In Madagascar, a team is developing an online platform called “Isika”. Its objective is to allow Malagasy people to identify their daily needs and for political decision-makers to be able to respond to them. A project in the running for the continental competition “Innov 4 Democracy”, organized by the pan-African NGO Africtivistes, the winner of which will be rewarded on February 2, 2024. Details.
3 mins
With our correspondent in Antananarivo, Pauline Le Troquier
It’s a competition like no other that’s currently taking place on the continent. Ten teams are engaged in the hackathon – a programming marathon – “Innov 4 Democracy” which rewards digital initiatives in favor of democracy.
At the beginning of February, there will only be five left, all rewarded with 5,000 euros by the pan-African NGO Africtivistsbased in Dakar.
Madagascar is in the race with the platform “ Isika », dedicated to identifying online the direct needs of citizens throughout the country.
“ A more structured framework for discussions »
On this platform, Malagasy people list their daily problems. “ For two years, the fire hydrant in our neighborhood has suffered damage », complains for example, with supporting photo, a user. Another calls for the reconstruction of a damaged school.
Lova Mahanina, founder of Isika, has an ambitious objective: putting the needs of citizens at the heart of decision-making as close as possible to where they live. “ In Madagascar, as you know, we use social networks a lot, for example to give our opinions and criticisms to improve things.he says. But now what we’re doing is really creating a more structured framework for discussions. So, the advantage is that this platform is intended for the Malagasy people and the discussions in this direction will be more structured, more inclusive and within the reach of everyone, whether decision-makers or citizens. “.
Already operational, Isika aims to be an outstretched hand to public decision-makers. Firstly, to participate in the digital shift made by the Big Island, which aims to become a regional hub in this area by 2029. It is also about disseminating good democratic practices: each elected official, whatever their political party, will be able to meet the needs of the Malagasy people.
Lova Mahanina continues: “ Let’s work together ! Because the work we do is really work of co-construction with them. That is to say, you are given information regarding your needs. Now, it’s also up to you to see, to prioritize these needs. We cannot promise citizens that this will be achieved. That’s not at our level. But, in any case, what we do is really for the Malagasy citizens, for the development of Madagascar, no matter who is in power. »
By rising to the rank of finalists in the pan-African “Innov 4 Democracy” competition, Isika has in any case found a positive response across the continent. The Malagasy platform will still have to convince the general public, invited to vote online, and a jury of digital experts between now and the announcement of the winners on February 2, 2024.