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Mozilla to shut down its Mastodon server, Mozilla.social, on December 17th
by Victor Kapiyo 21 Sep '24

21 Sep '24

Mozilla announced that it will be closing down its Mastodon server, Mozilla.social, on December 17th, 2024. The decision comes as part of Mozilla's strategic shift to focus its resources on its core products, including the Firefox web browser and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI). Mozilla.social, which was launched as an experiment in the open social web or 'fediverse', had a relatively small user base compared to other Mastodon instances. Users of Mozilla.social will have the option to download their data or migrate their accounts to another Mastodon instance before the shutdown. Mozilla's decision highlights the challenges faced by smaller players in the decentralized social media landscape and underscores the need for continued innovation and support for open platforms. Read more: https://techcrunch.com/2024/09/17/mozilla-exits-the-fediverse-and-will-shut…

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Apply for Llama 3.1 Impact African Hackathon 2024 for AI Innovators
by Grace Githaiga 19 Sep '24

19 Sep '24

Listers This might be of interest to some of you. AfriLabs is excited to invite *Artificial Intelligence (AI) startups* to apply for the *Llama 3.1 Impact African Hackathon *funded by *Meta and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).* Offering a chance to win up to *$100,000* in funding, this fully sponsored, in-person event will take place in Kigali, Rwanda, from October 8-10, 2024. We are seeking AI developers, software engineers, tech enthusiasts, students in technical fields, gender studies professionals, and startup founders from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Rwanda to participate. *About the Hackathon* The hackathon is focused on fostering AI innovation that addresses social impact issues such as gender sensitivity, linguistic diversity, innovation & creativity, technical implementation, economic development & business potential, education & skills development, and public services, etc. across Africa. Participants will collaborate in cross-disciplinary teams to develop AI-driven solutions that eliminate gender bias in digital content, while ensuring linguistic inclusivity & diversity using Meta's Llama AI technology. *Key Highlights* - Fully Sponsored Event: All travel, accommodation, and daily needs covered for participants. - Mentorship: Receive guidance from industry experts at Meta, BMGF, and AfriLabs. - Funding Opportunities: Showcase your solution and have the opportunity to apply directly for the Llama Impact Grants, with a chance to receive up to $100,000 in funding through the regional track to further enhance and scale your solution. Additionally, you could secure up to $500,000 in seed funds through the global track of the Llama Impact Grants to support the launch of your project. - Promoting Diversity: Drive innovation in AI by addressing gender sensitivity and linguistic diversity in Africa. *Eligibility* - Citizenship/Residency: Applicants must be citizens and residents of one of the four eligible African countries: *Nigeria, Rwanda, Kenya,* or *South Africa*. While citizenship is required, participants should also have legal residency status in these countries to ensure local engagement and relevant contextual understanding. - Age: 18 years and above. - Background/Expertise: Innovators, AI developers, entrepreneurs, and students with relevant experience in AI, technology, gender studies, or digital solutions. - Interest and Motivation: Applicants must submit evidence of previous AI-related projects. - Availability: Full Participation in the three-day hackathon event (holding 8th - 10th October 2024) and any virtual engagements or preparations leading up to the event. - Language Proficiency: Proficient understanding of English, as this will be the primary language used during the hackathon. Applicants must be from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, or Rwanda. Applications are open until September 21, 2024. To apply, please click on the apply tab below. Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to AI for good while gaining mentorship and networking with leaders in AI innovation. [image: Apply Now] [image: Facebook icon] <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> [image: Instagram icon] <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> [image: Twitter icon] <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> [image: LinkedIn icon] <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/track/click?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> [image: Logo] *Copyright (C) 2024 AfriLabs. All rights reserved.* You are receiving this email because you have participated in an AfriLabs activity and part of the AfriLabs extended community Our mailing address is: AfriLabs 18, Khartoum Street, Wuse Zone 5 Abuja 900285 Nigeria Want to change how you receive these emails? You can update your preferences <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/profile?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6e8&i…> or unsubscribe <https://afrilabs.us13.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=95c992335bb6df06e38c3f6…> -- 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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UNESCO offers recommendations for regulation and national policies on AI
by Gachungi, Lydia 18 Sep '24

18 Sep '24

UNESCO offers recommendations for regulation and national policies on AI (g20.org)<https://www.g20.org/en/news/unesco-offers-recommendations-for-regulation-an…> In an interview with the G20 website, UNESCO Assistant Director General for Communication and Information Dr. Tawfik Jelassi, discussed media freedom, information literacy, the safety of journalists, and tackling disinformation with the initiative "Internet for Trust." He also addresses digital transformation, artificial intelligence ethics, and the inclusion of indigenous languages and people living with disabilities in the digital space.

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Major action against an encrypted communication platform used for criminal activities - Press Conference on 18 September
by Jacinta Wothaya 17 Sep '24

17 Sep '24

Dear Listers, On Wednesday, 18 September 2024, Europol will host a press conference to announce the results of a significant international law enforcement operation targeting an encrypted communication platform linked to major criminal activities, including drug trafficking, homicides, and money laundering. *Details of the Press Conference:* - *Date:* Wednesday, 18 September 2024 - *Time:* 11:00 CEST - *Location:* Europol Headquarters, The Hague, Netherlands - *Livestream:* Available on Europol’s homepage <https://www.europol.europa.eu> *Speakers Include:* - Europol - French National Gendarmerie (Gendarmerie Nationale) - Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) - Australian Federal Police (AFP) - Irish An Garda Síochána - Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) *Countries and Organisations Involved:* Australia, Canada, France, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Sweden, United States, Europol, Eurojust The upcoming event may be of interest to you, especially in light of the recent arrest of Telegram's CEO and developments surrounding encrypted communication platforms. The decision is expected to have substantial implications for the use of encrypted communications platforms and Tatua is especially interested in how it will impact the use of encryption by at-risk communities, particularly activists and whistleblowers who rely on encrypted messaging for safety. 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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Re: Discussion: Shaping Kenya's Cybersecurity Ecosystem
by David Indeje 16 Sep '24

16 Sep '24

Dear Listers, *Day 3:* The CMCA has profound implications for businesses, individuals, and the digital economy in Kenya. Its effectiveness in balancing innovation with cybersecurity, addressing emerging technologies, and protecting individual rights is a subject of ongoing debate. Today, we encourage discussion on the challenges and opportunities presented by the CMCA and explore potential solutions to enhance its effectiveness in shaping a secure and vibrant digital future for Kenya. *Section 5: Impact on Businesses and Individuals.* 1. How has the CMCA impacted businesses in Kenya in terms of cybersecurity practices and investments? 2. Do you believe the CMCA adequately protects the rights of individuals in the digital space? 3. Have there been any unintended consequences of the CMCA on businesses or individuals? 4. How has the CMCA affected the digital economy in Kenya? *Section 6: An analysis of the effectiveness of the CMCA to embrace emerging technologies and the cyberthreats they pose therein.* 1. How does the CMCA balance the need for innovation with cybersecurity? 2. Does the Act create an environment conducive to technological advancement or are there any provisions that stifle innovation? 3. How well does the CMCA address emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, Internet of Things (IoT), quantum computing and cryptocurrency? What can be done to enhance its ability to address these lacunas (if any). 4. How can the legal framework provided by the CMCA be enhanced to regulate the use of emerging technologies, while protecting individual digital rights? *Section 7: General Questions.* 1. Are there any legal uncertainties or ambiguities in the Act that hinder its effectiveness? 2. What are the capacity-building needs of law enforcement and the judiciary in addressing cybercrimes related to emerging technologies? 3. Is the country’s cybersecurity infrastructure sufficiently robust to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies? 4. Any other relevant comment that you may wish to include as regards the CMCA? -- *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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Online Disinformation in Electoral Processes: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Democracies
by Victor Kapiyo 14 Sep '24

14 Sep '24

Dear listers, UNESCO is launching a global series of webinars for judicial operators as part of its AI and the Rule of Law Programme. The webinars will address: Gender Rights in the Judiciary in the era of Artificial Intelligence The Impact of AI on Law Enforcement The exacerbation of Online Disinformation in the Electoral Process through Artificial Intelligence, and The Practical Applications and Transformative Use Cases of Artificial Intelligence in the Judicial System. While the benefits of Artificial Intelligence are undoubtedly remarkable, it is essential that we delve into the profound legal and ethical implications that accompany its integration into our societies, including judicial systems. The Global Webinar Series will delve into critical topics to judicial operators and the legal profession at large. The Series aims to explore and unpack the implications raised by AI within the judiciary, and to encourage the potential of AI is harnessed both ethically and responsibly while promoting human rights and access to justice. https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/online-disinformation-electoral-processe…

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Joint Memorandum on the Assembly and Demonstrations Bill, 2024
by David Indeje 11 Sep '24

11 Sep '24

Dear Listers, We, Access Now and KICTANet, as Kenyan non-governmental and civil society organizations with expertise in human rights and information and communication technologies (ICTs), submit this joint memorandum <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/mdocs-posts/joint-memorandum-on-the-assembly-and…> in response to the call for input on the Assembly and Demonstrations Bill, 2024. We urge Parliament to adopt our recommendations to ensure the Assembly and Demonstrations Bill upholds the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression in Kenya. -- *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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Happening Now: East Africa Internet Governance Forum; 11 - 12 Sept 2024
by Keith Andere 11 Sep '24

11 Sep '24

dear Listers, The 11th edition of the East Africa IGF is happening now in Kampala Uganda. You can follow the conversation virtually via the link *HERE <https://tinyurl.com/48ujdnnw>* -- *Kind Regards,* *Keith ANDERE* Internet 4 Development *"The internet could be a very positive step towards education, organisation and participation in a meaningful society." ~ Noam Chomsky*

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ATU Secretary-General calls for Africa’s unified voice in telecommunications standards.
by Neema Mujesia 10 Sep '24

10 Sep '24

Dear Listers, On August 12, 2024, the Africa Preparatory <https://atuuat.africa/event/3rd-and-final-african-preparatory-meeting-for-w…>Meeting for the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly (WTSA) 2024, organized by the Africa Telecommunications Union (ATU), gathered key African stakeholders in Sandton, South Africa. John Omo, ATU Secretary General, emphasized the importance of presenting a unified African stance on issues such as spectrum allocation, emerging technologies, and digital inclusion ahead of WTSA-24. The meeting focused on bridging the digital divide, promoting affordable telecommunications in underserved areas, and leveraging technologies like 5G, AI, and IoT to address local challenges. Omo urged flexibility and unity in endorsing the African Common Positions (AfCPs) to enhance regional cooperation and secure a robust digital future for Africa. Read more about the meeting here. <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/atu-secretary-general-calls-for-africas-unified-…> Blog by Dr. Grace Githaiga. 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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Safaricom and Starlink: Exploring the Controversy Surrounding LEO Satellite Services in Kenya
by Victor Kapiyo 08 Sep '24

08 Sep '24

Ben Roberts has written an insightful blog on the issues around the controversy that came up online following Safaricom's letter to the Communications Authority (CA) regarding the regulation of new services enabled by Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites such as Starlink. The letter raised concerns about potential stifling of innovation and unfair competition, especially in the context of Starlink's broadband services and the emerging "Direct to Mobile" technology. According to Ben, Safaricom's letter primarily focuses on the regulatory considerations for "Direct to Mobile" services, seeking participation in international discussions to establish technical standards and ensure a level playing field for all operators. Read more: https://cioafrica.co/safaricom-vs-starlink-whats-the-fuss-all-about/

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