- KICTANet - KICTANet

Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked
by S.Murigi Muraya 07 Apr '10

07 Apr '10

About 2 years ago went to the KICTB offices then at Waiyaki Way. My purpose then was to find out what they were about. Was referred to a visibly irritated fellow who was done with me in less than 1 minute only telling me to check the KICTB website. Have waited to see what they would come up with and am not too disappointed. For one they organize, co sponsor or market industry events that yuppies can be involved in without falling asleep. Being sort of experienced in the professional tech skills development field this can authoritatively say this is one of the 'enabling situations' we have lacked locally. We need skills but companies are not willing to train unethical techies who jump ship immediately after being sharpened. On the other hand techies are unable to effectively educate themselves without corporate or tech community support eg. www.ihub.co.ke Training centers are not too doing well financially & cannot hire the best (often more experienced) techies because corporates are not training as much as they should. By working with industry giants (eg Google, Microsoft, Oracle) & their partners the KICTB is somehow helping educate techies via these industry events. If anything, the KICTB needs to exist for this purpose -> to help build capacity in the local tech industry. They are exposing budding software entreprenuers to Indian outsourcing practices to name another 'situation' they are enabling. GITS, NCS etc do not do this as far as I know. Nimechoka - typing on a mobile. SMM -----Original Message----- From: Barrack Otieno <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com> Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 16:52 To: murigi.muraya(a)gmail.com Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked Dr. Siganga, Your write up makes sense, i guess we have been mixing too many issues, in other words we handle government agencies and industry associations separately, sounds like the meeting is a welcome idea, i suggest government agencies first. Regards On Mon, Apr 5, 2010 at 3:03 PM, waudo siganga <emailsignet(a)mailcan.com> wrote: > Hi Evans, all - we have discussed the issue of a statutory body to > regulate ICT professionalism on this list in the past and the discussion > did not go far. Some said that we would be interfering with > "innovation". Some mentioned Bill Gates as a guy who has done much but > does not have any professional qualification. Yet others had other > stories (e.g. the three blind men story from Brian and his note to Walu > on 7/7/08: >> I beg to differ. ICT is too large, too deep and too wide to have a >> single, authoritative, representative body. What you refer to would >> probably be more appropriate to some of the professional disciplines >> within the ICT sector e.g. Software Developers Guild, System >> Administrators Association, CIO/CTO Society - within which there can >> be certain codes of behavior, ethics, values, best practices etc... > > On 10/9/08 on this list I re-introduced the topic of a statutory body > such as LSK,ICPAK, ... to guide the ICT profession. In my mail I even > included a "draft ICT Professionals Act". The idea received cold water > except from Kamotho. > > One distinction between "profession" and "Industry". In my mind I see > statutory bodies as more regulating "profession" rather than "industry". > Industry bodies are normally private sector initiatives formed by > interested persons to achieve common goals. I can be surprised to hear > the government being asked to help set up an "industry" association of > any type. Private sector associations engage the government, so how can > the same government be involved in their set up? The other axiomatic > thing about associations is that the ones that do not deliver invariably > die a natural death - and there are many examples of this in Kenya even > within ICT. It is not difficult to set up a membership association (just > like a Church or Club which are set up under the same "Societies Act"). > People cannot be stopped from setting up associations because the > Constitution guarantees freedom of association. This means those who > have any bright ideas that are not accommodated by existing associations > cannot have an excuse or choose to take up the role of professional > hecklers of existing associations. > > Within ICT we agreed some years to accommodate multiple associations > which then converge under KEPSA umbrella to offer a unified voice. This > I think is working very well as recently exemplified at the Prime > Minister's Round Table where ICT issues were very well articulated. > > With regard to Prof's suggestion to discuss government agencies and > private sector associations at the same meeting I think that would > create much confusion and even opportunities for red herrings to be > thrown around. It is mixing oranges and apples. The word "association" > is actually a short form. The exact terminology is "membership > association". An association is made up of members who voluntarily come > together and run their interests. The members have their own channels to > discuss their issues. It does not take much imagination to realize that > someone who is NOT a "member" is unlikely to have overflowing goodwill > towards (leave alone information about) the association. However, > associations face a lot of challenges and a specific get together of > associations to discuss best practices and ways of being sustainable and > more effective would be welcome. The Business Advocacy Fund is for > example doing a great and positive job in the direction of capacity > building and funding. Well done to them. Another useful type of meeting > is the type you refer to that was held at KICC a couple of years ago > where associations can inform a wider audience about their activities > and roles and, perhaps, recruit more members. Overall, an associations' > meeting should be a focused one and not be mixed up with one for > government agencies; and guest list should be expanded from Prof's > limiting suggestion of "the plethora of ICT industry associations that > are not effective" to include those which are effective so that others > can learn from them as well. > > Waudo > www.cskonline.org > > > On Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:38 -0500, ikua(a)lpakenya.org wrote: >> Dear listers, >> Did we not have a similar meeting not too long ago? I think it was >> about two years or so. Cant remember who had organized it but it was >> there at KICC. Same theme of taking stock of all ICT bodies. Cant >> remember if the Government agencies were represented. >> >> Not that I have a problem with yet another similar meeting, but we >> need to clearly set out what we want to achieve with that kind of >> gathering. Its common knowledge that the ICT industry is awash with >> all manner of associations/organizations and Government bodies. Isn't >> it time that we had the sort of organization that we see with other >> professions like Accountants and Lawyers etc? Isn't it time that the >> Government created a statutory industry association? This can easily >> be achieved by such legislation as the policy document presented by >> the PS the other day, or the Communications Act that was passed not >> too long ago. >> >> Inasmuch as the Government so believes in the increasing importance >> that ICT plays in the economy, then its imperative that we have an >> industry body that would take care of all others, say like a CSK that >> is recognized by an Act of parliament. >> >> Regards, >> Ikua >> >> Quoting Mwololo Tim <timwololo(a)gmail.com>: >> >> > Dear all, >> > The discussion needs to be on the institutional framework for ICTs in Kenya, >> > not just on KICTB. It needs to cover KICTB, NCS and DEG/GITS. It also needs >> > to include the plethora of ICT industry associations that are not effective. >> > I can organize such a townhall meeting in Chiromo like the first one. >> > However, for such a meeting to be useful, it needs to be preceded by some >> > guided discussion on the same. Alternatively, one or two persons can >> > prepare presenations to guide the discussions, with these presentations >> > being made available earlier for participants to acquint with them. I am >> > also prepared to be one of those persons. tim >> > >> > On Sun, Apr 4, 2010 at 9:10 PM, Barrack Otieno >> > <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com>wrote: >> > >> >> Daktari, >> >> >> >> Thank you for setting the ball rolling, not sure i saw the document as >> >> well it must have been hijacked. A town hall meeting is a welcome idea >> >> i second it, Kippra felt sufficiently philanthropic before the last >> >> town hall meeting i wonder whether they can double their offer during >> >> this easter season, bwn Magolo can we count on you. Walu can set the >> >> agenda. >> >> >> >> Regards >> >> >> >> On Sun, Apr 4, 2010 at 7:28 PM, Solomon Mburu Kamau >> >> <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com> wrote: >> >> > On 04/04/2010, bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> wrote: >> >> >> Barrack, >> >> >> Several posts have come by on the role of ICT and I think it will be >> >> wise >> >> >> if we sorted this in a town hall meeting similar to one we had on >> >> Malili. >> >> >> Honestly it feels as though some Neanderthal decided to create these >> >> >> agencies without putting some thought to it. Criticisms are good only >> >> >> when you point out where there are gaps. >> >> >> >> >> >> The other day I posted a policy proposal for comments but only one >> >> person >> >> >> did respond. What it means then is that this forum ni ya kuchongoana >> >> tu. >> >> > >> >> > Dakitari, with due respect, would you mind resending the policy >> >> > proposals as a new thread so that interested parties may respond? >> >> > If sent within this thread, I'm afraid they'll be swallowed along the >> >> way. >> >> > >> >> >> Which really is unfortunate. I have four other policy proposals that I >> >> >> really think should push through then arouse sufficient interest from >> >> the >> >> >> membership here. >> >> > >> >> > I also think you should send them so that we react to the contents! >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Ndemo. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >>> This is truly "Jicho Pevu", i think some answers to this questions are >> >> >>> very much in order as we celebrate Easter, can someone provide us with >> >> >>> a list of all agencies involved in ICTs and ICT4D so that we can do >> >> >>> some tooth comb analysis, i saw a post from Paul on what the board >> >> >>> has achieved early this year, that was very much in order we need >> >> >>> something from NCS as well plus any other agencies. >> >> >>> >> >> >>> Regards >> >> >>> >> >> >>> On Sat, Apr 3, 2010 at 12:50 PM, Vitalis Olunga <volunga(a)yahoo.com> >> >> wrote: >> >> >>>> There is also another body , National Communications Secretarait. What >> >> >>>> is >> >> >>>> the diffrence between NCS and ICT Baord and how do the two bodies >> >> relate >> >> >>>> with respect to advisory services to the governement on ICT matters? >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> Regards >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> Vitalis >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> ________________________________ >> >> >>>> From: robert yawe <robertyawe(a)yahoo.co.uk> >> >> >>>> To: volunga(a)yahoo.com >> >> >>>> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >> >> >>>> Sent: Sat, April 3, 2010 12:03:22 PM >> >> >>>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> Hi, >> >> >>>> I rest my case on this issue, the ICT Board is a monolith, Try >> >> >>>> reading this... (pdf file), as I feared it is mandated to do anything >> >> >>>> and >> >> >>>> everything under the sun that could be called ICT which includes your >> >> >>>> microwave oven and copier. >> >> >>>> Functions of Kenya ICT Board >> >> >>>> The core functions of Kenya ICT Board as documented in the Kenya >> >> Gazette >> >> >>>> Legal Notice No 26 of the May 2007: >> >> >>>> ? To advice the government on all relevant matters pertaining to >> >> >>>> development, coordination (remember the PM post) and promotion of ICT >> >> >>>> industries in the country. >> >> >>>> ? Promote both locally and internationally the opportunities for >> >> >>>> investments in ICT technology >> >> >>>> ? Facilitate and manage ICT industrial incubation parks and >> >> technology >> >> >>>> parks together with associated facilities on sites, estates and land. >> >> >>>> ? Partner with agents within and without the country to carry out >> >> such >> >> >>>> functions as it may consider necessary. >> >> >>>> ? To transform and empower society through deployment and use of >> >> ICTs. >> >> >>>> ? Carry out any other activity to promote and develop ICT products >> >> and >> >> >>>> services. >> >> >>>> Have a restful Easter as we await the limited range 4G, yes you >> >> guessed >> >> >>>> it I >> >> >>>> still have a 3G issue and I am in Nairobi. >> >> >>>> Regards >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> _______________________________________________ >> >> >>>> kictanet mailing list >> >> >>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> >> >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com >> >> >>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> >> >>>> >> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… >> >> >>>> >> >> >>>> >> >> >>> >> >> >>> >> >> >>> >> >> >>> -- >> >> >>> Barrack O. Otieno >> >> >>> Geneva >> >> >>> Skype: barrack.otieno >> >> >>> >> >> >>> _______________________________________________ >> >> >>> kictanet mailing list >> >> >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> >> >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> >>> >> >> >>> This message was sent to: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke >> >> >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> >> >>> >> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/bitange%40jambo.co.ke >> >> >>> >> >> >>> ---------------------------------------------- >> >> >>> This message has been scanned for viruses and >> >> >>> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >> >> >>> believed to be clean. >> >> >>> --------------------------------------------- >> >> >>> "easy access to the world" >> >> >>> >> >> >>> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> ---------------------------------------------- >> >> >> This message has been scanned for viruses and >> >> >> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >> >> >> believed to be clean. >> >> >> --------------------------------------------- >> >> >> "easy access to the world" >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> >> >> kictanet mailing list >> >> >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> >> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> >> >> >> >> This message was sent to: solo.mburu(a)gmail.com >> >> >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> >> >> >> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/solo.mburu%40gmail.com >> >> >> >> >> > >> >> > >> >> > -- >> >> > Solomon Mb?r? Kamau >> >> > P.O. Box 19343 - 00202 Nairobi >> >> > Cell: (+254-0) 735 431041 >> >> > >> >> > Man is a gregarious animal and enjoys agreement as cows will graze all >> >> > the same way to the side of a hill! >> >> > >> >> > AND >> >> > >> >> > It is better to die in dignity than in the ignomity of ambiguous >> >> generosity! >> >> > >> >> > http://dawn-in-kenya.blogspot.com >> >> > http://smiley2.wordpress.com >> >> > http://mburu.sikika.co.ke >> >> > >> >> > _______________________________________________ >> >> > kictanet mailing list >> >> > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> > >> >> > This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com >> >> > Unsubscribe or change your options at >> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… >> >> > >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> -- >> >> Barrack O. Otieno >> >> Palais de Nations Genéve >> >> Skype: barrack.otieno >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> >> kictanet mailing list >> >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> >> >> This message was sent to: timwololo(a)gmail.com >> >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/timwololo%40gmail.com >> >> >> > >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> kictanet mailing list >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> This message was sent to: emailsignet(a)mailcan.com >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emailsignet%40mailcan.… >> > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… > -- Barrack O. Otieno Palais de Nations Genéve Skype: barrack.otieno _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet This message was sent to: murigi.muraya(a)gmail.com Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/murigi.muraya%40gmail.…

4 4

Ongeri Hurray on ICT Bus
by robert yawe 07 Apr '10

07 Apr '10

Hi, It seems that some sanity is coming into the education realm with the Hon. Minister Dr. Ongeri canceling the proposed ICT Bus project, I believe once bitten twice shy. The project was to cost Kes. 1.2 B with each bus costing Kes. 7 Million which equates to 171 buses that is roughly 24 buses per province this was surely another scan in the making. I remember the MP of Kisumu Hon. Shabbir raising the issue of the buses and getting dismissed as a self seeking technology Neanderthal, lets hope this is the beginning of sanity in the ICT arena, but if I was you I wouldn't hold my breath. I suspect that the concept of mobile computer labs was a thinking from the mobile library project but someone forgot that with a library the books are left behind. With Kes 7 million we could do much more than just a single bus with 20 computer that requires a driver, insurance, service, generators, and many other thinks. Here is my suggestion on how the 7 million could be better utilised to meet the objectives. - 20% to be used for physical facilities (stone & mortar) - Kes. 1.4 M - This can build 150 sq m of classroom space inclusive of electrical wiring & burger proofed windows. An average computer lab is 15 sq m which means we can build 10 labs and each can accommodate 20 screens/pcs. We could build even more labs if the Ministry if Housing provided the interlocking soil block making machines - 30% to be used for provision of power to the lab - Kes. 2.1 million we which we need to provide sufficient power. The computers will need to be low power consumers therefore we use TFT screens and cpu sharing devices that allow 1 computer to be used simultaneously by 4 or more students. With this our power requirement for each lab would be below 1,000 VA which can easily be supplied by a few solar panels and a battery bank. - 20% for the actual hardware - Kes. 1.4 M - DC powered computers, printers and GSM modem with a good proxy server to provide local caching. This will also include structured cabling which will be done by the graduats of the kazi kwa Vijani initiative where they will have been offered technical training. - 20% teacher training - Kes. 1.4 M, even if we have them certified in ICDL we shall be able to train 66 teachers which would provide enough computer teachers. - 10% well I leave you to decide what to do with that, note that there are no recurrent costs such as drivers, diesel, electricity costs (God does not charge for solar, yet). The 10 labs can be used by the schools during the day and could be made available to the community in the evenings and as digital villages over the weekends where content can be generated, yes local content (ask me for details). Now that I have spend the equivalent of 1 bus to create 10 centers why won't we actually do this, because I did not factor in the feasibility study costs, 30%, seminars and workshops 50%, sitting allowances 20% and well nothing else to include as the preliminary costs have already consumed the 7 million. Ongeri hurray but lets hope the money will not go to drinking water and writing materials for a bonding session. Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

8 22

Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? - Capacity Building (Victor Maloi)
by Matunda Nyanchama 07 Apr '10

07 Apr '10

Victor Malo, Thanks for the update on Rwanda. Let's put things in context: the discussion was around what model would be most effective in service delivery. Rwanda and South Africa, which I am familiar with adopted one model; we in Kenya have taken another route. We may yet succeeded, but there are clear pros and cons regarding the road we have taken versus the one not taken. And that is NOT a complaint but a critique. We should not be averse to continually examine this road taken and how best to address challenges we face in there. Examples: duplication, delivery standards, information protection, risk management, content & application development, etc. all aimed at effective and efficient service delivery. As well, even with the best/model in place, there are no guarantees of success without requisite factors such as effective management, efficient resource allocation, discipline, commitment, etc. I realize that this debate took place a while back; I wasn't on the list as many others that joined later. However, the issues raised are pertinent and need to be considered for what they are: concerns and feedback that could help strengthen current strategy. And indeed, they contribute towards common understanding of what is happening among stakeholders. Lilian (I believe) brought up a very important point: ICT Governance & compliance. It is NOT clear who or what body in the Kenyan scene has this responsibility, especially with respect to Government ICT services and service delivery. Baadaye. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Matunda Nyanchama, mnyanchama(a)aganoconsulting.com Agano Consulting Inc.; www.aganoconsulting.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “If you have an apple and I have an apple and we exchange these apples then you and I will still each have one apple. But if you have an idea and I have an idea and we exchange these ideas, then each of us will have two ideas.”- George Bernard Shaw ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This e-mail, including attachments, may be privileged and may contain confidential or proprietary information intended only for the addressee(s). Any other distribution, copying, use, or disclosure is unauthorized and strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately by reply e-mail and permanently delete the message, including any attachments, without making a copy. Thank you.

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? - Capacity Building
by Vitalis Olunga 07 Apr '10

07 Apr '10

For effective and long-term strategic developments, the system needs to be looked at as a whole, and specifically from "helicopter, or bird's eye view perspective. The right hand needs to know what the left is doing. Duplication of roles and many centres of powers can only deter development. Starting from the global perspective, it was a big debate to arrive at the jus the name "Information, Commuinications and Techonologies." It took the world nations a number of forums and numerous dicussions and dialogue sessions, before a concensus was reached to coin the name, now commonly abbreviated ICT. The main reason was the the complexity arising due rapidly changing technologcal innovations, the changing needs of the people, the needs for governments to develop policicies, etc., Some polcies were were based on comand-and-control approach, in the industries or sub-sectors of economy, in what is now commonly known as the ICT sector. At the beginning the indutry boundaries were distinct, mainly revolving around telecommunications and broadcasting. The life was easy because the enviroment was more stable and the future was easily predicable. With the techlological innovations in computing and communications, and the convergence of variuous technologies, industry boundaries have become more maleable, and increase in flux in industry stractures. This this is a challenge as well as an oppotunity that we are facing and need to be addressed, at all times. There is need for an umbrella body "from a bird's eye view perspective " for the strategy formulation and coordination of strategy implementation in order to achieve the long-term national objectives. Otherwise we will end-up with fragmented development plans, with very little impact on the sytem as whole at the national level. These can only be useful for quick fix solutions. Contributions, including mentions about professional bodies/assocaiations have been raised in this discussions, e.g. ICPAK, KMA, etc. Also there are variuos governmental authorities in this country, apart from the ICT Board, e.g. Roads Board, Coffee Board, etc. some of which are not professionally based, wheras quite a good number are. Though ICT sector is wide and diverse, and it may be a challenge to bring all the stakeholders under one umbrella body, it is worth underating the challenge and get a solution. There are other organizations which need to be included, and which could be having resources to guide the ICT to achieve sustainabale development. For example, the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), the Enginners Regitration Board (ERB), the locatal chapter of Intutution of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (in any), etc. The organizers of the proposed forum could extend invitation to such professional bodies as well. Reagrds Vitalis ________________________________ From: Harry Delano <harry(a)comtelsys.co.ke> To: volunga(a)yahoo.com Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Sent: Tue, April 6, 2010 10:14:26 PM Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? - Capacity Building Hey Esther, Thanks alot. However, I have a feeling that such a body should be representative of those in industry (elective representation), and the Govt agencies side.. ( as effectively representative as possible). Solely charged with the mandate to drive ICT forward in this country. I think there is a general feeling that vested interests and turf wars might take an upper hand (unless reigned in) at the detriment of progress in this vital sector and to avoid numerous duplication of effort in the process. Regards,Harry ________________________________ From: Esther Muchiri [mailto:emuchiri@andestbites.com] Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 9:55 PM To: harry(a)comtelsys.co.ke Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' Subject: RE: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? - Capacity Building Good suggestions Harry, but while I am not a pessimist, I have a feeling that with time, whatever body will be formed will still face the same attacks/questions from the industry on the mandate etc Perhaps the upcoming public forum will begin to shed some light in the direction ICT development in Kenya should follow? From:kictanet-bounces+emuchiri=andestbites.com@lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+emuchiri=andestbites.com@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of Harry Delano Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 6:21 PM To: emuchiri(a)andestbites.com Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? - Capacity Building Lilian, This is so comprehensive.. Hope, notes are being taken from these resourceful discussions coming in. Mine, is just a proposal. Clearly, the different agencies existing, happen to work within some form of mandate in their own areas of jurisdiction or so, whether the mandates are competing mandates or a duplication, it may be quite difficult to just "merge" them.. Clearly, Listers - one thing that is now clear, is that ICT is a huge phenomenon, that cuts' out across the entire spectrum of Govt and ministries - beyond INFOCOM. This means, stakeholders from other Govt. sectors need to be brought into the fold to harmonize strategy.. I suppose therefore, this may call for an oversight body - to which, each of the Govt agencies can have a representation. This oversight, could encompass reps, from all sectors, private , and govt. All interests should be declared as a pre-requisite to serving on this panel for purposes of accountability and transparency.. If in order, I could float some names for such a body, such as:- * National ICT Task Force - (NICTAF) * National ICT Agency of Kenya - (NICTAK) * National ICT Oversight Board -(NICTOB) Other names are welcome.. Harry ________________________________ From:kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of Lilian Karanja Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 11:43 AM To: harry(a)comtelsys.co.ke Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? - Capacity Building Yes, Robert.......I see. Certainly, what GoK needs is ICT Governance. “Without governance you do not produce good decisions consistently. ‘Governance’ in the context of the management of ICT crafts a clear framework in which decisions are made, who makes the decisions about business and technology developments, who has input into the decision-making process and how the decisions are formed”. In my opinion, the ICT Board (under Min. Of Info Comm), the Directorate of e-Government (under OP), the GITS Department (under Min. Of Finance), and both the CCK and NCS (both under Min. Of Info Comm) seem to have related ICT goals and objectives. They (unfortunately) don’t seem to oftenly collaborate in their decision-making. I personally like the idea of a KITA like SITA/RITA. Sometime ago, the Directorate of e-Government seemed to come-up into a KITA (in the way we think of SITA/RITA), but did not ‘mature’ into the institution envisioned. GoK ICT Governance Decisions would ideally focus on: · Determining the strategic approach to e-government and ICT within GoK · How the e-government initiatives should be used in GoK, to improve services, reduce costs, develop the community, etc · How fundamental e-government and ICT is to GoK and the country at large · The way e-government and ICT is to be managed (e.g. by what mechanism and how resources are to be managed) · The way investments are to be made and policies on realising and sharing benefits · How the required skills are to be procured (through strategic partnerships, in-house, through consortium, etc) · The principles that underlie the ICT architecture · Setting priorities and determining e-government and ICT investment programmes · Managing the foundations and regulations regarding the core elements of the infrastructure: o Personnel – who will be responsible for their professional development and where certain skills should reside o Methods and techniques – what project/programme management, development and operations management standards should be used o Charging mechanisms and services standards (performance management) o Information – standards to enable the effective sharing of information o Core applications – intranet, finance systems, payroll, registries and personnel standards, etc o Technical – network, consolidated service desk, data standards o Security o Legal This has conspicuously missed within GoK, in the past years. We look to GoK greatly to spur ‘mwananchi’ by keenly committing to ‘add value’ to broadband so that their attitude, confidence and appreciation towards the use ICTs and the Internet increases (especially in the rural areas, as they access Government e-Services), thus creating an Internet Community and an IT culture. Am not sure we necessarily need support from outside to do this, even donor funds (we don’t need). We can do it on our own, as we (Kenya) are, now, known to be an emerging knowledge economy. GoK can lead the way to create a Kenyan way ‘working with’and using ICT. We have so many Youth (any way), who are jobless! Lets purposefully develop capacity of these young and use them sufficiently. I rest my case, and I apologise for any misunderstandings. LILIAN --- On Tue, 4/6/10, robert yawe <robertyawe(a)yahoo.co.uk> wrote: >From: robert yawe <robertyawe(a)yahoo.co.uk> >Subject: Who is ICT Board? - Capacity Building >To: "Lilian Karanja" <l_wkaranja(a)yahoo.com> >Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >Date: Tuesday, April 6, 2010, 12:32 AM >Hi Lilian, > >Just wanted to clarify an issue, government has some of the best trained ICT fellows and I know because I have regularly interacted with them for over 10 years. Do not be deceived by the fact that they are no fancy websites or iphone applications the men and women who keep the government systems running are basically miracle workers. > >How they do it is beyond my comprehension and the last thin they need is a capacity building what they need like all with the other areas of government is a co-ordinator or a Deputy Prime Minister IS. Hon Raila has definitely moved government efficiency a notch higher and without a "dream team" or expatriate consultants all he did was dust off the diamonds within. > >Government has a beautiful retention strategy which is we pay you for 2 hours a day and we expect you to only deliver the paid for work, if you are unable to find something profitable to do with the balance 6 hours then that is your problem. > >What we need is a deputy prime minister information systems or ICT or BPO whatever the name of which KICTB has proven not to be to "desilo" (term coined by Dr. Ndemo during the PM Round table meeting) the government activities. > >Can you government ICT gurus stick your heads out and defend your selves, I know many of you are on this listing, so be warned that next time I need to put the record strait on your behalf I will actually name names. > >Robert Yawe >KAY System Technologies Ltd >Phoenix House, 6th Floor >P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 >Kenya >Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696 > > > ________________________________ >From:Lilian Karanja <l_wkaranja(a)yahoo.com> >To: robertyawe(a)yahoo.co.uk >Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >Sent: Mon, 5 April, 2010 16:58:41 >Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked >Dear PS: > >It is a little discouraging to hear you say that the issues discussed in this topic are 'kuchongoana tu'. We look up to you, and others in Government and also in the private sector who are so passionate about the use of ICTs and the Internet to create opportunities for all, in Kenya, and see that ICT remains a reliable vehicle for economic growth and development. So, please don't stop listening to us, patiently and we beseech you to continue in your wisdom in dealing with these matters. > >This topic, 'Who is ICT Board?' as well as that of 'eGovernment is it a myth or reality?' have raised important questions that should be addressed with 'a big heart' and an open mind. As you have noted, a town hall meeting is good and always welcome. However, moving forward, it needs to be clear how ICT Board interacts with Government and how it promotes the existence of an Institutional Framework for ICT management in Government. Clearly, the ICT Board manages of a huge chunk of donor funds for ICT growth in Kenya, eGovernment and the likes (through the KTCIP), but still the Government lags behind in their ICT technical know-how and skills. > >While one of their mandate (the ICT Board) is Capacity Building (Providing GoK and other stakeholders with skills, capacity and funding for anchor implementation of ICT projects for development) over time we have only seen laxity in the management of ICT by Government i.e. poor websites, unsatisfactory performance of legacy systems, inconsistent DNS & IP address management, meagre IT Security (web, network, etc), little or no R&D and M&E of ICT & eGovt, etc. But may be it is not deliberate laxity, it is that the Government Officers who manage IT issues in Government are not continuously trained in all pertinent areas to raise experts and skillful personnel. > >I hope this is an area ICT Board can address, when they say that part of their mandate is Capacity Building, otherwise we have Government Officers who cannot do much to use broadband properly and strategically as well as make eGovernment a reality. The cabilities of these Officers should be close to, if not better than those in the private sector. And when GoK finally has real experts and engineers in ICT, a retention strategy MUST be adopted to keep them and recompense them accordingly. This is the future of Government IT, 'people who are knowledgeable and focused on a bright future'. > >LILIAN > > > >--- On Sun, 4/4/10, bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> wrote: > >>From: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> >>Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked >>To: "Lilian" <l_wkaranja(a)yahoo.com> >>Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >>Date: Sunday, April 4, 2010, 9:42 AM >>Barrack, >>Several posts have come by on the role of ICT and I think it will be wise >>if we sorted this in a town hall meeting similar to one we had on Malili. >>Honestly it feels as though some Neanderthal decided to create these >>agencies without putting some thought to it. Criticisms are good only >>when you point out where there are gaps. >> >>The other day I posted a policy proposal for comments but only one person >>did respond. What it means then is that this forum ni ya kuchongoana tu. >>Which really is unfortunate. I have four other policy proposals that I >>really think should push through then arouse sufficient interest from the >>membership here. >> >> >>Ndemo. >> >> >>> This is truly "Jicho Pevu", i think some answers to this questions are >>> very much in order as we celebrate Easter, can someone provide us with >>> a list of all agencies involved in ICTs and ICT4D so that we can do >>> some tooth comb analysis, i saw a post from Paul on what the board >>> has achieved early this year, that was very much in order we need >>> something from NCS as well plus any other agencies. >>> >>> Regards >>> >>> On Sat, Apr 3, 2010 at 12:50 PM, Vitalis Olunga <volunga(a)yahoo.com> wrote: >>>> There is also another body , National Communications Secretarait. What >>>> is >>>> the diffrence between NCS and ICT Baord and how do the two bodies relate >>>> with respect to advisory services to the governement on ICT matters? >>>> >>>> Regards >>>> >>>> >>>> Vitalis >>>> >>>> ________________________________ >>>> From: robert yawe <robertyawe(a)yahoo.co.uk> >>>> To: volunga(a)yahoo.com >>>> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >>>> Sent: Sat, April 3, 2010 12:03:22 PM >>>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked >>>> >>>> Hi, >>>> I rest my case on this issue, the ICT Board is a monolith, Try >>>> reading this... (pdf file), as I feared it is mandated to do anything >>>> and >>>> everything under the sun that could be called ICT which includes your >>>> microwave oven and copier. >>>> Functions of Kenya ICT Board >>>> The core functions of Kenya ICT Board as documented in the Kenya Gazette >>>> Legal Notice No 26 of the May 2007: >>>> • To advice the government on all relevant matters pertaining to >>>> development, coordination (remember the PM post) and promotion of ICT >>>> industries in the country. >>>> • Promote both locally and internationally the opportunities for >>>> investments in ICT technology >>>> • Facilitate and manage ICT industrial incubation parks and technology >>>> parks together with associated facilities on sites, estates and land. >>>> • Partner with agents within and without the country to carry out such >>>> functions as it may consider necessary. >>>> • To transform and empower society through deployment and use of ICTs. >>>> • Carry out any other activity to promote and develop ICT products and >>>> services. >>>> Have a restful Easter as we await the limited range 4G, yes you guessed >>>> it I >>>> still have a 3G issue and I am in Nairobi. >>>> Regards >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> kictanet mailing list >>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >>>> >>>> This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com >>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… >>>> >>>> >>> >>> >>> >>> -- >>> Barrack O. Otieno >>> Geneva >>> Skype: barrack.otieno >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> kictanet mailing list >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >>> >>> This message was sent to: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/bitange%40jambo.co.ke >>> >>> ---------------------------------------------- >>> This message has been scanned for viruses and >>> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >>> believed to be clean. >>> --------------------------------------------- >>> "easy access to the world" >>> >>> >> >> >> >>---------------------------------------------- >>This message has been scanned for viruses and >>dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >>believed to be clean. >>--------------------------------------------- >>"easy access to the world" >> >> >>_______________________________________________ >>kictanet mailing list >>kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >>This message was sent to: l_wkaranja(a)yahoo.com >>Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/l_wkaranja%40yahoo.com > >

3 2

Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked.....TOWN HALL meeting
by Mwololo Tim 07 Apr '10

07 Apr '10

Thanks Alice. Let us start with the ICT bodies one. I like your agenda, reformulated: 1. What ICT bodies do we have? What are their mandates? 2. What do we need? 3. What is lacking? 4. Way forward. Dates? tm On Mon, Apr 5, 2010 at 8:02 PM, <alice(a)apc.org> wrote: > Hi Tim, > > Thanks for always taking this up and offering to coordinate town hall > meetings. > Yes lets go for it....ICT institution, what do we have? What is lacking, > what do we need. > > KICTAnet will support the usual teas/coffees for about 25-50 or so people > > And then we must organize another to discuss the cyber security policy > that the P.S posted to the list. > So, please do go ahead, and organize for both soon at Arziki > > > > thanks and very best > > alice > > > Mwololo Tim wrote: > > Dear all, > > The discussion needs to be on the institutional framework for ICTs in > Kenya, not just on KICTB. It needs to cover KICTB, NCS and DEG/GITS. It > also needs to include the plethora of ICT industry associations that are > not effective. I can organize such a townhall meeting in Chiromo like > the first one. However, for such a meeting to be useful, it needs to be > preceded by some guided discussion on the same. Alternatively, one or > two persons can prepare presenations to guide the discussions, with > these presentations being made available earlier for participants to > acquint with them. I am also prepared to be one of those persons. tim > > > > On Sun, Apr 4, 2010 at 9:10 PM, Barrack Otieno > <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > > > Daktari, > > > > Thank you for setting the ball rolling, not sure i saw the document > as > > well it must have been hijacked. A town hall meeting is a welcome > idea > > i second it, Kippra felt sufficiently philanthropic before the last > > town hall meeting i wonder whether they can double their offer during > > this easter season, bwn Magolo can we count on you. Walu can set the > > agenda. > > > > Regards > > > > On Sun, Apr 4, 2010 at 7:28 PM, Solomon Mburu Kamau > > <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > > On 04/04/2010, bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> wrote: > > >> Barrack, > > >> Several posts have come by on the role of ICT and I think it will > be wise > > >> if we sorted this in a town hall meeting similar to one we had on > Malili. > > >> Honestly it feels as though some Neanderthal decided to create > these > > >> agencies without putting some thought to it. Criticisms are good > only > > >> when you point out where there are gaps. > > >> > > >> The other day I posted a policy proposal for comments but only > one person > > >> did respond. What it means then is that this forum ni ya > kuchongoana tu. > > > > > > Dakitari, with due respect, would you mind resending the policy > > > proposals as a new thread so that interested parties may respond? > > > If sent within this thread, I'm afraid they'll be swallowed along > the way. > > > > > >> Which really is unfortunate. I have four other policy proposals > that I > > >> really think should push through then arouse sufficient interest > from the > > >> membership here. > > > > > > I also think you should send them so that we react to the contents! > > >> > > >> > > >> Ndemo. > > >> > > >> > > >>> This is truly "Jicho Pevu", i think some answers to this > questions are > > >>> very much in order as we celebrate Easter, can someone provide > us with > > >>> a list of all agencies involved in ICTs and ICT4D so that we can > do > > >>> some tooth comb analysis, i saw a post from Paul on what the > board > > >>> has achieved early this year, that was very much in order we need > > >>> something from NCS as well plus any other agencies. > > >>> > > >>> Regards > > >>> > > >>> On Sat, Apr 3, 2010 at 12:50 PM, Vitalis Olunga > <volunga(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > > >>>> There is also another body , National Communications > Secretarait. What > > >>>> is > > >>>> the diffrence between NCS and ICT Baord and how do the two > bodies relate > > >>>> with respect to advisory services to the governement on ICT > matters? > > >>>> > > >>>> Regards > > >>>> > > >>>> > > >>>> Vitalis > > >>>> > > >>>> ________________________________ > > >>>> From: robert yawe <robertyawe(a)yahoo.co.uk> > > >>>> To: volunga(a)yahoo.com > > >>>> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > >>>> Sent: Sat, April 3, 2010 12:03:22 PM > > >>>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked > > >>>> > > >>>> Hi, > > >>>> I rest my case on this issue, the ICT Board is a monolith, Try > > >>>> reading this... (pdf file), as I feared it is mandated to do > anything > > >>>> and > > >>>> everything under the sun that could be called ICT which > includes your > > >>>> microwave oven and copier. > > >>>> Functions of Kenya ICT Board > > >>>> The core functions of Kenya ICT Board as documented in the > Kenya Gazette > > >>>> Legal Notice No 26 of the May 2007: > > >>>> • To advice the government on all relevant matters pertaining > to > > >>>> development, coordination (remember the PM post) and promotion > of ICT > > >>>> industries in the country. > > >>>> • Promote both locally and internationally the opportunities > for > > >>>> investments in ICT technology > > >>>> • Facilitate and manage ICT industrial incubation parks and > technology > > >>>> parks together with associated facilities on sites, estates and > land. > > >>>> • Partner with agents within and without the country to carry > out such > > >>>> functions as it may consider necessary. > > >>>> • To transform and empower society through deployment and use > of ICTs. > > >>>> • Carry out any other activity to promote and develop ICT > products and > > >>>> services. > > >>>> Have a restful Easter as we await the limited range 4G, yes you > guessed > > >>>> it I > > >>>> still have a 3G issue and I am in Nairobi. > > >>>> Regards > > >>>> > > >>>> > > >>>> > > >>>> > > >>>> _______________________________________________ > > >>>> kictanet mailing list > > >>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > >>>> > > >>>> This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com > > >>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > > >>>> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… > > >>>> > > >>>> > > >>> > > >>> > > >>> > > >>> -- > > >>> Barrack O. Otieno > > >>> Geneva > > >>> Skype: barrack.otieno > > >>> > > >>> _______________________________________________ > > >>> kictanet mailing list > > >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > >>> > > >>> This message was sent to: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke > > >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > > >>> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/bitange%40jambo.co.ke > > >>> > > >>> ---------------------------------------------- > > >>> This message has been scanned for viruses and > > >>> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is > > >>> believed to be clean. > > >>> --------------------------------------------- > > >>> "easy access to the world" > > >>> > > >>> > > >> > > >> > > >> > > >> ---------------------------------------------- > > >> This message has been scanned for viruses and > > >> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is > > >> believed to be clean. > > >> --------------------------------------------- > > >> "easy access to the world" > > >> > > >> > > >> _______________________________________________ > > >> kictanet mailing list > > >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > >> > > >> This message was sent to: solo.mburu(a)gmail.com > > >> Unsubscribe or change your options at > > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/solo.mburu%40gmail.com > > >> > > > > > > > > > -- > > > Solomon Mbũrũ Kamau > > > P.O. Box 19343 - 00202 Nairobi > > > Cell: (+254-0) 735 431041 > > > > > > Man is a gregarious animal and enjoys agreement as cows will graze > all > > > the same way to the side of a hill! > > > > > > AND > > > > > > It is better to die in dignity than in the ignomity of ambiguous > generosity! > > > > > > http://dawn-in-kenya.blogspot.com > > > http://smiley2.wordpress.com > > > http://mburu.sikika.co.ke > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > > kictanet mailing list > > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > > > This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com > > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… > > > > > > > > > > > -- > > Barrack O. Otieno > > Palais de Nations Genéve > > Skype: barrack.otieno > > > > _______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > This message was sent to: timwololo(a)gmail.com > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/timwololo%40gmail.com > > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > This message was sent to: alice(a)apc.org > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/alice%40apc.org > > >

4 3

Virtual town hall meeting
by robert yawe 07 Apr '10

07 Apr '10

Hi, I note that many issues seem to be getting referred to town halls for better discussion, why not set-up a virtual town hall to address this issues therefore we do not need to look for sponsorship. Here is a link to a system that we can trial to see how it works, for those interested please follow the link below to setup up your PC we can then pick a sample discussion issue. Go through the tutorials and make yourself familiar with the system. http://www.elluminate.com/trial/p.go?pk=vEDZEj1SEtbbNz2c I propose that we have a test session on Tuesday next week from 9:30 am to 10:30 am, send me proposals for a topic of discussion. Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked
by Kamotho Njenga 07 Apr '10

07 Apr '10

Esteemed Listers, Prof. Waema's proposal to convene a gathering premised on the subject of institutional frameworks is timely if not overdue. As dependence on ICT increases in Kenya it will be critical to ensure that the rate of technological dependence does not outstrip the rate at which institutional frameworks are developing. Its fundamental to plan for policy as technology evolves. Going by the contributions from various listers, one theme rings out sharply and with clarity. There is a patent call for some purposeful effort to create an all-inclusive umbrella body that would enable the ICT fraternity engage all relevant parties with ease and confidence. As noted by Evans and Waudo this subject has come up before in various designs. Unfortunately the debate that always follows assassinates the key motion before staggering to other issues. It’s even arguable that on certain occasions some contributions are basically guided missiles hidden in words. The reference to such by Dr Ndemo as “mchongoano” is extremely polite. Beyond question ICT will dictate the future patterns of most economic and social sectors. This requires a lot in terms of preparedness on the part of ICT professionals and stakeholders. To achieve the basic thresholds of progress we must work towards a more organized professional status. As things stand our ICT institutional set up is more chaotic than the ever maligned matatu industry fraternity who seem to have a better ideological sense of unity. If you ask an average Kenyan what their profession is they will easily tell you: I am a lawyer, I am an accountant, a teacher, a doctor etc. Ask the same question to an ICT person and you will be amazed at the surprising lack of understanding. There can be no pride in being part of a haphazard profession. Incidentally the challenge towards a treasured and honorable profession rests squarely on our shoulders as the affected people. Some time back, working with some likeminded Kenyans we explored the need of a sunshade professional and industry platform which saw the formation of the ICT Association of Kenya (ICTAK) - www.ictak.or.ke. The resolve towards an ICT setting that boosts the profile and gives pride to all professionals remains our key driving force. To achieve the highest standards it’s imperative that we pull together. There are many ongoing efforts within the ICT sector but they are too fragmentary to realize any substantial gains. Given the all encompassing name and perspective of ICTAK we would be glad to make it available for consideration as a professional/industry outfit that would be in the parallels of ICPAK, LSK, KMA as Emmanuel suggests. Since politics is an omnipresent phenomenon whenever matters like “uniting” come to the fore, the questions of transparency, governance and imperial tenures of officials warrant discussion. In our case we are fully at ease to let go any dockets we may be holding be it that of President or Prime minister as long as the vision for an elegant ICT profession is upheld. Kamotho Njenga On 4/5/10, Emmanuel Khisa <Emmanuel.khisa(a)kadet.co.ke> wrote: > > Daktari, > > I think you are spot on on the issues raised. Until we have a body unifying > the ICT Professionals we will never have a voice to effectively engage > other > stakeholders, say what happens when say Lawyers(LSK) demand some form of > engagement with the regards to ICT law, who will be mandated to represent > interest of ICT professionals, or say Health professionals body(KMA or > KM&DPB) seeking our input(by our I mean ICT professionals) regarding some > aspects of Health Information system, who will engage with them and how > will > these people claim to represent the industry? We may have previously > engaged > as ICT stakeholders but is this a sustainable model...I believe we cannot > continue to operate in this kind of chaotic situation. Kudos to KictaNet > though some useful intra-industry discussion that are very informative go > on > here, but more could be done. Question is how and where do we start and how > do we manage it so professionally that we avoid the pitfalls of unnecessary > politicking and be able to engage as ICPAK does for finance professionals > of > all shades (Auditors, Financial Analyst, Financial Accountants, Management > Accountants) > > My one cent. > > EK > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+emmanuel.khisa=kadet.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:kictanet-bounces+emmanuel.khisa<kictanet-bounces%2Bemmanuel.khisa> > =kadet.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke] On > Behalf Of waudo siganga > Sent: Monday, April 05, 2010 4:04 PM > To: emmanuel.khisa(a)kadet.co.ke > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked > > Hi Evans, all - we have discussed the issue of a statutory body to > regulate ICT professionalism on this list in the past and the discussion > did not go far. Some said that we would be interfering with > "innovation". Some mentioned Bill Gates as a guy who has done much but > does not have any professional qualification. Yet others had other > stories (e.g. the three blind men story from Brian and his note to Walu > on 7/7/08: > > I beg to differ. ICT is too large, too deep and too wide to have a > > single, authoritative, representative body. What you refer to would > > probably be more appropriate to some of the professional disciplines > > within the ICT sector e.g. Software Developers Guild, System > > Administrators Association, CIO/CTO Society - within which there can > > be certain codes of behavior, ethics, values, best practices etc... > > On 10/9/08 on this list I re-introduced the topic of a statutory body > such as LSK,ICPAK, ... to guide the ICT profession. In my mail I even > included a "draft ICT Professionals Act". The idea received cold water > except from Kamotho. > > One distinction between "profession" and "Industry". In my mind I see > statutory bodies as more regulating "profession" rather than "industry". > Industry bodies are normally private sector initiatives formed by > interested persons to achieve common goals. I can be surprised to hear > the government being asked to help set up an "industry" association of > any type. Private sector associations engage the government, so how can > the same government be involved in their set up? The other axiomatic > thing about associations is that the ones that do not deliver invariably > die a natural death - and there are many examples of this in Kenya even > within ICT. It is not difficult to set up a membership association (just > like a Church or Club which are set up under the same "Societies Act"). > People cannot be stopped from setting up associations because the > Constitution guarantees freedom of association. This means those who > have any bright ideas that are not accommodated by existing associations > cannot have an excuse or choose to take up the role of professional > hecklers of existing associations. > > Within ICT we agreed some years to accommodate multiple associations > which then converge under KEPSA umbrella to offer a unified voice. This > I think is working very well as recently exemplified at the Prime > Minister's Round Table where ICT issues were very well articulated. > > With regard to Prof's suggestion to discuss government agencies and > private sector associations at the same meeting I think that would > create much confusion and even opportunities for red herrings to be > thrown around. It is mixing oranges and apples. The word "association" > is actually a short form. The exact terminology is "membership > association". An association is made up of members who voluntarily come > together and run their interests. The members have their own channels to > discuss their issues. It does not take much imagination to realize that > someone who is NOT a "member" is unlikely to have overflowing goodwill > towards (leave alone information about) the association. However, > associations face a lot of challenges and a specific get together of > associations to discuss best practices and ways of being sustainable and > more effective would be welcome. The Business Advocacy Fund is for > example doing a great and positive job in the direction of capacity > building and funding. Well done to them. Another useful type of meeting > is the type you refer to that was held at KICC a couple of years ago > where associations can inform a wider audience about their activities > and roles and, perhaps, recruit more members. Overall, an associations' > meeting should be a focused one and not be mixed up with one for > government agencies; and guest list should be expanded from Prof's > limiting suggestion of "the plethora of ICT industry associations that > are not effective" to include those which are effective so that others > can learn from them as well. > > Waudo > www.cskonline.org > > > On Mon, 05 Apr 2010 02:38 -0500, ikua(a)lpakenya.org wrote: > > Dear listers, > > Did we not have a similar meeting not too long ago? I think it was > > about two years or so. Cant remember who had organized it but it was > > there at KICC. Same theme of taking stock of all ICT bodies. Cant > > remember if the Government agencies were represented. > > > > Not that I have a problem with yet another similar meeting, but we > > need to clearly set out what we want to achieve with that kind of > > gathering. Its common knowledge that the ICT industry is awash with > > all manner of associations/organizations and Government bodies. Isn't > > it time that we had the sort of organization that we see with other > > professions like Accountants and Lawyers etc? Isn't it time that the > > Government created a statutory industry association? This can easily > > be achieved by such legislation as the policy document presented by > > the PS the other day, or the Communications Act that was passed not > > too long ago. > > > > Inasmuch as the Government so believes in the increasing importance > > that ICT plays in the economy, then its imperative that we have an > > industry body that would take care of all others, say like a CSK that > > is recognized by an Act of parliament. > > > > Regards, > > Ikua > > > > Quoting Mwololo Tim <timwololo(a)gmail.com>: > > > > > Dear all, > > > The discussion needs to be on the institutional framework for ICTs in > Kenya, > > > not just on KICTB. It needs to cover KICTB, NCS and DEG/GITS. It also > needs > > > to include the plethora of ICT industry associations that are not > effective. > > > I can organize such a townhall meeting in Chiromo like the first one. > > > However, for such a meeting to be useful, it needs to be preceded by > some > > > guided discussion on the same. Alternatively, one or two persons can > > > prepare presenations to guide the discussions, with these presentations > > > being made available earlier for participants to acquint with them. I > am > > > also prepared to be one of those persons. tim > > > > > > On Sun, Apr 4, 2010 at 9:10 PM, Barrack Otieno > > > <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com>wrote: > > > > > >> Daktari, > > >> > > >> Thank you for setting the ball rolling, not sure i saw the document as > > >> well it must have been hijacked. A town hall meeting is a welcome idea > > >> i second it, Kippra felt sufficiently philanthropic before the last > > >> town hall meeting i wonder whether they can double their offer during > > >> this easter season, bwn Magolo can we count on you. Walu can set the > > >> agenda. > > >> > > >> Regards > > >> > > >> On Sun, Apr 4, 2010 at 7:28 PM, Solomon Mburu Kamau > > >> <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > >> > On 04/04/2010, bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> wrote: > > >> >> Barrack, > > >> >> Several posts have come by on the role of ICT and I think it will > be > > >> wise > > >> >> if we sorted this in a town hall meeting similar to one we had on > > >> Malili. > > >> >> Honestly it feels as though some Neanderthal decided to create > these > > >> >> agencies without putting some thought to it. Criticisms are good > only > > >> >> when you point out where there are gaps. > > >> >> > > >> >> The other day I posted a policy proposal for comments but only one > > >> person > > >> >> did respond. What it means then is that this forum ni ya > kuchongoana > > >> tu. > > >> > > > >> > Dakitari, with due respect, would you mind resending the policy > > >> > proposals as a new thread so that interested parties may respond? > > >> > If sent within this thread, I'm afraid they'll be swallowed along > the > > >> way. > > >> > > > >> >> Which really is unfortunate. I have four other policy proposals > that I > > >> >> really think should push through then arouse sufficient interest > from > > >> the > > >> >> membership here. > > >> > > > >> > I also think you should send them so that we react to the contents! > > >> >> > > >> >> > > >> >> Ndemo. > > >> >> > > >> >> > > >> >>> This is truly "Jicho Pevu", i think some answers to this questions > are > > >> >>> very much in order as we celebrate Easter, can someone provide us > with > > >> >>> a list of all agencies involved in ICTs and ICT4D so that we can > do > > >> >>> some tooth comb analysis, i saw a post from Paul on what the > board > > >> >>> has achieved early this year, that was very much in order we need > > >> >>> something from NCS as well plus any other agencies. > > >> >>> > > >> >>> Regards > > >> >>> > > >> >>> On Sat, Apr 3, 2010 at 12:50 PM, Vitalis Olunga < > volunga(a)yahoo.com> > > >> wrote: > > >> >>>> There is also another body , National Communications Secretarait. > What > > >> >>>> is > > >> >>>> the diffrence between NCS and ICT Baord and how do the two bodies > > >> relate > > >> >>>> with respect to advisory services to the governement on ICT > matters? > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> Regards > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> Vitalis > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> ________________________________ > > >> >>>> From: robert yawe <robertyawe(a)yahoo.co.uk> > > >> >>>> To: volunga(a)yahoo.com > > >> >>>> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > >> >>>> Sent: Sat, April 3, 2010 12:03:22 PM > > >> >>>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Who is ICT Board? Hijacked > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> Hi, > > >> >>>> I rest my case on this issue, the ICT Board is a monolith, Try > > >> >>>> reading this... (pdf file), as I feared it is mandated to do > anything > > >> >>>> and > > >> >>>> everything under the sun that could be called ICT which includes > your > > >> >>>> microwave oven and copier. > > >> >>>> Functions of Kenya ICT Board > > >> >>>> The core functions of Kenya ICT Board as documented in the Kenya > > >> Gazette > > >> >>>> Legal Notice No 26 of the May 2007: > > >> >>>> ? To advice the government on all relevant matters pertaining to > > >> >>>> development, coordination (remember the PM post) and promotion > of > ICT > > >> >>>> industries in the country. > > >> >>>> ? Promote both locally and internationally the opportunities for > > >> >>>> investments in ICT technology > > >> >>>> ? Facilitate and manage ICT industrial incubation parks and > > >> technology > > >> >>>> parks together with associated facilities on sites, estates and > land. > > >> >>>> ? Partner with agents within and without the country to carry > out > > >> such > > >> >>>> functions as it may consider necessary. > > >> >>>> ? To transform and empower society through deployment and use of > > >> ICTs. > > >> >>>> ? Carry out any other activity to promote and develop ICT > products > > >> and > > >> >>>> services. > > >> >>>> Have a restful Easter as we await the limited range 4G, yes you > > >> guessed > > >> >>>> it I > > >> >>>> still have a 3G issue and I am in Nairobi. > > >> >>>> Regards > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> _______________________________________________ > > >> >>>> kictanet mailing list > > >> >>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > >> >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com > > >> >>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > > >> >>>> > > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail > . > com > > >> >>>> > > >> >>>> > > >> >>> > > >> >>> > > >> >>> > > >> >>> -- > > >> >>> Barrack O. Otieno > > >> >>> Geneva > > >> >>> Skype: barrack.otieno > > >> >>> > > >> >>> _______________________________________________ > > >> >>> kictanet mailing list > > >> >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > >> >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > >> >>> > > >> >>> This message was sent to: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke > > >> >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > > >> >>> > > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/bitange%40jambo.co.ke > > >> >>> > > >> >>> ---------------------------------------------- > > >> >>> This message has been scanned for viruses and > > >> >>> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is > > >> >>> believed to be clean. > > >> >>> --------------------------------------------- > > >> >>> "easy access to the world" > > >> >>> > > >> >>> > > >> >> > > >> >> > > >> >> > > >> >> ---------------------------------------------- > > >> >> This message has been scanned for viruses and > > >> >> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is > > >> >> believed to be clean. > > >> >> --------------------------------------------- > > >> >> "easy access to the world" > > >> >> > > >> >> > > >> >> _______________________________________________ > > >> >> kictanet mailing list > > >> >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > >> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > >> >> > > >> >> This message was sent to: solo.mburu(a)gmail.com > > >> >> Unsubscribe or change your options at > > >> >> > > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/solo.mburu%40gmail.com > > >> >> > > >> > > > >> > > > >> > -- > > >> > Solomon Mb?r? Kamau > > >> > P.O. Box 19343 - 00202 Nairobi > > >> > Cell: (+254-0) 735 431041 > > >> > > > >> > Man is a gregarious animal and enjoys agreement as cows will graze > all > > >> > the same way to the side of a hill! > > >> > > > >> > AND > > >> > > > >> > It is better to die in dignity than in the ignomity of ambiguous > > >> generosity! > > >> > > > >> > http://dawn-in-kenya.blogspot.com > > >> > http://smiley2.wordpress.com > > >> > http://mburu.sikika.co.ke > > >> > > > >> > _______________________________________________ > > >> > kictanet mailing list > > >> > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > >> > > > >> > This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com > > >> > Unsubscribe or change your options at > > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail > . > com > > >> > > > >> > > >> > > >> > > >> -- > > >> Barrack O. Otieno > > >> Palais de Nations Genéve > > >> Skype: barrack.otieno > > >> > > >> _______________________________________________ > > >> kictanet mailing list > > >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > >> > > >> This message was sent to: timwololo(a)gmail.com > > >> Unsubscribe or change your options at > > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/timwololo%40gmail.com > > >> > > > > > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > This message was sent to: emailsignet(a)mailcan.com > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > > > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emailsignet%40mailcan.c > om > > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: emmanuel.khisa(a)kadet.co.ke > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emmanuel.khisa%40kadet > . > co.ke > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: kamothonjenga(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kamothonjenga%40gmail.… >

2 1

Re: [kictanet] Telkom Orange - a service nightmare
by S.Murigi Muraya 06 Apr '10

06 Apr '10

Lets keep in mind every company has its primary DNA. Telkom Orange focused on voice & data (connectivity & throughput) services not web (hosting) services. In fact it is alarming to think of telecom (network) infrastructure companies being expected to design, build, develop a major Government portal. This would better be left to companies focused on (web) software development. The infrastructure companies that may do better on the hosting (not web or software development) side of things are likely to be more data center (computing) than network connectivity (service provider) focused. SMM -----Original Message----- From: Harry Delano <harry(a)comtelsys.co.ke> Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 18:46 To: murigi.muraya(a)gmail.com Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Telkom Orange - a service nightmare Hey Robert, I commisserate on this. It is frustrations we all undergo with service providers. However - hopefully not at the risk of sticking my neck out, I do feel we can keep the language civil while we go about the business of raising pertinent issues on the forum. Lest we run the risk of the list being "blacklisted" as one bent on "Character assasination" - with nothing meaniful coming out of it.. Anyone, from Orange on the listing - Please take this up, asap and deal with Robert directly... Regards, Harry From: kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of robert yawe Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 4:52 PM To: harry(a)comtelsys.co.ke Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: [kictanet] Telkom Orange - a service nightmare Hi, It is scary our Telkom's service has gone from bad to horrible, so I ask is Orange a savour or just a corporate raider? For over 3 weeks a client of ours who has been hosting their domain with Jambo was unable to send mail he reported the issue to the support department and their was no response. Finally on Thursday they moved the domain hosting to another provider. This morning another client has become the process of moving his domain away from Jambo, what shocks me is that I have also written mail to the support and marketing people on both issues with no response. Even at the height of Telkom's inefficiencies I never experienced such a negative attention to my issues. This is a clear indication that the organisation truly required the 17,000 staff members it had, now they have been reduced to 3,500

1 0

[Fwd: ICANN Fellowship Webinar: 28 April]
by Michuki Mwangi 06 Apr '10

06 Apr '10

Apologies if you may have received this from other lists. -------- Original Message -------- Subject: ICANN Fellowship Webinar: 28 April Date: Mon, 5 Apr 2010 10:25:58 -0700 From: Janice Douma Lange <janice.lange(a)icann.org> On *28 April 2010*, ICANN staff will describe the *Fellowship Program* in an *interactive webinar*, to be held at *18:00-19:00 GMT/UTC.* *We would like to engage you in outreach on ICANN’s behalf, to distribute the announcement of the Webinar on the Fellowship Program to your constituency, your community and individuals. Please encourage **those who may not be aware of the program, have shown interest but are still not sure about the program’s intent or benefits, **or need a refresher course to register on the eLearning page of the ICANN website and call into this webinar later this month. With outreach and engagement, we will bring new participants into the ICANN community, and with new participants, eventually new ideas and leadership to continue carrying the mission and vision of a truly global internet into the future.* *Fellowship Program Overview — *Register <http://icann.na3.acrobat.com/e71529160/event/registration.html> *Thank you as always for your support**J**and feel free to listen in yourselves!* * * *Janice*

2 1

Software Quality Assurance and Testing Bootcamp
by Andrea Bohnstedt 06 Apr '10

06 Apr '10

In the context of capacity building in the ICT sector, maybe interesting: Software Quality Assurance and Testing Bootcamp in Nairobi, 12 - 16 April 2010, taught by Roland Omoresemi: http://www.ratio-magazine.com/201004062647/Business-Diary/KENYA-SOFTWARE-QU… Have a good week, Andrea Bohnstedt

1 0