Introduction In the intricate tapestry of the digital world, where data flows ceaselessly across networks, ensuring the integrity and security of Internet routing is paramount. Yet, the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), the backbone of Internet routing, has long been confronted with vulnerabilities that expose it to manipulation and hijacking. Here comes the Resource Public Key Infrastructure (RPKI) – a cryptographic framework designed to fortify BGP and safeguard Internet routing against malicious actors.

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Internet shutdowns are on the rise. In 2023, 18 countries, including eight in Africa, experienced 124 shutdown events, according to Pulse. Although Zimbabwe was not one of these countries, it has experienced several confirmed and alleged shutdown events (Figure 1).

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As a result of the Number Resource Organization (NRO) Strategic Review Process, which started in 2022, the NRO agreed to work towards providing a robust, coordinated, and secure Resource Public Key Infrastructure (RPKI) service as one of the main priorities. The RPKI Steering Group, comprising routing security experts from all the Regional Internet Registries (RIRs), collaborated to define the job description for the RPKI Program Manager and a global search was conducted in 2023.

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AFRINIC is the Regional Internet Registry (RIR) for Africa and the Indian Ocean and currently serves 56 economies across its service region. In 2023, AFRINIC achieved significant milestones in its activities despite the ongoing constraints of operating without a CEO and quorate Board throughout the year. The year was quite significant as it marked the final year of the 2021 - 2023 Strategic Plan. We operated within three core pillars, each aimed at delivering value to AFRINIC’s members and stakeholders: Services to Members Ensuring responsible stewardship of Internet number resources. Delivering accurate registry services. Developing and delivering products and services for members.

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The Internet relies heavily on the Domain Name System (DNS) to translate human-readable domain names (example.com) into IP addresses (198.51.100.10, DB8:C001:ABCD:09C0:876A:130B:0000:130F), facilitating the seamless transfer of data and communication across the globe.

While DNS is known for its critical role at the backbone of the Internet,

its vulnerabilities have made it an enticing target for cyber threats.

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The Domain Name System, well known under the acronym DNS, is a critical service used in every single communication that we people, systems, and applications do on the Internet.

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