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Technopolis Bill, 2024
by Victor Kapiyo 02 Oct '24

02 Oct '24

Dear listers, The Technopolis Bill 2024 was recently tabled and is coming up for 2nd reading. The objective of this Bill is to provide a comprehensive framework for the establishment of a Technopolis in Kenya and to create the Technopolis Development Authority which will be responsible for the development, governance, planning, management, improvement, and maintenance of every Technopolis established. The establishment of the Technopolis and the role of the Technopolis Development Authority will drive the country towards achieving its economic and development objectives, as outlined in Kenya Vision 2030. See: https://kenyalaw.org/kl/fileadmin/pdfdownloads/bills/2024/TheTechnolopisBil…

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Digital transactions push cheque to an all time low in Kenya
by Mwendwa Kivuva 02 Oct '24

02 Oct '24

The decline in cheque transactions in Kenya have reached a four-year low. This decrease is attributed to the rising preference for digital transactions, driven by advancements in technology and increased adoption of mobile money and internet banking. The shift towards digital payments is seen as a response to the need for more efficient, secure, and convenient financial services. As a result, businesses and individuals are increasingly opting for digital platforms over traditional cheque payments. https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/bd/markets/market-news/cheque-values-fa… Best Regards ______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwendwa-kivuva

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Invitation to the Open Digital Health Summit - 1st to 3rd December, 2024
by Nekesa Were 30 Sep '24

30 Sep '24

Dear Listers, The Open Digital Health Summit <https://fullstac.health/>, a 3-day conference to be held in Nairobi, Kenya from December 1-3, 2024, aims to address the needs of technical stakeholders involved in national digital architecture and the development of digital health solutions. This inaugural summit is themed, "Accelerating Full-STAC on FHIR" and will focus on leveraging open standards, technologies, architectures, and content (the “full-STAC” approach) to accelerate digital transformation in healthcare. Key topics will include: - The latest developments in leveraging HL7 FHIR within digital health solutions - Architecting solutions for interoperability and standards-based digital health architecture using Open Health Stack - Leveraging WHO SMART Guidelines content in digital health solutions - Adapting legacy systems to leverage interoperability standards - Achieving interoperability across multiple systems through HIEs - AI for digital health, including Generative AI and Large Language Models. The summit expects 150-200 participants, primarily software developers, solution and systems architects, and technical program managers from the public and private sectors. Through a blended program of expert-led talks, hands-on workshops, and self-directed learning, participants will gain knowledge and skills to advance open digital health transformation and strengthen national digital health ecosystems. There are two session tracks, (i) "Building with FHIR" for software developers and product teams and (ii) "DPIs for Health" that is geared towards Government Architects. Key partners in organizing the summit include WHO, ITU, HL7, HELINA, Africa CDC, Google Health, IntelliSOFT, Ona, Medic, PATH Digital Square, Medtronic Labs, OpenMRS the McGovern Foundation and others, with the Kenya Health Informatics Association (KeHIA) as the implementing organization. Applications are now open until October 18th following a review period (of 1 week) when successful participants will then be invited to register. Learn more at https://fullstac.health/ If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please reach out to sponsorship(a)fullstac.health Warm Regards, Nekesa.

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Telegram to Share User Data with Authorities
by Abraham Mariita 27 Sep '24

27 Sep '24

New twist after arrest of CEO. Telegram now says it will hand over users' IP addresses and phone numbers to authorities who have search warrants or other valid legal requests. More on this link https://bbc.com/news/articles/cvglp0xny3eo Abraham Mariita | Project Director amariita(a)internews.org Mobile +254-724-911-052 Address Chaka Place, 1st Floor, Junction of Argwings Kodhek road and Chaka road P.O. Box 7219 00200 GPO Nairobi – Kenya INTERNEWS | Local Voices. Global Change. www.internews.org<http://www.internews.org/> | @internews<http://www.twitter.com/internews> | facebook.com/internews<http://www.facebook.com/internews>

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Recall: Telegram to Share User Data with Authorities
by Okande, John Otieno 27 Sep '24

27 Sep '24

Okande, John Otieno would like to recall the message, "Telegram to Share User Data with Authorities ".

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Civil Society Mapping Survey
by Victor Kapiyo 24 Sep '24

24 Sep '24

Dear Listers, As part of the Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) <https://cadeproject.org/cade-mission/> project co-funded by the European Union, Expectation State <https://expectationstate.com/> has been commissioned to conduct *a comprehensive mapping and baseline study on civil society organisations engagement in multilateral and multi-stakeholder Internet Governance processes.* CSOs, especially those from the Global South/Global Majority, continue to be under-represented in these essential discussions. This lack of representation and meaningful engagement, hurts civil society's ability to advocate for critical issues such as human rights, accessibility, inclusion, and gender equality in the digital realm. The baseline survey aims to address this issue by identifying and documenting existing, emerging, and cross-cutting issues and gaps in CSO engagement across key Internet Governance (IG) forums. It will delve into the challenges and opportunities CSOs face in these processes, focusing on capacity strengthening needs and on the top policy asks from civil society. The data gathered will be used to develop actionable recommendations and share best practices, with the objective of enhancing CSO participation in IG. *The online survey is estimated to last 15 – 20 minutes.* The completion of the online survey is entirely voluntary. There are no right or wrong answers; you can refuse to answer any question and terminate the survey at any time. The online survey does not collect personally identifiable information (PII) and will not ask personal questions. Your responses will be treated with the utmost confidentiality. Should you need support or should you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us verengai.mabika(a)expectationstate.com *Survey Link *https://iyvkyxaur7h.typeform.com/to/vqoaVR5N *Deadline:* 30 September 2024 *Learn more about the CADE project here. <https://cadeproject.org/>* Regards, *Victor Kapiyo* Partner | *Lawmark Partners LLP* *Nine Planet Apartments, Nairobi | **Web: www.lawmark.co.ke <http://www.lawmark.co.ke/> * ==================================================== *“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” Zig Ziglar*

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Key Issues in Building Kenya's Digital Future: A Look at KICTANet's Initiatives
by David Indeje 23 Sep '24

23 Sep '24

Dear Listers, Some of the key areas KICTANet is focusing on to build a strong digital future. - The United Nations has taken a step towards regulating the digital world with the launch of the Global Digital Compact. This comprehensive framework aims to govern artificial intelligence (AI) and establish principles for responsible digital cooperation. *Key Points* - AI Governance: The Compact proposes an International Scientific Panel and a Global Policy Dialogue on AI to guide its development and use. - Tech Company Responsibilities: Tech companies are urged to enhance transparency, accountability, and content moderation practices. They should also work to counter potential harms from AI-generated content, such as hate speech and discrimination. - Open Source and Innovation: The Compact promotes open-source technologies and innovation, encouraging tech companies to share their designs publicly. - Internet Connectivity: The UN commits to connecting everyone to the internet, emphasizing increased financial investment in developing countries. - Digital Skills: The Compact outlines the need for national digital skills strategies to equip people with the necessary knowledge for the digital age. - Protecting Children: The Compact calls for action against online violence, hate speech, misinformation, and child sexual exploitation. - Collaboration and Cooperation: The Compact encourages collaboration among governments, tech companies, and international organizations to ensure a safe, secure, and human-centred digital future. More highlights <https://www.linkedin.com/posts/mwendwa-kivuva_governing-ai-for-humanity-ins…> . _________________________________________ - KICTANet with support from the UK government through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, is championing initiatives that empower marginalized communities <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/uk-invests-ksh640-million-to-bridge-digital-divi…>, including women, youth, seniors, and people with disabilities. Equipping them with digital skills and technology for full participation in the digital world. ___________________________________________ - We are advocating for reforms promoting: - *Open Access:* Widespread and affordable digital resources. - *Security:* Protecting users and their data online. - *Human Rights:* Safeguarding fundamental rights like freedom of expression online. <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/building-a-digitally-inclusive-future-key-takeaw…> - We are also analysing existing regulations' <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/ict-sector-working-group-report-launched-part-ii/> impact on Kenya's digital development. - *Building a Skilled Digital Workforce:* KICTANet through its capacity-building pillar, we are equipping Kenyans with digital skills. Here are some of our upcoming events: Empowering SJOs in Kenya to Detect, Investigate, and Track Malicious Infrastructure <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/empowering-sjos-in-kenya-to-detect-investigate-a…>. Digital Safety and Privacy Workshop <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/kictanet-and-apc-our-voices-our-future-safety-an…> - *Combating Misinformation and Strengthening Communication:* We are trying to address the challenges of misinformation in the digital age. <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/harnessing-femtech-for-good-navigating-data-priv…> - *Sustainable Digital Future <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/greening-the-internet-for-east-africas-sustainab…>* *________________________________________________* *Beyond these highlights, we have been covering perspectives from:* - *East African Internet Governance Forum (EAIGF) 2024:* Discussions on youth empowerment <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/eaigf-2024-empowering-youth-for-a-people-centred…>, data analysis <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/eaigf-2024-insights-from-a-data-analysts-perspec…>, legacy media challenges, and building a multistakeholder digital future. - *Maisha Namba Project:* Balancing modernization with public trust in Kenya's new identification system. <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/maisha-namba-project-a-balancing-act-between-mod…> *Visit KICTANet's website <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/>* for deeper dives into these topics and their insightful analysis, research reports <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/reports/>, and advocacy efforts. -- *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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MOICDE Website Down
by Victor Kapiyo 23 Sep '24

23 Sep '24

Just noticed the Ministry of IC & DE website ict.go.ke is down for some reason. Should such downtime on the ICT ministry be a big deal for the sector, or we should just ignore and move on, since "technology failure is normal" and "these things happen".. Screen shots below for attention. [image: image.png] [image: image.png] Regards, *Victor Kapiyo* Partner | *Lawmark Partners LLP* *Nine Planet Apartments, Nairobi | **Web: www.lawmark.co.ke <http://www.lawmark.co.ke/> * ==================================================== *“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” Zig Ziglar*

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LinkedIn’s New Generative AI Feature: What You Need to Know
by Jacinta Wothaya 23 Sep '24

23 Sep '24

Dear listers, LinkedIn has stirred up controversy by introducing a feature allowing the platform and its affiliates to use personal data and user-generated content to train generative AI models <https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a6278444>. While this move reflects the growing trend of data commodification in the age of artificial intelligence, it raises serious concerns regarding user consent and privacy. The new feature allows LinkedIn to leverage the vast amount of data generated by its users to enhance its AI capabilities. This decision is not unexpected; as AI technology becomes more sophisticated, data is increasingly recognized as a valuable asset. However, LinkedIn’s implementation has come under fire for its lack of transparency. *Many users were automatically opted in to this feature without prior notification*, igniting fears over data misuse. The company has just updated the privacy policy on its website <https://www.linkedin.com/legal/privacy-policy#use> to reflect the new changes, effective September 18, 2024. According to LinkedIn's FAQs <https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/answer/a5538339>, opting out means that the platform and its affiliates won’t use your personal data or content to train models going forward. However, this does not affect any training that has already taken place. Furthermore, opting out does not prevent LinkedIn from using your personal data for training non-content-generating generative AI models. Users must object to this latter use by filling out a separate opt-out form provided by LinkedIn <https://nam06.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linke…> . The move appears to contravene several important regulations designed to protect user privacy. Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the EU, Article 6 stipulates that personal data must be processed lawfully, fairly, and transparently. LinkedIn’s failure to notify users may violate these principles, particularly the requirement for informed consent. Furthermore, Article 7 mandates that consent must be freely given and can be withdrawn at any time. LinkedIn's FAQ for its AI training claims that it uses “privacy-enhancing technologies to redact or remove personal data” from its training sets. Notably, the platform states it does not train its models on users located in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, which may provide some level of assurance for users in those regions. Similarly, the Kenya Data Protection Act (2019) emphasizes the importance of consent. Section 26 of this act requires data controllers to obtain explicit consent from users before processing their personal data. By automatically opting users in, LinkedIn could be infringing upon these legal protections, raising significant questions about its compliance with data protection laws. Notably, LinkedIn's recent move isn't an isolated case but is part of a broader trend where tech giants exploit user data to fuel AI advancements. Only recently, Meta allegedly confessed to using all public text and photos of adult Facebook and Instagram users to train its AI models since 2007 <https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/12/24242789/meta-training-ai-models-faceboo…> . Such practices raise important questions about user rights, data ownership, and ethical considerations in AI development. While the potential for innovation is significant, the risks associated with unauthorized data use cannot be overlooked. Tech giants will continue to push the boundaries of data utilization, and we are likely to see increasing scrutiny from governments and regulatory bodies worldwide. Nonetheless, existing laws may not be sufficient to address the complexities introduced by AI and big data, and the need for robust legislation to increase transparency, consent, and accountability in data usage has never been more pressing. At the moment, it is the user's responsibility to stay informed and proactive about their data privacy but we look forward to a time when all tech companies innovate with user protection as the priority. *How to Opt-Out of Your Account Being Used for Training Generative AI * 1. While logged into your LinkedIn account, go to *Settings & Privacy*. 2. Click on *Data Privacy*. 3. Select *Data for Generative AI Improvement* and turn off the feature. 4. To stop your data from being used for non-content-generating AI models, complete the following form provided by LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/help/linkedin/ask/TS-DPRO>. Best, *Jacinta Wothaya,* *Digital Resilience Fellow @**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/>, @*tatua <https://tatua.digital/>* LinkedIn: *Jacinta Wothaya <http://www.linkedin.com/in/jacinta-wothaya-510a8b153>*

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Regulation of mobile surveillance technologies in Kenya
by Christian Mutiga Kibaara 21 Sep '24

21 Sep '24

In the past decade a lot of mobile surveillance technology has become available to the general public on ecommerce sites and tech product retailers. This includes Apple's Airtag which is a tracking device paired to one's phone, concealed cameras and recording devices, among others. I happened across a video discussing Australian authorities in New South Wales discussing offences involving these devices, and how a share of these offences, which are still underreported, are committed by family and domestic abuse suspects. In Kenya, are these products monitored in the market? Is there any regulation as to their use by the general public without security approvals?

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