PERSPECTIVES DIGITAL RIGHTS AND ACCESS TO INFORMATION SERIES 10 FIREPROOFING THE DIGITAL PUBLIC SPHERE IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA Some Notes for Citizen Journalists, Independent Media, and Civil Society Organisations Tamuka Charles Chirimambowa March, 2024 This paper explores the impact of internet platforms on democratising the public sphere, challenging traditional media monopolies, and confronting ruling elites’ propaganda. Focusing on the Sub-Saharan context, the study delves into the challenges the digital public sphere faces, drawing attention to authoritarian backlashes in response to increased civic engagement and transparency demands. The paper provides a broader analysis, identifying discernible trends in repressive strategies employed by African regimes. It argues for a nuanced, country­specific approach to understanding and countering these challenges, emphasising the need for a context-aware perspective to deepen democratic practices.