CONTROVERSIAL EDITION
MIMECAST AND INQ. SA. JOIN FORCES TO CONTROL THE FLOW OF INFORMATION IN AFRICA
In a shocking move, Mimecast, a global leader in email security, and inq. SA, a dominant edge computing technology company, have joined forces to peer at NAPAfrica, the largest internet exchange community in Africa. This alliance has sparked concerns about the concentration of power and control over the flow of information in the continent.
Ralph Berndt, Sales and Marketing Director at inq. SA, claims that this partnership will provide Mimecast’s clients with the "best possible experience and access to their portfolio of solutions." However, critics argue that this move will give the companies too much control over the flow of information, potentially stifling innovation and free speech.
THE CONSPIRACY THEORIES BEHIND THE PARTNERSHIP
Some have raised questions about the motivations behind this partnership, with some speculating that it is part of a larger effort to control the narrative in Africa. Michele McCann, head of platforms at Teraco, the digital realty company hosting NAPAfrica, claims that the peering point will allow community members to enjoy "lower-cost access and lower latency to a variety of advanced services." However, others argue that this is just a smokescreen for a more sinister agenda.
THE IMPACT ON AFRICAN INTERNET FREEDOM
The partnership has sparked concerns about the impact on African internet freedom. With Mimecast and inq. SA. controlling the flow of information, there is a risk that they will use their influence to silence dissenting voices and manipulate the narrative. This has sparked fears that the partnership will stifle innovation and creativity, as well as limit access to information and ideas.
THE FUTURE OF AFRICAN INTERNET FREEDOM
As the debate surrounding the partnership continues, it is clear that the future of African internet freedom hangs in the balance. Will this partnership lead to a more controlled and censored internet, or will it pave the way for a more open and free flow of information? Only time will tell.
