africa.
Spearhead DNSSEC deployment and validation by conducting capacity development and hands-on training sessions called “deployathons” in at least 15 additional countries in Africa in three years.
DNSSEC adds trust to the Internet
by preventing attackers from tampering with DNS data.
It uses digital signatures to provide origin authentication and data integrity.
Wider adoption in Africa means:
Stronger protection against attacks
Greater reliability for Internet users
Resilient DNS infrastructure across the continent.
Since its launch in mid-2023, the Roadshows have steadily expanded:
Received training in the first phase. Botswana reactivated DNSSEC in May 2024 after nearly two years unsigned; Burkina Faso began preparing for deployment.
Added in 2024, with pre-assessments and roadshow activities completed for Cameroon and Nigeria.
.bf and .cm began publishing signed zones (.cm on 23 April, .bf on 30 April), both marked the achievement with online ceremonies.
.cm and .bf are now fully DNSSEC operational, with signed zones and established chains of trust.
Six ccTLDs (.bf, .bw, .cm, .cv, .ng, .sd) have already engaged, showing growing momentum.
Deployments in .bf and .cm highlighted the value of pre-assessments, coordination, disciplined follow-up, and documentation — creating a playbook for others.
DNSSEC restored in May 2024 after nearly two years unsigned — proof of the Roadshow's impact.
Registries gained skills in testbeds, key management, upgrades, and monitoring. In Cameroon, a five-person team implemented DNSSEC quickly — proof that local readiness accelerates results. These efforts are helping seed a growing network of regional expertise that other countries can draw on.
Practical workshops to accelerate DNSSEC adoption in at least 15 countries.
Direct technical assistance in Burkina Faso, Botswana, Cameroon, Cabo Verde, Nigeria, and Sudan.
An online portal with guides, templates, and toolkits
(under development).
The Roadshows are only the beginning.
More countries are preparing to sign their zones, a dedicated DNSSEC resource hub is in development, and a continent-wide dashboard will continue to track progress. Together, these efforts are building a safer, more resilient Internet for Africa.
