AFRINIC policies are a set of guidelines and processes that determine the manner in which Internet Number Resources (IPv4 Addresses, IPv6 Addresses and Autonomous System Numbers) are distributed by AFRINIC to operators of IP networks in Africa. The method through which these policies are developed (commonly referred to as the Policy Development Process, or PDP) is open, transparent and bottom up.
Policies are developed by the Policy Development Working Group - PDWG, which constitutes anyone, anywhere that is interested in participating to Policy Development in the region, irrespective of nationality, gender, age, race, wealth and health. The PDWG is administered by two co-chairs, also elected by the same community that constitutes it, at AFRINIC Public Policy Meetings.
AFRINIC implements the output of policy discussions from the PDWG, and does not in itself set any policies.The Policy Development Process is very simple. If any community member would like to propose a new process, improve on current practices, or get rid of some currently implemented policies, the process is as easy as posting his or her idea to the policy discussion list rpd[at]afrinic.net. The co-chairs will work the idea into a policy proposal and post it for open discussion, until it is presented at our bi-annual Public Policy Meetings for approval through consensus. Once approved and ratified by the AFRINIC Board, the policy becomes active as part and parcel of the already existing policies and processes that AFRINIC follows for distribution of IP addresses on the continent.
Anyone running an IP network needs to be keen on following the AFRINIC PDP, as any discussions, decisions and outcomes could directly or indirectly impact critical business decisions and operations and possibly the business' bottom line. Participation to the PDP is through either (or both) of the following methods:
- Subscribe to the This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. mailing list to follow and contribute to online discussions. The list and all archives are open to anyone.
- Attend the bi-annual AFRINIC Public Policy Meetings which are usually held in the months of May/June and November/December every year.
If you have an idea and want to submit it as a policy proposal, please check here for guidelines.
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