November 2023 - KICTANet

Re: [kictanet] New Cabinet - Wish List ?
by Barrack Otieno 18 Jul '24

18 Jul '24

Listers, This is indeed good news. We have a lot of hope in Mucheru and Victor Kyalo industry veterans who have indeed worked their way through the trenches. Most importantly we hope to see the return of a multi stakeholder form of engagement in the sector which we have been yearning for in a while. I think as a sector we might need to prepare a wish list for our new leaders and most importantly commit to work with them towards achieving their mandate. The reshuffle is timely still it comes at the end of the year and will allow us to start 2016 on a new slate. Thank you Best Regards On 11/24/15, GG via kictanet <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: > +1 Grace. > > Sending them positive energy! And glad that the two were among the KICTANet > founders. > Rgds. > > --- Original Message --- > > From: "Grace Mutung'u (Bomu) via kictanet" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Sent: 24 November 2015 22:35 > To: ggithaiga(a)hotmail.com > Cc: "Grace Mutung'u (Bomu)" <nmutungu(a)gmail.com> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] New Cabinet > > One of the issues (I think issue no.3) in the President's speech was > accessibility of leaders to wananchi. With Joe and Kyalo I think we shall > have better ears. > > Congratulations! > > May they pass the vetting. > > Regards, > On 24 Nov 2015 21:29, "Evans Ikua via kictanet" < > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: > >> @Ngigi you are right. But in the current dispensation, a CS is still >> expected to be a technocrat, as opposed to the days of yore when minister >> was politician. So they will both be at home in their respective >> positions. >> Especially Victor as the accounting officer with his many years in >> government. That's the right position. >> >> Evans >> On Nov 24, 2015 9:17 PM, "Waithaka Ngigi" <ngigi(a)at.co.ke> wrote: >> >>> Evans, >>> >>> Joe Mucheru & Victor Kyalo are old hands in. KE ICT. Both have been >>> entrepreneurs and then at some point moved on to various ventures. So we >>> shouldn't go wrong ‎with either. >>> >>> However, what's the better fit? Mucheru at CS, Victor at PS or the other >>> way round? Victor CS, Mucheru PS? >>> >>> Waithaka Ngigi >>> >>> Alliance Technologies >>> www.at.co.ke >>> *From: *Evans Ikua via kictanet >>> *Sent: *Tuesday, November 24, 2015 8:50 PM >>> *To: *Ngigi Waithaka >>> *Reply To: *KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions >>> *Cc: *Evans Ikua >>> *Subject: *Re: [kictanet] New Cabinet >>> >>> Congrats Hon Joe! That's a great choice for the ICT industry. Well out >>> H.E. >>> >>> Ikua >>> On Nov 24, 2015 8:45 PM, "waudo siganga via kictanet" < >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: >>> >>>> Congratulations to Joe Mucheru! >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> kictanet mailing list >>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>>> https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >>>> >>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >>>> https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ikua.evans%40gmail.com >>>> >>>> The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform >>>> for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and >>>> regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT >>>> sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and >>>> development. >>>> >>>> KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors >>>> online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and >>>> bandwidth, >>>> share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, >>>> do >>>> not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >>>> >>> >>> >> _______________________________________________ >> kictanet mailing list >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/nmutungu%40gmail.com >> >> The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform >> for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and >> regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT >> sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and >> development. >> >> KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors >> online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and >> bandwidth, >> share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do >> not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >> > -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254-20-2498789 Skype: barrack.otieno http://www.otienobarrack.me.ke/

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Worldcoin tokens (WLD)
by Lydia gachungi 21 Mar '24

21 Mar '24

What is this Worldcoin tokens (WLD)? Are Issues of privacy, data protection taken into account as Kenyans flock to be registered? I am lost on what the objective is and the benefits Lydia

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ROUNDTABLE ON POLICY DISCUSSION ON AI IN KENYA
by nzambi kakusu 20 Feb '24

20 Feb '24

Dear Listers, Greetings from KICTANet! KICTANet will be hosting a Roundtable meeting on Policy Discussion on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Kenya on Thursday, 16 November 2023 from *08:00 am to 12:00 noon. *The objective of the roundtable is to provide a platform for dialogue and engagement on the concerns and opportunities arising from the use of artificial intelligence in Kenya and to identify priority policy actions and potential solutions to promote an enabling environment for AI in Kenya. Please take a look at the concept note and programme <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/policy-discussion-on-artificial-intelligence-in-…> for more details. KICTANet would like to extend the invitation to the listers for *10 slots* on a first come first served basis. To RSVP to the roundtable meeting, please email @nkakusu@kictanet.or.ke <nkakusu(a)kictanet.or.ke>. Warmly, Nzambi *jNzambiKakusu*

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Re: eCitizen is Down
by Paul Magacha 06 Feb '24

06 Feb '24

https://youtu.be/-AylX4C4YKc Sent from my iPhone > On 27 Jul 2023, at 18:36, David Indeje via KICTANet <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: >

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Roll-out of Maisha Namba already manifestly flawed
by Nelson Otieno 05 Dec '23

05 Dec '23

Dear Listers, It is roughly two weeks to the launch of Maisha Namba. As they say, the train has left the station, or so it seems. But wait a minute, the proposed identification systems' weakest link appears to be located at where it ought to matter most - the people, the very sovereign, I must add. That the government has ambushed ordinary Kenyans with a launch date suggests that it has not learned its lessons from *Nubian Human Rights case*, *Katiba Institute cases* and the *Free Kenya Initiative case*. If it did make attempts to learn any lessons then I am certain it got it upside down. I will not, therefore, be surprised if the implementation faces serious legal hurdles and eventually suffers a fate similar to that of its infamous predecessor. What plays out shows how the citizens' interests may be so easily threatened and or slaughtered at the altar of competing economic and political interests conveniently couched in western constructs of so-called development. More so since at such times, as is the case with Maisha Namba, the State that owes the duty to protect is complicit, decides to look the other way or 'feigns evasive lunacy' in clearest of cases. Regards, NO (DPIA legal specialist)

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Invitation to Participate in the Nairobi Digital Readiness Assessment
by Victor Kapiyo 30 Nov '23

30 Nov '23

Dear Listers, The Nairobi City County and UNDP in Kenya extend an invitation to participate in the upcoming Digital Readiness Assessment for Nairobi. This exercise aims to assess the digital maturity and readiness of businesses, government entities, and institutions within Nairobi to better understand the current landscape and identify areas for growth and development in our digital ecosystem with a whole-of-society perspective. Your participation in this assessment will contribute significantly to shaping the future of digital innovation in Nairobi. By sharing your insights and experiences, you will play a vital role in helping us identify opportunities and challenges, enabling us to create strategies that foster a more robust and inclusive digital environment for all stakeholders. *Event Details:* *Date: *Tuesday 5th December 2023 · *Time:* 4:30pm Nairobi Time (GMT+3) *Zoom Registration link:* https://undp.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_M3Z4lCVRTvOiq5TlF6iIUA The assessment will cover various aspects of digital readiness, including but not limited to: · Digital Infrastructure · Technological Adoption · Innovation Ecosystem · Digital Governance · Accessibility and Inclusion This session will guide you through UNDP Digital Readiness Assessment. Your expertise and input are invaluable in ensuring a comprehensive and accurate assessment. Your participation will contribute immensely to the success and impact of this initiative. Please confirm your participation by registering for the Zoom Webinar <https://undp.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_M3Z4lCVRTvOiq5TlF6iIUA>. Regards, Victor

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Open Data Policy – what does it mean?
by David Indeje 30 Nov '23

30 Nov '23

Dear Listers, Did you know that, Open data is not the same as ‘opening’ all government data, but it’s about classifying and deciding which public datasets would spur innovation when made open and available to innovators to mine and create digital products that solve our pressing socio-economic problems? Today, we learn something new! https://www.kictanet.or.ke/what-is-an-open-data-policy-and-how-does-it-bene…

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Invitation to an Afro-feminist Perspectives on Data Governance Session on November 27, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm via Zoom.
by nzambi kakusu 29 Nov '23

29 Nov '23

Dear Listers, Greetings! KICTANet <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> together with the Collaboration on International ICT Policy for East and Southern Africa (CIPESA <https://cipesa.org/>) and Internews <https://internews.org/> are hosting a virtual session on Afro-feminist perspectives on data governance on November 27, 2023, from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm via Zoom. This session will explore the critical role of Afro-feminist thought in shaping data governance practices that address the unique challenges faced by women and marginalized genders in Africa. The objective of the session is to help participants understand the gender biases that exist in data governance practices and the repercussions of data protection regimes that perpetuate misogyny and bias against women and gender minorities and explore the concept of gender-responsive data protection and privacy. This session will contribute to regional discussions on online safety and data protection, drawing lessons learned from implementing data protection frameworks in Africa, and advocate for policy alternatives and amendments, improvements to fill gaps identified during policy implementation, and data governance initiatives. We invite you to participate in the Afro-Feminist Perspectives on Data Governance Discussion from 02:00 pm to 03:30 pm via *Zoom*. Please see the concept note and programme for more details on the KICTANet events page on the website <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/what-we-do/events/> To confirm your attendance, please register here <https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwucuigpzovHdw9ENsEkP_8_nmbSTWD4n…> . Warmly, *NzambiKakusu*

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Meet Our New Gender Lead and Legal Fellow
by David Indeje 28 Nov '23

28 Nov '23

[image: Oyier and Linda.png] KICTANet is pleased to announce the appointment of Cherie Adhiambo Oyier as Program Officer, Women's Digital Rights and Linda Gichohi as a Legal Fellow/Program Assistant for Data Protection Monitoring Policies. They are joining us in advancing the network's guiding philosophy of encouraging synergies for ICT policy-related activities and initiatives. Cherie Adhiambo Oyier is a lawyer and the founder of Oyier and Company Advocates, a firm that specializes in data protection, privacy, AI, cyber security, and digital rights. She has extensive experience in research, compliance advisory, and dispute resolution in the digital space. She has also collaborated with various organizations to conduct research and shape digital rights policies in Kenya. She is a seasoned speaker and presenter on topics related to digital rights, privacy, and AI at various prestigious forums. She has also served as a fellow at the Center for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Policy. Linda Gichohi is a lawyer, data protection consultant, digital rights enthusiast, legal tech expert, and certified professional mediator. She is the founder of the Advocacy and Awareness Centre Africa (AAC Africa) Initiative, a platform that promotes digital rights, gender equality, and social justice. She is also the digital ambassador of Cyber221, a Senegal-based organization that raises awareness on cybersecurity, child online protection, privacy, and digital rights. She has extensive experience and expertise in the intersection of technology, gender, and the law. She is a member of the Multi-stakeholder Advisory Group Committee of the Kenya Youth Internet Governance Forum, a legal fellow of the Kenya ICT Action Network, and an SDG advocate. Both Cherie and Linda have impressive academic backgrounds and have completed courses on data protection, internet governance, and artificial intelligence from reputable institutions. They are also affiliated with various organizations and networks that share their passion and vision for the digital realm. We are delighted to welcome Cherie and Linda to the KICTANet family and look forward to working with them to advance the network's objectives and activities. We are confident that they will bring their valuable skills, knowledge, and experience to the network and contribute to its growth and impact. -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *KICTANet Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/18428106/admin/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/>

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[KICTANet] Call for active participation in ICT Reforms: Shape the Future of Kenya's ICT Sector.
by lgichohi＠kictanet.or.ke 27 Nov '23

27 Nov '23

I've invited you to fill out the following form: MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION AND THE DIGITAL ECONOMY PUBLIC NOTICE: CALL FOR COMMENTS FOR THE REFORM OF THE INFORMATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND DIGITAL ECONOMY SECTOR To fill it out, visit: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSens6VUn55YKRXT9qzBd9FVtK-AbQPi1zL… Dear Listers, I hope this message finds you well. We are reaching out to inform you about a significant opportunity to actively contribute to the ongoing reform process in the Information, Communications, and Digital Economy sector in Kenya. The Ministry of Information, Communication, and the Digital Economy has extended an invitation for public comments to shape the future of the ICT landscape. As members of the Kenya ICT Action Network, our collective input is crucial in influencing these reforms. How You Can Contribute: We encourage each member to actively participate by completing the provided form, either in its entirety or focusing on their specific sector, ensuring a comprehensive representation of their insights in the reform process. Contribute by providing public comments, expressing your insights and recommendations for the enhancement of the ICT sector. Your valuable perspectives will be collated and submitted to the Ministry of ICT in alignment with their public call. Submitting Your Comments: To streamline this process, we have created this form for your convenience. Kindly and share your thoughts either comprehensively or specifically within your sector. Your active involvement will ensure a well-rounded representation of our network's expertise and concerns. Your contributions are integral to shaping the future of the ICT landscape in Kenya. Let us seize this opportunity to make a meaningful impact together. Thank you for your dedication to advancing the ICT sector, and we look forward to receiving your insightful contributions. Best regards, Linda Gichohi. Legal Fellow - Kenya ICT Action Network KICTANet invites you to fill out this form: Google Forms: Create and analyze surveys.

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Re: KICTANet Digest, Vol 189, Issue 35
by June Okal 24 Nov '23

24 Nov '23

Hongera and welcome aboard Cherie and Linda! Looking forward to working together and seeing the impact on your respective projects! Well in! Kind Regards, June On Fri, 24 Nov 2023 at 07:35, <kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: > Send KICTANet mailing list submissions to > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > > https://mm3-lists.kictanet.or.ke/mm/lists/kictanet.lists.kictanet.or.ke/ > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > You can reach the person managing the list at > kictanet-owner(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of KICTANet digest..." > > Today's Topics: > > 1. Meet Our New Gender Lead and Legal Fellow (David Indeje) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Fri, 24 Nov 2023 07:31:53 +0300 > From: David Indeje <dindeje(a)kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: [kictanet] Meet Our New Gender Lead and Legal Fellow > To: "Kenya's premier ICT Policy engagement platform" > <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Message-ID: > < > CAA-x2+r-WFM2q182GASHEiUdCrpPQaJBbCc4cWB_2QZKMj1ThA(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: multipart/related; > boundary="000000000000d5b5e8060ade7286" > > [image: Oyier and Linda.png] > > KICTANet is pleased to announce the appointment of Cherie Adhiambo Oyier as > Program Officer, Women's Digital Rights and Linda Gichohi as a Legal > Fellow/Program Assistant for Data Protection Monitoring Policies. > > They are joining us in advancing the network's guiding philosophy of > encouraging synergies for ICT policy-related activities and initiatives. > > Cherie Adhiambo Oyier is a lawyer and the founder of Oyier and Company > Advocates, a firm that specializes in data protection, privacy, AI, cyber > security, and digital rights. She has extensive experience in research, > compliance advisory, and dispute resolution in the digital space. She has > also collaborated with various organizations to conduct research and shape > digital rights policies in Kenya. She is a seasoned speaker and presenter > on topics related to digital rights, privacy, and AI at various prestigious > forums. She has also served as a fellow at the Center for Artificial > Intelligence and Digital Policy. > > Linda Gichohi is a lawyer, data protection consultant, digital rights > enthusiast, legal tech expert, and certified professional mediator. She is > the founder of the Advocacy and Awareness Centre Africa (AAC Africa) > Initiative, a platform that promotes digital rights, gender equality, and > social justice. She is also the digital ambassador of Cyber221, a > Senegal-based organization that raises awareness on cybersecurity, child > online protection, privacy, and digital rights. She has extensive > experience and expertise in the intersection of technology, gender, and the > law. She is a member of the Multi-stakeholder Advisory Group Committee of > the Kenya Youth Internet Governance Forum, a legal fellow of the Kenya ICT > Action Network, and an SDG advocate. > > Both Cherie and Linda have impressive academic backgrounds and have > completed courses on data protection, internet governance, and artificial > intelligence from reputable institutions. They are also affiliated with > various organizations and networks that share their passion and vision for > the digital realm. > > We are delighted to welcome Cherie and Linda to the KICTANet family and > look forward to working with them to advance the network's objectives and > activities. We are confident that they will bring their valuable skills, > knowledge, and experience to the network and contribute to its growth and > impact. > > > -- > *Kind Regards,* > > *David Indeje* > > > *KICTANet Communications *_____________________________________ > +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 > KICTANet portals > KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter > <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn > <https://www.linkedin.com/company/18428106/admin/> | Facebook > <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/> >

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Proposed Kshs. 1 Million IPRS Annual Subscription Fee Could Stifle Innovation
by Kelvin Kariuki 24 Nov '23

24 Nov '23

*Dear Listers*, The government recently, through the State Department of Immigration and Citizen Services, revised the charges of some of its services including the *IPRS *charges as shown below: [image: image.png] The *Integrated Population Registration System (IPRS)* is a *centralized database* that serves as the authoritative source of information on all registered individuals residing in Kenya, including both *citizens *and *foreign nationals*. It provides automated services for verifying *national identification numbers* and* passport numbers* for both government and private entities, majorly the financial sector (banks) and telecommunications companies (Safaricom and Airtel). The applications of these services extend far beyond the financial and telecommunications sectors, with a *vast array of potential use cases*. However, the *introduction of a Ksh. 1 Million annual subscription fee and the hike in the verification fee from Ksh. 5 to Ksh. 20 *raise concerns about the accessibility of these services for* startups and smaller organizations*. Due to the public outcry, the government revoked this gazette notice and published a new one with minimal changes, IPRS charges remaining the same. Now the Ministry of Interior has invited *public participation* on the proposed charges which can be submitted via email *info.ctizenservices(a)interior.go.ke <info.ctizenservices(a)interior.go.ke> * on or before *8th Dec, 2023*. In my view, they should consider the approach by the *Office of the Data Protection Commissioner *where private sector companies are categorized in terms of their *annual turnover* and *number of employees* so as to be inclusive to start-ups. That said, the Ksh. 1 Million annual subscription is still too high and should be revised downwards. It is rare for a *Software of a Service to charge both a "Subscription Fee" and "Per Service Fee".* They should consider getting rid of the "Subscription Fee" altogether and also *reduce the "Verification Fee" to at most Ksh. 5*. *I will appreciate your perspectives on this matter*. Looking forward to your input. -- Best Regards, Kelvin Kariuki Assistant Lecturer Multimedia University of Kenya Faculty of Computing and Information Technology Twitter Handle: @teacherkaris Alt email: kkariuki(a)mmu.ac.ke Mobile: +2547 29 385 557 The Lord is my Shepherd

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Tele-gone! Telegram down. Is it an Internet Shutdown?
by Mwendwa Kivuva 24 Nov '23

24 Nov '23

Telegram has been down in Kenya. Users are reporting they can only access it using a VPN. An analysis by different platform including Ooni Observatory shows that the blocking of Telegram is across all networks. - https://twitter.com/OpenObservatory/status/1725202738370290053 Users across the major ISPs including Safaricom, Artel, and Jambonet reported not able to connect to Telegram. What is the experience of listers here? Have you had a challenge connecting to Telegram over the past week? The alleged reason for the blockage is to prevent cheating of the KCSE National examinations that are allegedly shared in the Telegram platform. Why only block Telegram? What is the percentage of Telegram usage compared to other popular platforms like WhatsApp and Signal? Can the blockade of Telegram in Kenya be considered a form of internet shutdown? Internet shutdown is defined as a deliberate disruption of internet or electronic communications, rendering them inaccessible or effectively unusable. The shutdown of one platform, such as Telegram, can be considered a form of internet shutdown, as it restricts access to a specific communication platform. Internet shutdowns are often used by governments to control information flow, stifle dissent, or prevent the coordination of protests and demonstrations. They can have significant social, economic, and political implications, affecting freedom of expression, access to information, and the ability to conduct business. After Telegram, what else will be shutdown? What will be the next excuse? What direction do we want to take as a country?

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Fwd: PUBLIC PARTICIPATIONGazette Notice 15492 - REVISION OF CHARGES, FEES AND LEVIES RELATING TO IMMIGRATION AND CITIZEN SERVICES
by Linda Gichohi 21 Nov '23

21 Nov '23

Echoing your sentiments, I vouch for the recommendation on mirroring the ODPC's approach to enable fair considerations. There is need to review the 50,000/= connection fee as well. We need to create an enabling environment especially for the digital economy. https://twitter.com/InteriorKE/status/1724483979896627258?t=2xRSiw7XaTEarSc… Increasing those charges will likely inhibit data-driven solutions, hampering innovation. Businesses relying on identity verification will also be affected since they shall be experiencing heightened operational costs. Higher fees may discourage startups and smaller organizations from incorporating IPRS services into their innovations. In general i believe this might end up stifling creativity and technological advancements that could benefit from reliable identity verification. I did not see any changes in the Passport section as well as many citizens had reservations for. The increment is high for the common mwananchi. More efforts should be put into sorting the passport backlog first. Overall the individuals or organizations unable to afford these services might end up being left out of the digital ecosystem or missing out on different opportunities, including the economical impact. There is need for a calculated balance towards the bigger picture. https://twitter.com/InteriorKE/status/1724483979896627258?t=2xRSiw7XaTEarSc… From: Kelvin Kariuki via KICTANet <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Date: Tue, 21 Nov 2023, 12:09 Subject: [kictanet] Proposed Kshs. 1 Million IPRS Annual Subscription Fee Could Stifle Innovation *Dear Listers*, The government recently, through the State Department of Immigration and Citizen Services, revised the charges of some of its services including the *IPRS *charges as shown below: [image: image.png] The *Integrated Population Registration System (IPRS)* is a *centralized database* that serves as the authoritative source of information on all registered individuals residing in Kenya, including both *citizens *and *foreign nationals*. It provides automated services for verifying *national identification numbers* and* passport numbers* for both government and private entities, majorly the financial sector (banks) and telecommunications companies (Safaricom and Airtel). The applications of these services extend far beyond the financial and telecommunications sectors, with a *vast array of potential use cases*. However, the *introduction of a Ksh. 1 Million annual subscription fee and the hike in the verification fee from Ksh. 5 to Ksh. 20 *raise concerns about the accessibility of these services for* startups and smaller organizations*. Due to the public outcry, the government revoked this gazette notice and published a new one with minimal changes, IPRS charges remaining the same. Now the Ministry of Interior has invited *public participation* on the proposed charges which can be submitted via email *info.ctizenservices(a)interior.go.ke <info.ctizenservices(a)interior.go.ke> * on or before *8th Dec, 2023*. In my view, they should consider the approach by the *Office of the Data Protection Commissioner *where private sector companies are categorized in terms of their *annual turnover* and *number of employees* so as to be inclusive to start-ups. That said, the Ksh. 1 Million annual subscription is still too high and should be revised downwards. It is rare for a *Software of a Service to charge both a "Subscription Fee" and "Per Service Fee".* They should consider getting rid of the "Subscription Fee" altogether and also *reduce the "Verification Fee" to at most Ksh. 5*. *I will appreciate your perspectives on this matter*. Looking forward to your input. -- Best Regards, Kelvin Kariuki Assistant Lecturer Multimedia University of Kenya Faculty of Computing and Information Technology Twitter Handle: @teacherkaris Alt email: kkariuki(a)mmu.ac.ke Mobile: +2547 29 385 557 The Lord is my Shepherd _______________________________________________ KICTANet mailing list -- kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke To unsubscribe send an email to kictanet-leave(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke Unsubscribe or change your options at: https://mm3-lists.kictanet.or.ke/mm/lists/kictanet.lists.kictanet.or.ke/ Mailing List Posts Online: https://posts.kictanet.or.ke/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/KICTANet/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/KICTANet/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kictanet/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbcLVjnPtTGBEeYLGUb2Yow/ KICTANet is a multi-stakeholder Think Tank for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. KICTANet is a catalyst for reform in the Information and Communication Technology sector. Its work is guided by four pillars of Policy Advocacy, Capacity Building, Research, and Stakeholder Engagement. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. PRIVACY POLICY: See https://mm3-lists.kictanet.or.ke/mm/lists/kictanet.lists.kictanet.or.ke/ KICTANet - The Power of Communities, is Kenya's premier ICT policy engagement platform.

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Fastest Internet ...
by Willis Muriu 17 Nov '23

17 Nov '23

In other news, China launches world's fastest internet: 'Can transmit 150 movies in 1 second' | The Business Standard (tbsnews.net) <https://www.tbsnews.net/tech/china-launches-worlds-fastest-internet-can-tra…> Regards, Willis Muriu Cold Solutions East Africa +254 715 530 349

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AI in Kenya: Opportunities, Challenges and Policy Actions
by David Indeje 16 Nov '23

16 Nov '23

Dear Listers, Some interesting pointers from the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy when it comes to embracing adopting AI in Kenya. Here are the full remarks from Eng. John Kipchumba Tanui, Mbs, Principal Secretary. Key Note: AI in Kenya: Opportunities, Challenges and Policy Actions | KICTANet Think Tank <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/key-note-ai-in-kenya-opportunities-challenges-an…> -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *KICTANet Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/18428106/admin/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/>

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The Rise of Tech-Driven Solutions in East Africa: Trends and Opportunities
by David Indeje 15 Nov '23

15 Nov '23

Dear Listers, East Africa is a region that is undergoing rapid transformation, thanks to the adoption and innovation of various technologies. From mobile money and fintech to e-learning and edtech, to agritech and food security, to health tech and telemedicine, to clean energy and green tech, the region is witnessing a surge of tech-driven solutions that are addressing some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities on the continent. In this inaugural newsletter, we review some of the key technology trends that have happened in East Africa, based on the latest news and reports. <https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/rise-tech-driven-solutions-east-africa-trend…> -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *KICTANet Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/18428106/admin/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/>

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Strengthening Kenya's ICT Environment with a New Partnership Agreement
by David Indeje 10 Nov '23

10 Nov '23

Dear Listers, We are excited to announce that we have signed a partnership agreement with The Slovak Agency for International Development Cooperation, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Nairobi that shares our vision and values for encouraging synergies for ICT policy-related activities and initiatives. This partnership will enable us to increase awareness and engagement in cybersecurity and privacy in Kenya, as well as to foster collaboration and exchange of best practices between the two countries. For details: KICTANet and Slovakia Sign ICT Partnership | KICTANet Think Tank <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/kictanet-and-slovakia-sign-ict-partnership/> -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *KICTANet Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/18428106/admin/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/>

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An Overview of the Maisha Namba Project: Kenya’s New Digital Identity System
by David Indeje 10 Nov '23

10 Nov '23

Dear Listers, The article discusses the Maisha Namba project, which is a new digital identity system for Kenya that aims to replace the failed Huduma Namba project. The project consists of four elements: the Maisha Namba, the Maisha Card, the Digital ID, and the National Master Population Register. The article explains the features and benefits of each element, as well as the potential security and privacy challenges. The article also provides some background information on the previous Huduma Namba project and why it was unsuccessful. https://www.kictanet.or.ke/understanding-maisha-namba-kenyas-new-digital-id… -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *KICTANet Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/18428106/admin/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/>

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Did Safaricom stop US roaming?
by waudo siganga 08 Nov '23

08 Nov '23

Greetings, Does anyobe know if Ssfaricom stopped roaming service in the USA? Kind regards, Waudo

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Blank tape levy comes to effects in Kenya.
by Mwendwa Kivuva 07 Nov '23

07 Nov '23

The cost of ICT devices had gone up after the blank tape levy came into force. What is a Blank Tape Levy? A nominal fee imposed on the sale of blank media and devices, such as CDs, DVDs, USB drives, and smartphones, which can be used to make personal copies of copyright content. The collected funds are then distributed to creatives. What is affected? Any device that can be used to store copyrighted content like a phone, computer, laptops, smart watches, CDs, tapes, memory card, TV, game consoles, printing papers, photocopying machines, hard disks or USB disk. Why? This levy is imposed by the Copyright law to compensate copyright holders for potential revenue lost when individuals make private copies of their copyrighted works, such as music, movies, or software. Private copying allows individuals to make personal backups or copies of copyrighted material for their own use, such as making a backup of a music CD or copying a movie to a personal device. What is the commencement date? 15th September 2023. Read more about the law here https://copyright.go.ke/sites/default/files/downloads/FAQs%20on%20Blank%20T… Reuben Kagame sued to halt release of the levy to creatives to ensure the equitable distribution of the collected funds without excluding any category of copyright owners. Read more here https://www.google.com/search?q=blank+tape+levy+kigame&rlz=1CDGOYI_enKE1017…

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UNESCO Guidelines for the governance of digital platforms Launched
by Victor Kapiyo 07 Nov '23

07 Nov '23

Dear listers, UNESCO has launched the Guidelines for the Governance of Digital Platforms. These Guidelines outline a set of duties, responsibilities and roles for States, digital platforms, intergovernmental organizations, civil society, media, academia, the technical community and other stakeholders to enable the environment where freedom of expression and information is at the core of digital platforms governance processes. The Guidelines were produced through a multi-stakeholder consultation that gathered more than 10,000 comments from 134 countries. These global-scale consultations fostered inclusive participation, ensuring a diversity of voices to be heard, including those from groups in situations of marginalization and vulnerability. Cultivating an Internet of Trust is a shared responsibility among all stakeholders. It calls upon us all to sustain an enabling environment for freedom of expression and the right to information. Read more - https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000387339 Regards, Victor Kapiyo Partner | Lawmark Partners LLP Nine Planet Apartments, Nairobi | Web: www.lawmark.co.ke ==================================================== “Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” Zig Ziglar

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Public Participation: Have Your Say on the Draft Kenya Space Bill 2023
by David Indeje 06 Nov '23

06 Nov '23

Dear Listers, The Kenya Space Agency is developing a legal framework to regulate and promote the development of the space sector in Kenya. The Draft Kenya Space Bill 2023 aims to provide for the establishment, management, and functions of the Kenya Space Agency, as well as the regulation of space activities and related matters. We invite you to review the Draft Kenya Space Bill 2023 and share your views and comments. You can access the draft bill and other relevant documents from the links below. Kenya Space Agency (ksa.go.ke) <https://ksa.go.ke/docs/kenya-space-bill> Please send your written submissions by email to secretariat(a)ksa.go.ke or by post to the Director-General, Kenya Space Agency, by Monday 20 November 2023 at 5:00 p.m. -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *KICTANet Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/18428106/admin/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/>

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Citizen Data protection anomaly at Ministry of Interior
by Mwendwa Kivuva 05 Nov '23

05 Nov '23

In the age of data protection, the Ministry of Interior is publishing at scale the names of all citizens who have successfully applied for passports. Every week since the CS initiated the rapid results initiative, the Immigration Department has been publishing publicly the names of all passports ready for collection. Kindiki may have been doing a good thing - expediency, but as they say, the road to hell is paved by good intentions. The list is available on the immigration department website here http://immigration.go.ke/category/rri-7/ for all passports ready for collection for 6th-10th November 2023. More data is available for other weeks. The data has tracking numbers, full passport holder names, and collection dates. Through quick analysis, this week alone has 18,654 names published and distributed as follows; Kisii 1500 Kisumu 1692 Eldoret 1787 Embu 1750 Mombasa 1552 Nakuru 1000 Nairobi 9373 Questions 1. What can go wrong? What can bad actors do with this data? 2. Do data subjects need to give consent for such data to be published in a public portal? 3. Does the government have the capacity to safely handle mass citizen data? 4. How have other government agencies provided verification services without compromising on privacy? IEBC had such a challenge before the 2022 elections and they instituted a verification process for accessing voter registration data. 5. Does the Ministry of Interior have the capacity to roll out the Digital ID dubbed Maisha namba? 6. Is the ODPC under the Data Protection Act 2019 up to the task of regulating and enforcing compliance of government agencies? 7. How can we help the government in handling citizen data? For demonstration purposes, what are the implications of a data breach at scale? Just this year, there were allegations that Fuliza scammers gained access to the National Registration Bureau Database and added new citizens. The freshly minted ghost citizens went ahead and borrowed close to Ksh500 million through Safaricom’s Fuliza overdraft facilities. https://ntvkenya.co.ke/crime/eight-suspects-arrested-in-kes-500-million-ful…

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