Platforms, Power & Digital Colonialism – Rethinking Civic Tech in a Geopolitical Age

When civic tech relies on foreign platforms and foreign funding, who’s really in control? Gabriella Razzano on power, platforms, and building for the public good

In this episode, guest Gabriella Razzano (Executive Director at OpenUp) explores how Africa’s digital future is shaped not just by technology — but by global power dynamics, data control, and platform dependence.

They discuss the notion of “digital colonialism”: how foreign tech platforms and Big Tech investment patterns can undermine local innovation, extract value, and limit data sovereignty for African countries.

The episode argues that in order for civic‑tech to succeed on the continent, builders must prioritise context over code — designing tools that serve local needs, protect data rights, and empower communities rather than replicate foreign models.

Finally, the conversation highlights challenges such as the very small share of global AI and tech investment going to Africa, structural biases in funding, and the necessity of sustainable, revenue‑driven civic tech (rather than grant‑dependent models) to ensure long‑term impact.