RISE Networks Initiates Hackathon to Tackle Electoral Issues

RISE Networks launched the AI4Elections Hackathon at a World Press Conference and Ecosystem Roundtable in Abuja, aimed at addressing electoral challenges ahead of the 2027 polls. Dr Toyosi Akerele, the founder of RISE Networks, stated that the initiative would gather software developers, journalists, election experts, researchers, and technology specialists to focus on five key areas: trustworthy electoral information, electoral data analysis, inclusive civic technology, cybersecurity, and election observation.

The hackathon is supported by Meta, Microsoft, Google, the MacArthur Foundation, and Luminate. It will also create an Elections Development Hub and a Community of Practice for research and collaboration.

Akerele emphasized the importance of protecting electoral infrastructure, requiring participants to use synthetic datasets. Dr Lawrence Bayode, INEC’s Director of Information and Communication Technology, mentioned that INEC is adopting artificial intelligence responsibly in electoral administration, including the establishment of an AI Division.

Professor Victor Odumuyiwa praised the initiative for promoting electoral transparency and accountability.