AFRINIC Holds Elections Amid Dispute and Calls for Reform
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Last week, the African Network Information Center (AFRINIC) announced the appointment of eight new directors following recent elections. This achievement marks the first potential convening of a complete board since 2022, a crucial step toward resuming its core functions.
Overview of AFRINIC and Its Role -------------------------------
AFRINIC is one of five Regional Internet Registries (RIRs), responsible for delegating and managing IP addresses and autonomous system numbers in its designated regions, which cover 54 nations across Africa and the Indian Ocean. The organization has been embroiled in complex disputes with its member, Cloud Innovation, which challenged the registry’s authority over a significant IPv4 block. AFRINIC contended that Cloud Innovation’s holdings were being misused, but the member claimed they acquired the IPs legitimately.
Legal Battles and Operational Stalemates --------------------------------------
Cloud Innovation initiated multiple lawsuits related to their dispute, hampering AFRINIC’s ability to appoint a CEO or elect new board members. Consequently, the organization was unable to perform its fundamental role of IP address allocation.
In response, courts in Mauritius—the jurisdiction hosting AFRINIC—appointed a receiver in 2024. The receiver sought to organize elections for a new board; however, an initial election in June 2025 was annulled without explanation. A subsequent re-election process, conducted under new rules, was scheduled for late August but was delayed until last week.
Election Results and Political Backdrop --------------------------------------
Following the polls’ closure, AFRINIC announced the election of eight directors. Notably, seven of these directors were endorsed by Smart Africa, an organization representing 40 member nations committed to advancing digital technology across Africa.
Implications of the Election ----------------------------
The formation of a new board enables AFRINIC to take critical steps such as hiring a CEO, unfreezing its bank accounts, and resuming normal operations. Nonetheless, challenges remain. Critics question whether the election adhered to AFRINIC’s bylaws, with stakeholders expected to seek judicial review in Mauritius. Additionally, the organization is under investigation by the Mauritian government, with a separate criminal probe into the June election ongoing.
Regional and International Tensions ----------------------------
Some members of Africa’s internet community express concern over the bias toward Smart Africa’s influence, as the new board’s majority may be dominated by a few countries—including some prospective new homes for AFRINIC. While Smart Africa has called for a coordinated continental response to protect institutional integrity, it has not endorsed any specific member ambitions regarding AFRINIC’s leadership.
Future Directions and Governance Reforms ---------------------------------------
AFRINIC’s disputes have attracted the attention of ICANN, the global body overseeing all RIRs. ICANN is developing new policies that could allow it to reform or de-register problematic registries, prompted by the crisis at AFRINIC. A revised draft policy was released in late August, with feedback requested by November.
As internet governance evolves gradually, the likelihood remains that ICANN and other RIRs could intervene decisively if AFRINIC’s new board fails to restore stability. Meanwhile, the ongoing disputes and legal challenges continue to overshadow AFRINIC’s path forward.
