January 2025 - KICTANet

Call for 2025 KIGF MAG Volunteers
by Liz Orembo 05 Feb '25

05 Feb '25

Greetings listers and Happy New Year! KICTANet wishes to invite volunteers from the different stakeholder groups to assist in the preparation of the Kenya Internet Governance Forum (KIGF) 2024. The Kenya Internet Governance Forum (KIGF) is an annual meeting that brings together various stakeholder groups to dialogue on ICT and Internet policy. The Steering Team otherwise known as the Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) role is to assist in convening the Kenya IGF by preparing the programme and schedule and to improve the IGF process through community consultations, outreach and stakeholder engagement. MAG members volunteer and serve in their personal capacity, and are expected to have established linkages with their respective stakeholder groups. Please review the MAG TORs <https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Kqbd7qX1DaojqhN2g9NkrAweTfrefynrUUGsVCf…> This year, KIGF will take place on 14th May 2025. More about this will be communicated soon, but please save the date for now. To express interest, please send an email to *info(a)kictanet.or.ke <info(a)kictanet.or.ke>* with the subject line "Kenya IGF 2024 MAG" indicating your stakeholder group, expertise and why you are interested in joining the steering committee of KIGF 2020 by 30th January 2025. Membership to the steering team is voluntary and all materials produced by KICTANet are published under creative commons licenses <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/>. Organisations from various stakeholder groups are encouraged to nominate representatives. For more information or clarification, feel free to get in touch. Best regards, Liz Orembo, Chairperson, 2024 KeIGF MAG Committee. --

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KICTANet Driving Digital Rights and AI Governance in Kenya
by David Indeje 31 Jan '25

31 Jan '25

Dear Listers, Greetings. This is a summary of recent key events undertaken by KICTANet, including a validation meeting for a needs assessment and curriculum for Human Rights Civil Society Organizations (HR-CSOs), participation in the Annual Data Privacy Conference 2025 in Eldoret, and a workshop on AI Statement of Principles. Additionally, the handover of 150 computers to Mandera County by the UK Government and KICTANet. *Key Events* - *Validation Meeting on Needs Assessment and Curriculum for HR-CSOs <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/kenya-urgent-call-for-stronger-digital-rights-co…>:* This virtual meeting focused on identifying critical capacity-building needs for HR-CSOs to effectively advocate for digital rights. Key findings will inform the development of a tailored training curriculum to equip HR-CSOs with the necessary skills and knowledge. - *Annual Data Privacy Conference in Eldoret: <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/celebrating-data-privacy-insights-from-the-annua…>* This conference brought together key stakeholders to discuss and address critical data privacy concerns in Kenya, emphasizing the importance of public awareness, stakeholder collaboration, and strengthening the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner. If you missed our statement to mark the day, here it is. <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/kictanet-celebrates-data-privacy-day-2025-safegu…> - *AI Statement of Principles Workshop: <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/kenya-emerges-as-a-leader-in-responsible-ai-deve…>* This workshop <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/shaping-the-future-of-ai-in-kenya/> focused on refining Kenya's approach to AI governance, ensuring ethical, safe, and inclusive AI development. Key outcomes include the development of ethical guidelines, addressing algorithmic biases, and exploring the role of AI in driving economic development and social equity in Africa. - *Handover of 150 computers to Mandera County by the UK Government and KICTANet. <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/uk-government-kictanet-empowers-mandera-with-150…>* This initiative, under the UK’s Digital Access Programme and the Strengthening Digital Communities Project, aims to bridge the digital divide and empower local communities in Mandera County. The computers will provide critical access to technology and information for youth, women, persons with disabilities, and senior citizens, contributing to Kenya's vision of a digitally empowered nation. The 150 computers, equipped with accessibility features and assistive software, will be strategically distributed to digital hubs across the county, ensuring equitable access to all. - Join our programme to become a community digital champion in Busia and Mandera under the Strengthening Digital Communities Project that aims to improve digital skills and access in the country. Here are the application links: Busia <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdodoIZaPgWef04rMHcStjneaN40F-U4cW…> and Mandera <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd9hQcXzyt5Arqy8aY8pHSE3UmqCTj3evx…> . These events demonstrate KICTANet's commitment to advancing digital rights, data protection, and responsible AI governance in Kenya. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, conducting research, and developing targeted training programs, KICTANet is empowering civil society organizations and contributing to a more inclusive and equitable digital future for all Kenyans. -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Gov’t wants all cybercafés fitted with CCTV surveillance, users identified
by Victor Kapiyo 30 Jan '25

30 Jan '25

The government seeks to license all internet cafés in Kenya afresh and introduce new controls in what it says are efforts to streamline regulation and spur the growth of the local ICT sector. Read more: https://www.citizen.digital/tech/govt-wants-all-cybercafes-fitted-with-cctv… What do you think?

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What is DeepSeek and why is it disrupting the AI sector?
by Victor Kapiyo 29 Jan '25

29 Jan '25

Chinese startup DeepSeek's launch of its latest AI models, which it says are on a par or better than industry-leading models in the United States at a fraction of the cost, is threatening to upset the technology world order. The company has attracted attention in global AI circles after writing in a paper last month that the training of DeepSeek-V3 required less than $6 million worth of computing power from Nvidia H800 chips. DeepSeek's AI Assistant, powered by DeepSeek-V3, has overtaken rival ChatGPT to become the top-rated free application available on Apple's App Store in the United States. Read more : https://www.reuters.com/technology/artificial-intelligence/what-is-deepseek… This seems like a good opportunity for African countries to develop and implement low-cost AI solutions.

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Email
by Kelvin Kamau 28 Jan '25

28 Jan '25

my email: zipapakelvin909(a)gmail.com *Regards,* *Macharia Kelvin K.* *Mobile: 0720103404/ 0740366728* *Water Resources Authority - Rift Valley Basin Area* *R. ICT officer / DBO : // Cyber Security Analyst Eng.*

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New Starlink POP to Improve Latency and Capacity
by Victor Kapiyo 27 Jan '25

27 Jan '25

Dear Listers, Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet service, is significantly improving latency for users in Africa by routing them through a new "point of presence" (POP) in Nairobi, Kenya, reducing latency from 100-200ms to around 30ms. The POPs connect the Starlink satellite network to terrestrial internet infrastructure and are crucial for enhancing both capacity and latency; the closer a user is to a POP, the faster their connection speed. Currently, Starlink operates 37 POPs globally, with a concentration in North America but expanding rapidly into other regions like Africa and Europe to meet growing demand and improve service in underserved areas. Read more: https://www.pcmag.com/news/what-is-a-starlink-pop-how-ground-stations-impro… For users of starlink, have you noticed the changes? Victor

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Re: Validation Meeting for Report on Processing of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Data on 23rd January 2025
by Angela Minayo 26 Jan '25

26 Jan '25

DearListers, ARTICLE 19 Eastern Africa invites you to a validation meeting of a report on processing sexual orientation and gender identity data on the 23rd January 2025 from 9:00am to 11:00 am on Microsoft Teams. Please find attached the concept note for more information. To attend please register here <https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/da4e0447-7c10-40a2-bf18-a40af64232…> Best Regards, *Angela Minayo Kidiavai*

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Fwd: [DCAD] Call for Mentor: DCAD Fellowship Program for IGF2025
by Nicodemus Nyakundi 25 Jan '25

25 Jan '25

Dear listers, This may interest you. The IGF's Dynamic Coalition on Accessibility and Disability (DCAD) is calling for DCAD Fellowship Mentor as indicated in forwarded email. Best wishes, Nicodemus Nyakundi Digital Accessibility for PWDs KICTANet Sent from my phone ---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Muhammad Shabbir Awan via DCAD <dcad(a)lists.igf-dcad.org> Date: Sat, 25 Jan 2025, 02:28 Subject: [DCAD] Call for Mentor: DCAD Fellowship Program for IGF2025 To: Dynamic Coalition on Accessibility and Disability < dcad(a)lists.igf-dcad.org> Cc: Muhammad Shabbir Awan <mshabbirawan(a)gmail.com> Dear DCAD Members, The Internet Governance Forum Dynamic Coalition on Accessibility and Disability (IGF-DCAD) is thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity to serve as a *Mentor* for the IGF-DCAD Fellowship Program for IGF2025. This voluntary role is pivotal to supporting persons with disabilities in their meaningful participation in the IGF processes, promoting inclusion, and advancing digital accessibility. *Key Details:* - *Responsibilities:* - Mentor fellows and guide them in preparing for and participating in IGF2025. - Provide insights into IGF processes, discussions, and sessions. - Share best practices in digital accessibility and disability inclusion. - Monitor fellows’ progress, provide feedback, and report on their achievements. - Serve on the Fellowship Selection Committee and collaborate with the DCAD team. - *Eligibility Requirements:* - Expertise in digital accessibility and disability inclusion. - Comprehensive understanding of IGF structures and processes. - Proven fellowship and mentoring experience. - Strong organizational, communication, and progress-monitoring skills. - Preference for candidates with lived experience of disability. This is a voluntary position with significant time commitment before and during the IGF2025. However, reasonable travel expenses for in-person participation in IGF2025 may be reimbursed upon request and approval. For the full announcement and application details, please visit: *https://igf-dcad.org/mentor-announcement/* <https://igf-dcad.org/mentor-announcement/> *Application Deadline:* 03 February 2025, 15:00 UTC *Email for Submission:* info(a)igf-dcad.org BR, Dr. Muhammad Shabbir, Coordinator, Dynamic Coalition on Accessibility and Disability (DCAD), Twitter: https://twitter.com/MShabbirPhD/ _______________________________________________ DCAD mailing list SEND MESSAGE - DCAD(a)lists.igf-dcad.org SETTINGS - http://lists.igf-dcad.org/listinfo.cgi/dcad-igf-dcad.org MEMBERS - https://igf-dcad.org/members/ WEBSITE - https://igf-dcad.org/

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Study: AI and Innovation
by Samuel Waithaka 24 Jan '25

24 Jan '25

Dear Listers, The study is still ongoing. This survey is part of the study to discover what executives and leaders are doing to drive innovation, in light of the rapid advancements in GenAI, and how prepared they are. We request you to take 2 minutes or so to fill out the short survey; in return, we will send you the full analysis of the results so you can rate yourself, if interested. https://forms.gle/NTKW2wE7NEW1fGBKA -- Samuel Waithaka Cell: +254 720 317929 | +254 770 451280 http://twitter.com/samwaithaka

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Consultancy Services: WiDEF Curriculum Development
by David Indeje 23 Jan '25

23 Jan '25

Dear Listers, KICTANet, with the support of USAID and CARE through the Women in the Digital Economy Fund (WiDEF), is implementing a project to bridge the gender digital divide exacerbated by the rural-urban divide. This project empowers women in 10 rural counties with the skills and knowledge to leverage technology for economic empowerment. *Objective* We seek a consultant(s) to develop a comprehensive and modularized curriculum and an illustrative guidebook, videos and offline resources that will be used to enhance digital literacy skills among women living in rural areas of Kenya to use technology for their economic empowerment. Interested consultants should submit their applications to info(a)kictanet.or.ke, by 31st January, 2025. For further details regarding the application process, timelines, and contact information, check our careers page https://www.kictanet.or.ke/careers/ -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Re: Validation Meeting on the Report on Balancing Freedom of Expression and Data Protection: Journalistic Data Protection Exemption 23rd January 2025
by Angela Minayo 23 Jan '25

23 Jan '25

Dear Listers, ARTICLE 19 Eastern Africa is pleased to invite you to a validation meeting on a report on the Journalistic Data Protection Exemption on 23rd January 2025 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm EAT. Please find attached the concept note with further details. This is a virtual meeting and to attend you have to register here <https://events.teams.microsoft.com/event/0171a0f4-a6d3-4d5e-919b-c495a318ed…> . Best Regards, *Angela Minayo Kidiavai*

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Invitation: Validation Meeting on Needs Assessment and Curriculum for HR-CSOs in Kenya
by David Indeje 23 Jan '25

23 Jan '25

Dear Listers, We invite you to a validation meeting on the needs assessment and curriculum development for human rights civil society organizations <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/validation-meeting-on-needs-assessment-and-curri…> (HR-CSOs) in Kenya. This meeting is part of the KenSafeSpace Action, an initiative by KICTANet, Internews, and Internet without Borders (IWB) to empower HR-CSOs in advocating for a democratic, safe, and inclusive digital environment. The meeting will focus on validating the findings of a needs assessment conducted to identify key challenges and capacity-building priorities for HR-CSOs. The assessment evaluated awareness levels of digital rights violations, including hate speech, disinformation, cyberbullying, and online gender-based violence. Your valuable input will help shape the development of a tailored curriculum to address the specific needs of HR-CSOs in Kenya. *Meeting Details* - *Date: Thursday, 23 January 2023* - *Time: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM* - *Place: Zoom * - *[Zoom Meeting Lin <https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/EexwsOjdSuaGWogxQ8bfwA#/registrati…>k]* We look forward to your participation in this important discussion. *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Open Position for Open Source Consultants
by Evans Ikua 23 Jan '25

23 Jan '25

Dear Listers, *ITU *and *UNDP *are collaborating with the *European Union* to implement the *Open Source Ecosystem Enabler (OSEE)* program. One of the pillars is the implementation of an *Open Source Program Office *(OSPO) in two countries initially and Kenya has been selected to host one of the *OSPOs*. Towards this effort, ITU has openings for *Open Source Consultants* and interested candidates are invited to apply for this position. BACKGROUND INFORMATION The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), together with other UN partners are collaborating to advance the maturity of the adoption of Digital Public Goods (DPGs) and Open-Source for digital government services and to enable global, regional and national Open-Source ecosystems through: 1. The development of Open-Source Ecosystem Enablement Framework to guide work that promotes structural changes to accelerate the adoption of Open-Source software and data. 2. Pilot initiatives using the Framework in selected countries to establish Open-Source Technical capabilities to act as focal points to strengthen local Open-Source ecosystem. 3. Share knowledge globally and build skills to replicate models of successful Open-Source ecosystem development through producing relevant knowledge products, trainings, and developing communities of practice which can be further be adopted by governments at different levels. Please follow the following link for more details and if interested in this position: https://jobs.itu.int/job/Home-Based-Open-Source-Consultant-Roster/946143655/ -- *Kind Regards,Evans Ikua,* Cell: +254-722-955831 *----------------------------------------------------* *Data Protection | Information Security | ISO Management Systems | Green Mobility | Clean Energy*

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Study: Innovation in Generative AI Era
by Samuel Waithaka 21 Jan '25

21 Jan '25

Dear Listers, The survey is part of a study that seeks to understand what executives and leaders are doing in their efforts to drive innovation, in light of the rapid advancements in GenAI, and how prepared they are in a fast-changing world. Kindly take a minute or so to fill out the short survey. In return, we will send you the full analysis of the results so you can rate yourself, if interested. https://forms.gle/615ay15uNj8snW5r7 -- Samuel Waithaka Cell: +254 720 317929 http://twitter.com/samwaithaka

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Re: Cross check CDC posting for busia county Matayos constituency.
by Liz 17 Jan '25

17 Jan '25

How can I know if I was selected to train? On Fri, 17 Jan 2025 at 16:42, Michael Ajuma via KICTANet < kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: > Okey > > On Fri, 17 Jan 2025, 16:38 David Indeje, <dindeje(a)kictanet.or.ke> wrote: > >> Dear Michael, >> >> You will be notified once due diligence has been completed. The process >> is being expedited so that each and everyone who completed the training is >> onboarded. We apologise for the delay. >> >> >> >> *Kind Regards,* >> >> *David Indeje* >> >> *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> >> * Communications *_____________________________________ >> +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 >> KICTANet portals >> Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> >> ______________________________________ >> >> _______________________________________________ > 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/ > WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaQsX4w6mYPIctLsGh1K > > 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. > -- *Elizabeth W Kiarie* Strategic Management and Communication Specialist Tel:+254722737330 Email: lizkiarie(a)gmail.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethkiarie

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Contribute to the Draft Kenya AI Strategy 2025 – 2030
by David Indeje 17 Jan '25

17 Jan '25

Dear Listers, The* Ministry of Information, Communication and the Digital Economy* (MoIC&DE) through the *AI Steering Committee* is in the process of developing the *Kenya AI National Strategy <https://ict.go.ke/sites/default/files/2025-01/Kenya%20National%20AI%20Strat…>*. The Strategy aims to enable the country to harness the transformative potential of AI to drive the country's socio-economic development. In accordance with the requirements of the constitution of Kenya, which mandates public participation in policy making, the ministry has invited members of the public, stakeholders and all interested parties to submit their reviews, comments and recommendations on the draft strategy which will inform its review. *KICTANet <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/>* is a key stakeholder and would like to provide feedback. As a valued member of KICTANet community, you are requested to spend a few minutes on the AI Strategy and provide your feedback using the following template that was provided by the MoIC&DE. KICTANet will then compile your feedback and forward them to the ministry. Our focus areas will be on: CHAPTER 4: AI STRATEGY FOUNDATIONS This chapter outlines the foundational principles and key pillars that form the basis of the Kenya National AI Strategy. It establishes the framework within which AI will be developed, deployed, and governed in Kenya, ensuring that AI technologies align with the country’s national priorities and ethical standards. The foundations of the strategy are designed to foster a robust, inclusive, and sustainable AI ecosystem, enabling Kenya to harness the transformative potential of AI for socio-economic development. The chapter also addresses the importance of building strong governance frameworks, enhancing digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, and ensuring that AI benefits all segments of society, particularly marginalized and underserved communities. Through these foundational elements, the strategy aims to position Kenya as a leader in AI innovation and ethical AI practices in Africa and globally. CHAPTER 5: STRATEGIC DECISIONS Chapter 5 presents the strategic decisions that will guide the implementation of the Kenya National AI Strategy. It outlines the key actions and initiatives that will drive the development and deployment of AI technologies across various sectors of the economy. These strategic decisions are designed to address critical areas such as AI governance, capacity building, infrastructure development, and fostering innovation. The chapter emphasizes the importance of aligning AI efforts with national development goals, ensuring that AI contributes to the country’s sustainable growth while upholding ethical standards. Identifying priority areas for AI implementation and setting clear milestones, this chapter serves as a roadmap for the successful realization of Kenya's AI vision, ensuring that the country remains competitive in the rapidly evolving global AI landscape. Kindly share your comments or you can alternatively use this Google Form. https://forms.gle/nuxMsLgA7YEQ1XDM6 -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Digital Divide in Kenya: Data Reveals Disparities
by David Indeje 16 Jan '25

16 Jan '25

Dear Listers, This week, the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics has published various documents that reveal that we have a long way to go to ensure equitable access and usage to ICT as a country. Below are key findings from the 2023/24 Kenya Housing Survey - *Uneven ICT Access:* Significant disparities exist in computer and internet access across Kenyan counties. - *Urban-Rural Divide:* Urban areas exhibit higher ICT usage than rural areas. - *Gender Gap:* Males generally have higher internet usage than females, particularly in rural areas. - *Regional Disparities:* Nairobi leads in ICT access, while counties like Mandera and Marsabit lag. - *Economic Impact:* Higher ICT access correlates with greater contributions to the Gross County Product (GCP). KICTANet believes that bridging the digital divide is crucial for inclusive economic growth in Kenya and investing in digital infrastructure and literacy programs in underserved regions is essential. https://www.kictanet.or.ke/digital-divide-in-kenya-ict-access-and-usage-dat… -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Join Us in Tracking Online Gender-Based Violence Across Africa
by Neema Mujesia 16 Jan '25

16 Jan '25

Dear Listers, Online Gender-Based Violence (OGBV) is on the rise globally, affecting not just high-profile individuals such as politicians, journalists, and human rights defenders, but also ordinary day-to-day internet users. To address this pressing issue, KICTANet has developed an OGBV Tracker to document incidences of OGBV across Africa and monitor its prevalence. The data collected will play a crucial role in advocating for effective policies to combat OGBV at both national and regional levels. We are committed to publishing reports on the status of the tracker to highlight trends and inform actionable solutions. We need your support! Let’s track OGBV together and create a safer online space for everyone. Share your observations, reports, or any relevant data through the tracker. [*Click here to access the OGBV Tracker Form <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSchC0y2jNLGbrW1QS2ix3Iw7OSmJ5S1ozD…>* ] [*Click here to access the OGBV Tracker Map*] <https://ogbv.kictanet.or.ke/feed> Your input matters—help us make an impact! [image: KICTANet-OGBV-Tracker.png] With Best Regards, *Neema Mujesia,* Communications Officer@*KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> @NeemaMasitsa <https://x.com/NeemaMasitsa?t=j6CNaieXaw74Mleb0-7YcA&s=09>| LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/neema-masitsa-254350222/> ___________________________. KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | X <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/kictanet/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/> | Instagram <https://www.instagram.com/kictanet/> | Youtube <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbcLVjnPtTGBEeYLGUb2Yow/videos> | TikTok <https://www.tiktok.com/@kictanet> | WhatsApp <https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaQsX4w6mYPIctLsGh1K> KICTANet: *Transformed communities through the power of ICTs *

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Deputy Director at the Communications Authority of Kenya - USF?
by Odhiambo Washington 16 Jan '25

16 Jan '25

I have a feeling we need him to appraise us on how the USF is being used to "unlock opportunities in unserved and underserved areas". Or does such information get published on a portal that I am the only one not aware of? Also, shouldn't CA be engaging with stakeholders on how/where the USF should be used, on an agreed priority basis? [image: Screenshot 2025-01-16 094317.png] -- Best regards, Odhiambo WASHINGTON, Nairobi,KE +254 7 3200 0004/+254 7 2274 3223 In an Internet failure case, the #1 suspect is a constant: DNS. "Oh, the cruft.", egrep -v '^$|^.*#' ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ :-) [How to ask smart questions: http://www.catb.org/~esr/faqs/smart-questions.html]

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Invitation to Review the Draft Kenya AI Strategy 2025–2030
by A Mutheu 14 Jan '25

14 Jan '25

Dear KICTANet Listers, I hope this email finds you well and thriving in the new year! I am reaching out to kindly invite you to review the *Draft Kenya AI Strategy 2025–2030*, as comments are due by *19th January 2024*. As professionals deeply invested in the well-being and advancement of our tech sector, it is pivotal that our collective opinions are heard in shaping this crucial strategy. Artificial Intelligence is a revolutionary technology—offering immense opportunities for growth and innovation, while also presenting potential challenges. As such, it is vital that we ensure Kenya’s national AI strategy is both *robust* and *flexible*, providing a framework that fosters innovation without stifling creativity. Your insights and expertise would be invaluable in shaping a strategy that positions Kenya as a leader in ethical and transformative AI. Let us take this opportunity to contribute to a policy that reflects our shared vision for the future of Kenya’s technology sector. Wishing you a wonderful start to the year! Stay happy, Mutheu. *The Kenyan Draft AI Strategy 2025-2030 can viewed via this link ...https://ict.go.ke/sites/default/files/2025-01/Kenya%20National%20AI%20Strategy%20%28Draft%29%20for%20Public%20Validation%20%20%5B14-01-2025%5D.pdf <https://ict.go.ke/sites/default/files/2025-01/Kenya%20National%20AI%20Strat…> * [image: image.png]

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Data Protection Commissioner sued for handling Privacy Cases
by Victor Kapiyo 14 Jan '25

14 Jan '25

A petition has been filed at the High Court challenging the Data Protection Commissioner's (ODPC) authority to adjudicate cases involving personal data violations and privacy rights in Kenya. The Petitioner argues that the ODPC's actions are unconstitutional, claiming the office has usurped the High Court's jurisdiction to handle matters concerning fundamental rights and freedoms, as stipulated in Article 23(1) of the Kenyan Constitution. The petition seeks a determination on whether the ODPC's actions are within its legal mandate and whether it has overstepped the High Court's constitutional jurisdiction. https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/bd/corporate/companies/data-protection-…

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Report - Content Moderation of Kiswahili on Social Media Platforms
by Victor Kapiyo 13 Jan '25

13 Jan '25

This report investigates how social media platforms moderate Kiswahili content, focusing on Kenya and Tanzania due to their large Kiswahili-speaking populations and differing approaches to moderation. Main findings: The study reveals that Instagram and TikTok are the most popular platforms in the region, with concerns rising about misinformation and hate speech in the Kiswahili online sphere. Three main approaches to Kiswahili content moderation were identified: a global approach (Meta) applying uniform policies, a local approach (TikTok) attempting cultural context consideration but limited by primarily Kenyan moderators, and a multi-country approach (JamiiForums) employing native moderators from each country for better contextual understanding. Content moderation vendors often misrepresent the job's realities, failing to adequately prepare moderators for graphic content, leading to inconsistencies and inaccuracies in content evaluation. The report highlights the challenges of moderating low-resource languages like Kiswahili, emphasizing the need for more inclusive and representative approaches that account for linguistic diversity and cultural nuances across different East African countries. https://cdt.org/insights/moderating-kiswahili-content-on-social-media/

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Meta's Shift Away from Fact-Checking: A Dangerous Precedent?
by David Indeje 10 Jan '25

10 Jan '25

Dear Listers, Meta's recent decision to replace its third-party fact-checking program with a "Community Notes" system has sent shockwaves through the tech world and raised serious concerns about the future of online discourse. While CEO Mark Zuckerberg frames this shift as a return to "foundational principles of free speech," critics argue that it prioritizes unchecked freedom over responsible content moderation. This move has significant implications, including: - Increased Risk of Misinformation - Heightened Concerns Over Hate Speech - Potential for Political Manipulation Cherie Oyier, Programs Officer-Women’s Digital Rights, KICTANet says this shift away from responsible content moderation poses a serious threat to the integrity of online discourse and raises critical questions about the role of technology companies in upholding democratic values. https://www.kictanet.or.ke/meta-ditches-fact-checkers-sparks-global-debate-… *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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ODPC Draft Strategic Plan for the next five years
by Grace Githaiga 09 Jan '25

09 Jan '25

Happy 2025 Listers The ODPC has produced the following draft documents: 1. Draft Strategy from ODPC <https://www.odpc.go.ke/draft-odpc-strategic-plan-2/#> and 2. The Data Protection (Compliance audit) Regulations 2024) <https://www.odpc.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/24-06-2024-The-Data-Prote…> We will be submitting comments on January 17, 2024. Valerie Waswa will take the lead in collecting views on these two important documents. Highly appreciated. -- Kind regards, Dr. Grace Githaiga*,* CEO@*KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> @ggithaiga <http://twitter.com/ggithaiga> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracegithaiga/> ___________________________ KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | Twitter <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/kictanet/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/> | Instagram <https://www.instagram.com/kictanet/> | Youtube <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbcLVjnPtTGBEeYLGUb2Yow/videos> | TikTok <https://www.tiktok.com/@kictanet> KICTANet: *Transformed communities through the power of ICTs*

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Building Multi-Generational Multi-National African Tech Corporations
by Eric M K Osiakwan 09 Jan '25

09 Jan '25

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