GISPA Internet Conference 2025

Theme: “Ghana’s Digital Future: Policy, Infrastructure, and the Strategic Role of GIX”
Date: 25th – 26th November 2025
Venue: Kofi Annan Centre of Excellence
Organized by: Ghana Internet Service Providers Association (GISPA)

Conference Objectives

• Strengthen local ISP technical capacity through hands-on training.
• Explore policy directions shaping Ghana’s digital transformation.
• Highlight infrastructure as the backbone of the digital economy.
• Position the Ghana Internet Exchange (GIX) as a strategic national and regional asset.
• Promote collaboration among government, ISPs, and digital ecosystem partners.

DAY ONE – TECHNICAL TRAINING WORKSHOP

Theme: “Building Local Capacity for a Connected Future”

Audience: ISP Technicians (Members & Non-Members)

Focus: Knowledge Transfer and Peer Collaboration

1. Introduction

This training framework is designed to build technical capacity among network engineers, NOC teams, and infrastructure managers within Ghana’s Internet ecosystem. It focuses on developing the competencies necessary to design, operate, and secure Internet Exchange Point (IXP) infrastructure while promoting best practices in peering and interconnection.

The program is jointly presented by the Ghana Internet Exchange (GIX) and the Ghana Internet Service Providers Association (GISPA) to strengthen local Internet resilience, enhance technical collaboration, and promote knowledge sharing among member networks and stakeholders.

2. Core Modules

1. Module 1: Introduction to Internet Exchange Points

Objective: To provide a comprehensive understanding of the role and value of IXPs in modern Internet ecosystems.
Key Topics: Definition, purpose, and evolution of IXPs; economics of peering; performance benefits; IXP ecosystem and architecture.
Outcome: Participants will understand how IXPs improve interconnectivity and why local peering is critical to digital ecosystem growth.

2. Module 2: Networking Fundamentals Refresher

Objective: Reinforce foundational networking knowledge relevant to IXP operations and routing.
Key Topics: TCP/IP model, Autonomous Systems (ASNs), BGP overview, IP addressing and subnetting, and routing table optimization.
Outcome: Participants will refresh knowledge essential for peering and routing operations.

3. Module 3: Peering and Routing at IXPs

Objective: Provide hands-on knowledge of peering relationships and routing policies.
Key Topics: Peering models, bilateral vs multilateral peering, route servers, BGP policy control, and peering agreements.
Outcome: Participants will be able to configure and manage BGP sessions and apply routing best practices.

4. Module 4: IXP Infrastructure and Operations

Objective: Explore the design, deployment, and management of IXP infrastructure.
Key Topics: Switch fabric architecture, VLAN configuration, monitoring systems, traffic analysis, and troubleshooting.
Outcome: Participants will understand how to maintain a resilient IXP and address operational incidents effectively.

5. Module 5: Security and Best Practices

Objective: Introduce security frameworks and operational best practices for reliable IXPs.
Key Topics: DDoS mitigation, IRR and RPKI, MANRS principles, physical and logical security, and incident response.
Outcome: Participants will gain knowledge on securing routing environments and mitigating risks.

6. Module 6: Hands-On Labs and Simulations

Objective: Apply theoretical concepts through guided, practical exercises.
Labs: Configuring BGP, implementing route filters, simulating peering scenarios, using Wireshark, Bird, and Quagga.
Outcome: Participants will develop practical, real-world experience in IXP operations and peering management.

3. Optional Advanced Modules

• Network Automation: Automating BGP configurations with Ansible/Python and API-based provisioning.
• IPv6 Deployment and Peering: IPv6 design, dual-stack routing, and transition mechanisms.
• Case Studies: Insights from GIX, LINX, DE-CIX, NAPAfrica, and AFIX.

4. Delivery Approach

• Mode: Instructor-led and lab-based training.
• Duration: 3–5 days, modular structure.
• Format: Presentations, discussions, labs, and assessments.
• Tools: Wireshark, Bird, FRRouting, Grafana, Ansible.
• Assessment: Pre/post evaluation and configuration assignments.

5. Expected Outcomes

• Understand IXP architecture, operations, and governance.
• Configure and troubleshoot BGP-based peering.
• Implement routing security and monitoring systems.
• Design scalable, secure IXP infrastructures.
• Foster collaboration within Ghana’s Internet community.

Training Schedule Summary

08:30 – 09:00 Registration

09:00 – 09:15 Welcome & Opening Remarks – GISPA Executive Secretary

09:15 – 09:30 Overview of Training Objectives – Lead Facilitator

09:30 – 10:30 Modules: Technical Sessions, Labs, and Peer Collaboration

10:30-10:40 Snack Break

10:00 –12:20 Modules: Technical Sessions, Labs, and Peer Collaboration

12:20 – 12:50 Lunch

 12:50 – 15:00 Snack Break

15:00 – 16:30 Modules: Technical Sessions, Labs, and Peer Collaboration

16:30 Close of Day Training Participants & Group Photograph

 

DAY TWO – GISPA INTERNET CONFERENCE 2025

Theme: “Ghana’s Digital Future: Policy, Infrastructure, and the Strategic Role of GIX”
Date: 26th November 2025
Duration: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM (4 hours)

Conference Schedule

Time	Activity
08:30 – 09:00	Registration & Networking
09:00 – 09:10	Welcome Remarks – GISPA Chairman
09:10 – 09:20	Goodwill Message – Partner Organisation
09:20 – 09:40	Guest of Honour Address – Hon. Minister for Communications Digital Technology and Innovation Remarks on advancing Ghana’s digital future through inclusive policy, infrastructure investment, and collaboration.
09:40 – 10:00	Keynote Speech – [Distinguished Speaker to be Confirmed] Theme: “Ghana’s Digital Future: Policy, Infrastructure, and the Strategic Role of GIX.”
10:00 – 11:30	Panel Discussion • Ghana’s Digital Future: Policy, Infrastructure, and the Strategic Role of GIX”
11:30 – 12:00	Open Forum
12:05 – 12:25	Certificate & Recognition Ceremony • Certificates of Participation – Training Attendees
12:25 – 12:40	Closing Remarks – GISPA Executive Secretary
12:40	Networking & Close