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Fw: [ISOC] ISOC launches IGF 2009 Ambassador Program
by alice munyua 06 Jun '09

06 Jun '09

For those who follow global internet governance policy processes, this could be a chance to attend the 4th IGF which will be held in Egypt in November. Best Alice ------Original Message------ From: Constance Bommelaer Sender: isoc-members-announce-bounces(a)elists.isoc.org To: isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org Subject: [ISOC] ISOC launches IGF 2009 Ambassador Program Sent: Jun 4, 2009 4:35 PM Dear all, Following the successful ISOC Ambassador program to the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) in 2005, to the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Rio in 2007 and in Hyderabad in 2008, we are pleased to announce a call for expressions of interest to participate in the ISOC Ambassador program to the Internet Governance Forum meeting in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, in November 2009. As part of the ISOC Internet Leaders program, the Ambassador program is designed to involve members in ISOC's global engagement activities while providing valuable expertise and know-how to the IGF meeting in Sharm El Sheikh. This year, ISOC is supporting not only the participation of first time Ambassadors, but also of returning Ambassadors to the Internet Governance Forum. The IGF 2009 meeting will take place Sunday 15 through Wednesday 18 November 2009. Interested individuals should be available to arrive no later than Saturday 14 November. Further details on ISOC's IGF 2009 Ambassador program can be found here: http://www.isoc.org/pubpolpillar/igfambassadors/ Read also about: ISOC Internet Leaders program: http://www.isoc.org/leaders/ Internet Governance Forum: http://www.intgovforum.org/cms/ Best regards, Constance Bommelaer Senior Manager Strategic Global Engagement Internet Society (ISOC) +41 22 807 14 48 +33 6 62 17 31 86 http://www.isoc.org _______________________________________________ Isoc-members-announce mailing list Isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org http://elists.isoc.org/mailman/listinfo/isoc-members-announce

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Re: [kictanet] Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions, Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
by Jotham Kilimo Mwale 05 Jun '09

05 Jun '09

Gilda, You are right when you say we must develop both domestic and international markets in tandem. But I think there is something to lose when the focus is too much on international market. We lose the opportunity to develop the domestic market, which, in my view, is one of the basic building block for the BPO sector in terms of capacity building/ experience which in turn will give confidence to the international market. When we talk of bad publicity for this country hampering the growth/attractiveness of the international BPO market, I believe a vibrant domestic BPO market will counter that (bad image) in a more convincing manner than asking the media to tone down on divisive politics, and will make the work easier for our international marketers. Also, I think that the move taken by some local companies to have their own in-house call/contact centres rather than outsource is a statement of 'no confidence' on the BPO operators. It has just made marketing Kenya as a BPO destination a little more difficult. Regards, Jotham --- On Thu, 6/4/09, godera(a)skyweb.co.ke <godera(a)skyweb.co.ke> wrote: From: godera(a)skyweb.co.ke <godera(a)skyweb.co.ke> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions, Legal and Regulatory Frameworks To: jokilimo(a)yahoo.com Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Date: Thursday, June 4, 2009, 4:59 AM Peres, I fully agree with your sentiments. I especially am of the very strong opinion (and I stand stoned by some) that we must develop both domestic and international markets in tandem. Much as there has been a school of thought that we focus on domestic first, I beg to differ. We need to do so in tandem with the international market. What have we to lose? Gilda > > > External perception is absolutely critical in the race to obtain > international BPO contracts. No one wants to outsource to a country > which they 'percieve' as unstable, or which they percieve as > underdeveloped. The truth is that most executives in our source > markets for BPO work, in particular USA, percieve Africa as one > country with a myriad of ills: > > Somalia -Pirates > Congo - Wars > Darfur- kicking out the Aid organizations, starvation > Kenya ? Post Elections Violence > Nigeria ? 419 Scams > Zimbabwe ? Cholera and Inflation > Etc., etc. > > The best way to counter these perceptions is to have in-coming trade > delegations from our source markets, so they can see for themselves > what Kenya has to offer. > > W need to work on changing these negative perceptions of Kenya/Africa, > BUT at the same time build up our internal capacity. We cannot do one > without the other. Local outsourcing market needs to be developed in > tandem with the international. > > Peres > > Quoting Barrack Otieno <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com>: > > > Colleagues your comments are right, however we seemed to be more inclined > at > > external perceptions as opposed to building up internal capacity, must it > > take foreigners to show us our potential? > > > > On Thu, Jun 4, 2009 at 9:01 AM, munyiva ngea <munyivangea(a)gmail.com> > wrote: > > > >> Good morning, > >> > >> I agree with Peter about perception take Mauritius for example the > >> Board of Investment and the BPO Vendors strive to change the > >> perception of the country as a mere tourist attraction to an ICT Hub. > >> They invite prospective investors or clients to the country take them > >> to their lavish well equipped offices, which are probably located in > >> Ebene Cyber City the landing point of the Submarine cable so the > >> clients are assured of available internet infrastructure.After the > >> site visit the clients are then whisked away to have a fantastic > >> weekend on the beaches or on a boat. Simply put they show clients they > >> can do much more than provide BPO services they can offer quality of > >> life. > >> > >> To answer Question 3 i think without the government and local vendors > >> taking decisive steps to attract and retain investors and clients to > >> the country. Basically we need to give officials who are marketing the > >> country the funds to be able to invite the prospective investors and > >> clients to the country to show them we sufficient infrastructure and > >> Human resources. > >> > >> In order to build confidence in the country's capabilities we have to > >> have to EVIDENCE of these capabilities take India for example with its > >> National Skills Registry which is an industry initiative to ensure > >> that individuals employed by organizations have their background and > >> antecedents verified > >> (http://news.indiamart.com/news-analysis/national-skills-regi-13182.html) > >> prospective clients need only to browse through the site to be assured > >> that the country has the Human resource capacity needed. What about > >> Kenya apart from various websites which allow individuals to upload > >> their CVs where can a prospective client get information on the > >> available agents, software developers and so on?? this information is > >> not available on various institutional websites (universities, > >> colleges) so how do we expect a client to actually believe that we are > >> capable if we are unable to show it (Perception again!!) > >> > >> > >> > >> -- > >> Best regards > >> Munyiva Ngea > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> 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 > > ISSEN CONSULTING > > Tel: > > +254721325277 > > +254733206359 > > http://projectdiscovery.or.ke > > To give up the task of reforming society is to give up ones responsibility > > as a free man. > > Alan Paton, South Africa > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: godera(a)skyweb.co.ke > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/godera%40skyweb.co.ke > ------------------------------------------------- This mail sent through IMP: http://horde.org/imp/ _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet This message was sent to: jokilimo(a)yahoo.com Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jokilimo%40yahoo.com

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Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions, Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
by Walubengo J 05 Jun '09

05 Jun '09

Morning all, Yesterday was like my 1st day in school - what a rich learning experience! Thanx to Waema, Nyaki, Barrack, Otuoma, and MM whose contributions were quite enlightening. Of the two questions asked, it appears that we need both comprehensive ICT and BPO Policies and Strategies. With regard to National BPO strategies and targets we learnt that there was quite some detail at the Ministry of Planning and the BPO Society which could benefit members if made widely accessible. Today we move from the Policy to the Legal, Regulatory Frameworks. The Research study found very comprehensive Legal and Regulatory environment in S.Africa, India and Mauritius that supported their BPO industry. Specifically, laws that took care of eTransactions, eCrime, Copyrights and Data Protection were well established. Furthermore their BPO Industries had adopted stringent Quality Assurance Frameworks for BPO and Contact Center Operations. The Researchers found that the case for Kenya was relatively comparable - with the recently enacted KCA Act (2009) that deals with eCrime & eTransactions leading the way, others like the Copyright Act (2001) as well as the Freedom of Information Bill cuurently at an advanced stage providing an encouraging Legal/Regulatory environment. Which brings us to the following two questions: Q3: With submarine cables landing next week and given the above legal/regulatory frameworks, how comes Kenya is NOT experiencing the anticipated boom in the BPO sector? What should we do to get local and foreign investors to show more confidence in the BPO industry? Q4: Could there be gaps in our Legal, Regulatory and Institutional frameworks that need to be addresssed? Put in black and white- Why hasn't Safaricom, Orange, Zain and several local Banks who have all opened their own very large Call-Centers NOT shown confidence in the BPO sector by outsourcing their operations to local BPO operators? What of the Government itself? Why cant it outsource non-core functions to the local BPO operators before trying attract foreign investors to do the same? The floor is open, we have only today to get comments/answers to these issues. walu.

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Re: [kictanet] Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions, Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
by munyiva ngea 05 Jun '09

05 Jun '09

Good morning, I agree with Peter about perception take Mauritius for example the Board of Investment and the BPO Vendors strive to change the perception of the country as a mere tourist attraction to an ICT Hub. They invite prospective investors or clients to the country take them to their lavish well equipped offices, which are probably located in Ebene Cyber City the landing point of the Submarine cable so the clients are assured of available internet infrastructure.After the site visit the clients are then whisked away to have a fantastic weekend on the beaches or on a boat. Simply put they show clients they can do much more than provide BPO services they can offer quality of life. To answer Question 3 i think without the government and local vendors taking decisive steps to attract and retain investors and clients to the country. Basically we need to give officials who are marketing the country the funds to be able to invite the prospective investors and clients to the country to show them we sufficient infrastructure and Human resources. In order to build confidence in the country's capabilities we have to have to EVIDENCE of these capabilities take India for example with its National Skills Registry which is an industry initiative to ensure that individuals employed by organizations have their background and antecedents verified (http://news.indiamart.com/news-analysis/national-skills-regi-13182.html) prospective clients need only to browse through the site to be assured that the country has the Human resource capacity needed. What about Kenya apart from various websites which allow individuals to upload their CVs where can a prospective client get information on the available agents, software developers and so on?? this information is not available on various institutional websites (universities, colleges) so how do we expect a client to actually believe that we are capable if we are unable to show it (Perception again!!) -- Best regards Munyiva Ngea

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Re: [kictanet] Day 3 of 10- BPO Discussions, Institutional Frameworks
by Walubengo J 05 Jun '09

05 Jun '09

Eric, I like your query on what level should we as a country play within the BPO value chain. At the moment, I believe we are at the entry (low value) chain i.e. Call Center/Telemarketing which some Analyst have claimed are just electronic "hawkers" with minimal income at both individual and national level. We definately need to scale up to high-end BPO work such as software engineering, accounting, hr, etc. But I think we cannot avoid starting from the bottom. And that is where we are. As for Incentive issues, we shall cover them in tmrws theme. regards. walu. --- On Thu, 6/4/09, Eric Aligula <jairah(a)KIPPRA.OR.KE> wrote: > From: Eric Aligula <jairah(a)KIPPRA.OR.KE> > Subject: RE: [kictanet] Day 3 of 10- BPO Discussions, Institutional Frameworks > To: "Walubengo J" <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> > Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Date: Thursday, June 4, 2009, 10:22 AM > Dear All: > > Good morning! > > If I missed it, I apologize. I have two questions: > > 1. Are we agreed on which portion of the > BPO value Chain we want to enter? > 2. If we are in agreement, what should > the appropriate Incentive Regime be? > > The question regarding the speed with which speed with > which we identify and articulate our policy and other > incentive frameworks is something that must be addressed as > a matter of priority. In the fluid environment that > the global arena is, our slow processes will remain a major > headache. > > Kind regards > > Eric Aligula Magolo, PhD > Senior Analyst > Infrastructure and Economic Services Division > Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis > (KIPPRA) > P.O. Box 56445, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya > Telephone: +254-20-2719933/4 > Fax: +254-20-2719951 > E-mail: jairah(a)kippra.or.ke > URL: www.kippra.org > > > Proudly Kenyan > "In the long history of the world, only a few generations > have been granted the role of defending freedom in its hour > of maximum danger. I do not shrink from this > responsibility..........I welcome it." > John F. Kennedy > "All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men > to do nothing." > Edmund Burke > "Far better to dare mighty things, to win glorious > triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to take > rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor > suffer much, because they live in the gray twilight that > knows not victory, nor defeat." > Theodore Roosevelt > "Ex Africa semper aliquid novi" > > Repfor-----Original Message----- > RepforFrom: kictanet-bounces+jairah=kippra.or.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > Repfor[mailto:[email protected]] > RepforOn Behalf Of Walubengo J > RepforSent: Thursday, June 04, 2009 8:14 AM > RepforTo: Eric Aligula > RepforCc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > RepforSubject: [kictanet] Day 3 of 10- BPO Discussions, > Institutional > RepforFrameworks > Repfor > Repfor > Repfor > RepforDear Listers, > Repfor > RepforI am encouraged by the flood of ideas that kicked in > after Bill and > RepforDr. Ndemo's interventions. Ofcourse Kenduiywo, > Bakuli and Peres > Repforyour discourse is as insightful as that of MM and > Barrack. Lets > Repforkeep the ideas flowing on previous themes even as we > move onto > Repfortoday's theme - just ensure you pick against the > corresponding > Repforsubject line and post. > Repfor > RepforI wish to open today's theme on Institutional > Frameworks. The > RepforResearchers found that in S.Africa, Mauritius, and > India, the > RepforPrivate Sector BPO lobby groups, Data Security Groups > and > RepforGovernment Agencies were working harmoniously with > clear, non- > Repforoverlapping mandates to support the BPO sector. In > Kenya it was > Repforfound that several bodies were involved in the BPO > Sector. These > Repforwere largely Government agencies such as the Min of > Education > Repfor(Technology Parks), Kenya ICT Board, KenInvest, > Export Promotion > RepforCouncil, CCK amongst others. The biggest challenge in > Kenya was > Repforthat there seemed to be no overall, cordinating body > overseeing > Repforthese functions - leading to alot of duplicated and > un-cordinated > Repforeffort from the various Players. And so our next Qtn > is: > Repfor > RepforQtn 5: What needs to be done to improve/strengthen > the > Repforinstitutional framework in order for the BPO and > outsourcing sector > Repforto play its planned role in the Kenyan economy? > Repfor > RepforWe have today on this since tmrw we shall move into > the Government > RepforSubsidiy/Incentive Issues for the BPO Sector. > Repfor > Repforwalu. > Repfor > Repfor > Repfor > Repfor > Repfor > Repfor_______________________________________________ > Repforkictanet mailing list > Repforkictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > Repforhttp://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > Repfor > RepforThis message was sent to: jairah(a)kippra.or.ke > RepforUnsubscribe or change your options at > Repforhttp://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jairah%40kippr > Repfora.or.ke >

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Day 3 of 10- BPO Discussions, Institutional Frameworks
by Walubengo J 05 Jun '09

05 Jun '09

Dear Listers, I am encouraged by the flood of ideas that kicked in after Bill and Dr. Ndemo's interventions. Ofcourse Kenduiywo, Bakuli and Peres your discourse is as insightful as that of MM and Barrack. Lets keep the ideas flowing on previous themes even as we move onto today's theme - just ensure you pick against the corresponding subject line and post. I wish to open today's theme on Institutional Frameworks. The Researchers found that in S.Africa, Mauritius, and India, the Private Sector BPO lobby groups, Data Security Groups and Government Agencies were working harmoniously with clear, non-overlapping mandates to support the BPO sector. In Kenya it was found that several bodies were involved in the BPO Sector. These were largely Government agencies such as the Min of Education (Technology Parks), Kenya ICT Board, KenInvest, Export Promotion Council, CCK amongst others. The biggest challenge in Kenya was that there seemed to be no overall, cordinating body overseeing these functions - leading to alot of duplicated and un-cordinated effort from the various Players. And so our next Qtn is: Qtn 5: What needs to be done to improve/strengthen the institutional framework in order for the BPO and outsourcing sector to play its planned role in the Kenyan economy? We have today on this since tmrw we shall move into the Government Subsidiy/Incentive Issues for the BPO Sector. walu.

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[Fwd: [ISOC] ISOC launches IGF 2009 Ambassador Program]
by Michuki Mwangi 04 Jun '09

04 Jun '09

FYI -------- Original Message -------- Subject: [ISOC] ISOC launches IGF 2009 Ambassador Program Date: Thu, 4 Jun 2009 15:35:43 +0200 From: Constance Bommelaer <bommelaer(a)isoc.org> To: <isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org> Dear all, Following the successful ISOC Ambassador program to the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) in 2005, to the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Rio in 2007 and in Hyderabad in 2008, we are pleased to announce a call for expressions of interest to participate in the ISOC Ambassador program to the Internet Governance Forum meeting in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, in November 2009. As part of the ISOC Internet Leaders program, the Ambassador program is designed to involve members in ISOC's global engagement activities while providing valuable expertise and know-how to the IGF meeting in Sharm El Sheikh. This year, ISOC is supporting not only the participation of first time Ambassadors, but also of returning Ambassadors to the Internet Governance Forum. The IGF 2009 meeting will take place Sunday 15 through Wednesday 18 November 2009. Interested individuals should be available to arrive no later than Saturday 14 November. Further details on ISOC's IGF 2009 Ambassador program can be found here: http://www.isoc.org/pubpolpillar/igfambassadors/ Read also about: ISOC Internet Leaders program: http://www.isoc.org/leaders/ Internet Governance Forum: http://www.intgovforum.org/cms/ Best regards, Constance Bommelaer Senior Manager Strategic Global Engagement Internet Society (ISOC) +41 22 807 14 48 +33 6 62 17 31 86 http://www.isoc.org <http://www.isoc.org/> _______________________________________________ Isoc-members-announce mailing list Isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org http://elists.isoc.org/mailman/listinfo/isoc-members-announce

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Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 25, Issue 28
by Matunda Nyanchama 04 Jun '09

04 Jun '09

Dear all, I am glad to join this list and see the vibrant discussions here and exchange of ideas! It is refreshing. Question: given the volume of mail from the list (my inbox is nearly full for the last short while), is there a way to read messages and contribute to the list on the web? Regards ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Matunda Nyanchama, mnyanchama(a)aganoconsulting.com Agano Consulting Inc.; www.aganoconsulting.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “If you have less than 1 year to invest, plant rice. If you have 10 to 25 yearsto invest, build a house. If you have more than 25 years to invest, invest in your children" - Anonymous. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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Notice:-BPO eDiscussion, June 2nd-15th, 2009
by Walubengo J 04 Jun '09

04 Jun '09

Dear esteemed Listers (& apologies for cross-posting), I must seek your apologies for having to bring forth the BPO discussion ahead of the eContent Discussion as earlier planned. This is due to the fact that the BPO research undertaken by UoN, Prof. T. Waema et al has some strict publishing deadlines and he did NOT want to go to press without feedback from the community. We therefore seek your indulgence to ran the BPO discussion next week from Tuesday 2nd June 2009 for 2weeks according to the following themes and specifications: e-Discussion outline: 1. The policy, legal and institutional frameworks for BPO sector (2days, Walu moderating) 2. Subsidies accorded to BPO sector (2days, Walu moderating) 3. Human Capacity Issues (2days, Walu moderating) 4. Youth and Gender Issues (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating) 5. Strengths and Challenges for Kenya as a BPO destination (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating) The Aim of the e-discussion is to: Present the interim findings from the BPO research team and to get inputs from the ICT community and other e-participants in Kenya. The Objectives of the e-discussion are: * to share the interim findings of the BPO study * to obtain inputs from the e-participants * to begin to build consensus on the policy implications The Outputs The main output is a summary of the e-participants contributions. This summary will be used to enrich the findings to be presented in a stakeholders' workshop at the end of June 2009. We look forward to your active contribution to this important discussion next week and promise to run the eContent discussion soon after. walu.

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Re: [kictanet] [Skunkworks] Fw: [ISOC] Nominations for 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award Due by29 May
by alice 04 Jun '09

04 Jun '09

Please note that the deadline is today. More information about the award, the nomination procedure, and about Jon Postel's life and contributions is available at: http://www.isoc.org/postel/ best alice Solomon Mburu wrote: > Wow, that's impressive Ochuodo's credentials. I've got one question > here: Where are we supposed to send the nominations? Is it on this > list or there is a specific site? If so, which one? Alice...?! > > On 29/05/2009, Theus Owicho <owichot(a)gmail.com> wrote: > >> *Name:* Dr. Shem J. *OCHUODHO * >> >> >> >> ** *Nationality:* Kenyan * >> * >> >> * >> * >> >> *Date of Birth:* 29.12.60 >> >> >> *Languages:* *Speaking* *Reading* *Writing* >> >> >> English Excellent Excellent Excellent >> >> >> Dholuo Excellent Excellent Excellent >> >> >> Kiswahili Good Excellent Good >> >> >> >> >> >> *ACADEMIC QUALIFICATIONS* >> >> 2004: *LLD (Honorary)*, Marlboro College, Vermont, USA for "Successful >> Contribution and Combination of *Innovation, Business and Politics*" >> >> >> 1992: *Ph.D* in Computer Science, Specialising in *Software Engineering >> and Database Technology*, York University, United Kingdom. >> >> >> 1987: *MSc* in Electrical Engineering, Specialising in *Electronics and >> Telecommunications*, University of Nairobi, Kenya. >> >> >> 1984: *BSc* in Mathematics and Phyiscs, University of Nairobi, Kenya. >> >> *KEY QUALIFICATIONS (PROFESSIONAL)* >> >> Dr. Ochuodho is the *ICT Advisor to Minister of State in Charge of Energy >> and Communications*, Government of Rwanda (since May 2006). He also recently >> served as the * Chairman of the NEPAD Inter-Governmental Working >> Sub-Committee (IG-WSC)* mandated to evolve a common promotion strategy for >> the East African Sub-Marine Cable System (*EASSy*) among the policy makers, >> regulators, operators, development finance institutions (DFIs), and the >> civil society. >> >> He was previously the *Executive Director *of the *Rwanda Information >> Technology Authority *(*RITA, *June 2005 – May 2006*). * >> >> Dr Ochuodho is a former *Managing Director of the Kenya Pipeline Company >> (KPC) Limited *(March 2003 – December 2004). KPC is the State Corporation >> charged with the transportation, storage, and handling of petroleum >> products. It operates and manages a 900-km pipeline network from >> Mombasa-Nairobi-Kisumu-Eldoret. Apart from handling more than 80% of Kenya's >> refined petroleum supplies, KPC also moves most of the products used in >> Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Northern Tanzania, and parts of the Democratic >> Republic of Congo (DRC). >> >> He is a past * Chairman and Founder* of the African Regional Centre for >> Computing (*ARCC*). ARCC is a research and training organization whose main >> purport is to promote the use and development of computing and >> communications technologies, and a pioneer Internet service provider in >> Sub-Sahara Africa. >> >> He has previously lead a team of *Senior* *Consultants engaged by the >> International Telecommunication Union (ITU)* on behalf of the SADC >> Telecommunications Operators Association (SATA) looking at network >> modernization and expansion with specific focus on the improvement of >> transmission, signalling and switching systems as well as the establishment >> of national and regional Internet exchange points (IXPs) within the SADC >> region. >> >> He has also previously served as the *Lead Consultant in the UNESCO/UNDP >> National Information and Communications Infrastructure (NICI) Policy >> Framework Project*, which seeks to work with the Kenya Government through >> the Ministry of Information and Communications, the Office of the Government >> Spokesperson, and the E-Government Directorate in the Office of the >> President to develop a NICI Policy Framework, realize and implement a >> National ICT Policy, facilitate the implementation of the E-Government >> Strategy, and support the related Capacity-building process. >> >> He was the * Founding Convenor and Vice-Chairman of the Kenya ICT Trust Fund >> *, an initiative of 20 leading Private and Public Corporates working under >> the aegis of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology that seeks to >> assist at least 80% of all public secondary schools to establish computer >> laboratories for educational purposes. As a related exercise, Microsoft >> contracted ARCC to oversee the establishment of a computer refurbishment >> centre to churn out about 4,000 computer units per month destined for 10 >> Eastern and Central African countries. During the time, ARCC was also >> contracted by MultiChoice Africa to train and support 10 identified schools, >> 6 of which were members of the NEPAD e-Schools programme. He continues to be >> a Member of the Kenya's e-Schools National Steering Committee. >> >> He is highly experienced in computing/software technology and information >> systems development. He is at the frontier of his profession in *developing, >> promoting and spreading Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in >> Africa particularly in Rwanda, Kenya* (and the environs) in several sectors >> including trade and commerce, health, education, and international >> networking. In the field of information systems development, Dr. >> Ochuodhohas considerable consulting experience in advising and >> assisting >> Governments, businesses, institutions and other organisations to identify >> and define their data and information needs as well as in selection, >> installation and maintenance of software and hardware that best serve their >> needs at reasonable cost. His previous clients include UN agencies, >> Governments of Kenya & Eritrea, Embassies, International Organisations >> (including the then European Commission), Donor Organisations, and the >> Private Sector. Dr. Ochuodho served *as the Consultant* to develop the >> UNCTAD sponsored Trade Point for Kenya and was designated by UNCTAD as the >> focal point to mirror it's Trade Point World-Wide Web Homepage in Africa. He >> has also worked with small scale producers and exporters to develop a >> database and trade information systems to enhance their business >> performance. In addition, he has worked with the Office of the Attorney >> General to look at the legal aspects of IT (including intellectual property >> rights and trade laws) as well as application of IT in the administration of >> justice--legal informatics. >> >> In collaboration with the then Ministry of Research, Technical Training and >> Technology (MRTT&T), he spearheaded the development of the first draft >> National IT Policy for Kenya. At the turn of the Century, he was deeply >> involved with the Ministry of Finance on a *pro-bono* basis in seeking ways >> to stem the *Millennium or Year 2000 Computer Bug (Y2K)*, being a Member of >> the National Y2K Steering Committee as the ICT industry representative. >> >> From 1997-2002, Dr Ochuodho was Member of Parliament for Rangwe >> Constituency. As the Lead Expert and Member of the *Communications Committee >> *, he was instrumental in the harmonizing and lobbying for the passage of >> the * Telecom Bill*, which liberalized the telecommunications sector and >> popularized Internet and mobile phone services. He was Founding Secretary of >> the ruling party's (NARC's) Co-ordinating Committee and Council. >> >> He previously worked with *Eriteria's Ministry of Communications* as *a >> Consultant* to develop a national communications policy. He has also served >> as * External Examiner in Computer Science to the University of Zimbabwe*. >> He has *published extensively*. >> >> >> *WORK EXPERIENCE:* >> >> *Current Position*: ICT Advisor to Minister of State in charge of Energy >> and Communications (since May 2006). *Immediate Past Position*: Executive >> Director, Rwanda Information Technology Authority (RITA – between June 2005 >> & May 2006) >> >> *Other Recent Responsibilities*: >> >> • Chairman and Co-Founder of the African Regional Centre for Computing >> (ARCC, Nairobi). Senior Consultant in various UN projects – (January-June >> 2005). >> >> • Managing Director, Kenya Pipeline Company Limited (March 2003-December >> 2004). >> >> • National Chairman of the Computer Society of Kenya >> >> >> • Member of the Planning Committee of ITU's Telecom Forums. >> >> >> • Chairman of the Interim Committee of the African Internet Group (AIG). >> >> >> • Founding Chairman of the Kenya Association for the Advancement of >> Computer Technology (KAACT, Incorp. USA). >> >> >> • Chairman of the African Very Large Database Steering Committee. >> >> >> • Member of Parliament for Rangwe, and Member of Parliamentary >> Communications Committee (December 1997-December 2002). >> >> >> • Advisor to the UNESCO Intergovernmental Informatics Programme >> Committee. >> >> >> • External Examiner in Computer Science for the University of Zimbabwe, >> Harare. >> >> >> • Referee/Reviewer for several leading international and regional >> journals. >> >> >> 1993-1994:* Senior Lecturer in Computer Science, Kenyatta University, >> Kenya.* Taught and supervised several undergraduate and postgraduate >> students. Started the Computer Centre at the University. With others, >> conceived the African Virtual University (AVU) idea. >> >> >> 1987-1993:* Lecturer/Tutorial Fellow*, Institute of Computer Science, >> University of Nairobi, Kenya. Supervised several projects by >> postgraduate >> and undergraduate students, and taught the following courses: >> >> >> • Fundamentals of Computer Science to Science & Engineering undergraduate >> students. >> >> >> • Computer Technology and Database Systems Design to Postgraduate >> students. >> >> >> • In the same period, the National Council for Science and Technology >> (NCST), in collaboration with the now defunct Kenya Posts and >> Telecommunications, funded his project, which culminated in a >> subscriber-based monitoring unit. >> >> >> • Research Assistant with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) >> attached to the African Institute for Higher Technical Training >> & Research, >> Nairobi (June - October 1988). >> >> >> 1992: Post-doctoral research fellowship at York University, UK, and >> Visiting scholar, University of California (Berkeley, MSRI), USA. >> >> *As part of Ph.D. training*, worked with several research laboratories and >> institutions across the world, and gave tutorials or demonstrated to both >> undergraduate and postgraduate students in the Department of Computer >> Science, University of York. Courses involved included: >> >> • Digital Circuit Design and Microcomputer Project >> >> • Gates to Boards, Introduction to Databases, and Systems Analysis & >> Design >> >> 1986-1987: * Lecturer, Eldoret Polytechnic, Kenya*. >> >> On first appointment, was seconded to the Kenya Polytechnic to teach >> Electronics in the Departments of Applied Science and Graphic Arts & Design. >> At the same time, was assigned to a project sponsored by the then European >> Economic Commission (EEC) and the Kenya Posts & Telecommunications (KP&TC) >> to gain industrial experience. At the time, the Research Unit of KP&TC was >> involved in an ambitious programme of manufacturing simple telecommunication >> equipments. His responsibility in particular, was to study electrical >> characteristics (and implications) when manufactured instruments were >> interfaced with the public phone grid. He was instrumental in the >> conceptualization and setting up of the Polytechnic' Computer Centre. >> >> 1986:* Part-time Lecturer, Kenya Polytechnic, Nairobi*. >> >> >> 1984:* Assistant Telecommunications Controller - Trainee*: Kenya Posts & >> Telecommunications Corporation. >> >> >> *LIST OF PUBLICATIONS [*Attached as Annex*]* >> >> >> *CONSULTANCY, PROJECTS, & NATIONAL/REGIONAL IT DEVELOPMENT* >> >> • As Chairman of CSK/Kenya Computer Institute (KCI) and KAACT, has >> initiated a number of institutional, national or regional projects (eg. >> procurement and redistribution of computing facilities, evolution of a >> national/regional networking strategy, organization of ICT symposia and >> seminars, lobbying for review of taxes on IT products, telecom services, >> etc). June 1990 - to date. >> >> >> • Provided various types of consultancy and support services to major >> groups in the finance and export promotion sectors including banks (e.g. >> the >> PTA Bank, and the Central Bank of Kenya), trade facilitation and >> promotion associations/groups (e.g. Kenya National Chamber of Commerce, >> Federation of Kenya Employers, the National Association of Kenyan Women >> in >> Business, Kenya Rural Enterprise Bank (K-REP), Confederation of Zimbabwe >> Industries (CZI), and the ILO small enterprise programme), and export >> promotion institutions (e,g, the Export Promotion Council, Export >> Promotion >> Zones Authority, and Kenya Industrial Estates). >> >> >> • Initiated the oldest *real-time* *full* Internet service in Kenya to >> date serving both the public and private sectors. Served clientele in >> nearly 20 African countries. >> >> >> • Was responsible for networking Kenya-based participants in the USAID >> funded TradeNet project which interlinked small to medium enterprises. >> >> >> • Participated in a number of regional (mainly African) and Third >> WorldIT-related committees (eg. IFIP WG 9.4, UNESCO RINAF project, >> etc), and >> various discussion groups whose prime objective was to promote the >> development and use of computer technology. Many of these discussions led >> to >> initiation of vital projects, eg. the RINAF (Regional Informatics Network >> for Africa) project, the Commonwealth Secretariat's COMNET-IT project, >> and >> the USAID-supported Kenyan Education Network (KENET). >> >> >> • Participated in *ad-hoc* consultancy engagements for/with Telecom >> Australia (now Telstra), British Telecom (BT), GEC Plessey Telecom (GPT), >> GEC Marconi and CSELT (Italy) - among other leading telecom/computer >> companies. 1989-1992. >> >> >> • Consulted for the International Research Development Centre (IDRC) and >> the British Council, Nairobi. Was Principal Consultant to the >> WorldHealth Organization's (WHO's) Health Learning Materials Network >> in Africa >> (HLMNet), and the International Republican Institute's (IRI's) African >> Democracy Network (ADN. >> >> *MEMBERSHIP OF ASSOCIATIONS & TECHNICAL COMMITTEES*: >> >> • Past Chairman of CSK, KAACT, Kenya Information Society (KIS – formerly >> Building Information Communities in Africa – BICA-Kenya), and the African >> Very Large Database Steering Committee. Corresponding member of ITU's >> CCITT >> Working Party X/3, member of the African Working Group on Research and >> Teaching in Computer Science, IFIP Working Group 9.4, and the Kenya >> UNESCO >> IIP Committee. >> >> >> • Member of the Institution of Electrical and Electronics Engineers >> (IEEE), the Institute of Electrical Engineers (IEE), and the British >> Computer Society (BCS). >> >> >> • Voted "Father of Internet" in Kenya by CSK in 2000. >> >> >> • Donned "Industry Pioneers' Award" by AfricaOnline in 2005. >> >> >> >> *HOBBIES* >> >> >> Internet browsing, reading, travelling, tennis, and fellowshipping. >> >> >> *REFEREES* >> >> >> >> 1. Prof. Robert JALANG'O-AKELLO >> >> Professor of Electrical Engineering, University of Nairobi >> >> P.O. Box 30197, Tel: +254-334244, NAIROBI, Kenya >> >> 1. Dr Ekwow SPIO-GARBRAH >> >> >> Chief Executive Officer, Commonwealth Telecommunication Organization >> (CTO) >> >> >> Clarville House, 26-27 Oxendon Street, London SW1Y 4EL >> >> >> United Kingdom, Email: *E.Spio-Garbrah(a)CTO.int* <E.Spio-Garbrah(a)CTO.int>, >> Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7930 5511 >> Fax:+44(0) 20 7930 4248. >> >> >> 1. Eng. John KIMBE >> >> >> Manager, Technology and Policy >> >> >> Southern Africa Telecommunication Association (SATA) >> >> >> P.O. Box 2677 >> >> >> MAPUTO, Mozambique, Email: >> *john.kimbe(a)sata-sec.net*<john.kimbe(a)sata-sec.net> >> >> Phone: +258 21 302 196, Cell No: +258 82 417 7100 >> >> 1. Prof. Jack CROWELL >> >> >> Professor of Mathematics & Computer Science & Co-ordinator of Kenya Rural >> Schools >> >> >> Computer Project, Delta College, Michigan, USA, Email: * >> jlcrowel(a)delta.edu* <jlcrowel(a)delta.edu> >> >> >> >> >> * ANNEX:** **PUBLICATIONS – DR SHEM J. OCHUODHO* >> >> *REFEREED JOURNALS, REPORTS AND BOOKS* >> >> • "Report on Proposed Institutional and Strategic Framework to >> Facilitate Accelerated Planning, Design, Development, Operation and >> Management of a Broadband ICT/Telecommunication Infrastructure in East >> Africa", *Study Conducted for the International Telecommunication Union >> (ITU) Africa Office and the East African Community (EAC)*, January 2007. >> >> >> • "A National Orchestra: the Many Songs and Strands in National ICT >> Policy Making in Kenya", in *At the Cross-Roads: ICT Policy Making in >> East Africa*, pp. 68-83, East African Educational Publishers, Nairobi >> (2005), ed. F. Etta & L. Elder, International Development Research Centre >> (IDRC). >> >> >> • With J. Baraza and F. Josiah, "Report on SADC Regional Information >> Infrastructure Feasibility Study: Intelligent Nodes for SADC Countries >> and >> Transmission Networks for Angola and DRC", *Study Conducted for the >> International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Africa Office and the >> Southern >> African Telecom Association (SATA)*, May 2005. >> >> >> • "An Overview of PVC-M", *Information and Software Technology*, >> 34(*6*), >> pp. 1-8, Butterworth Heinneman (June 1992). Also appeared in *Collected >> Papers in Databases*, ed. D.G. Bridge, York Technical Report YCS 170, >> January 1992. >> >> >> • "XDL: The Process Modelling Language of PVC-M", in *Proceedings of the >> IEEE International Conference on Computer Systems and Software >> Engineering >> *, eds. P. DeWilde and J. Vandewalle, pp. 648-653, IEEE Computer Society >> Press (May 1992). >> >> >> • "Object-Oriented Database Support for Software Project Management >> Environments - Data Modelling Issues", *Information and Software >> Technology*, 34(*5*), pp. 1-25, Butterworth Heinneman (May 1992). Also >> appeared as *York Technical Report YCS 165*, ed. I.C. Wand, 1991. >> >> >> • "An Object-Oriented Approach to Configuration Management", *IEE >> Colloquium on Formal Methods and Notations Applicable to >> Telecommunications >> *, pp. 7/1-7/4, IEE Electronics Division (March 1992). >> >> >> • With A.W. Brown, "XDL: An Object-Oriented Extension to SDL", in >> *SDL'91: Evolving Methods >> *, eds. O. Faergemand and R. Reed, North Holland, pp. 35-47 (1991). >> >> >> • With A.W. Brown, "A Process-Oriented Version and Configuration >> Management Model for Communications Software", in *Proceedings of the 3rd >> International Workshop on Software Configuration Management*, ed. P. >> Feiler, ACM Press, pp. 109-120 (1991). >> >> >> • "An Object-Oriented Approach to Version Management", in *Proceedings >> of the 4th DLSU Computer Conference*, ed. J.E. Dayao, Philippines, Manila >> (1991). >> >> >> • With P. Mwaniki and G. Karanja, "A National Networking Strategy for >> Kenya and the Role of the Kenya Computer Institute", in *Electronic >> Networking in Africa: Advancing Science and Technology for Development*, >> eds. A. Tindimubona and A.A. Wilson, pp. 87-95, AAAS (1992). Original >> manuscript presented at the African Academy of Sciences (AAS)/American >> Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) *Workshop on Science >> and Technology Communication Networks in Africa*, Nairobi, Kenya, August >> 1992. >> >> >> • With J. Ochuodho, "AISY: An Integrated AIDS Information System", in >> Pre-Proceedings of the *First International Working Conference on Health >> Informatics in Africa, HELINA'93*, pp. 47-54, eds. S. Mandil and M. >> Korpela, WHO/IMIA (April 1993). >> >> >> • "Electronic Networking and Delivery of Health Service: the Kenyan >> Experience", in *Proceedings of the First International Working >> Conference on Health Informatics in Africa*, 19-23 April 1993, Ile-Ife, >> Nigeria. Eds. M. Korpela and S.H. Mandil. >> >> >> • With I.C. Ezigbalike, "Developing Countries IT Research and >> Development: The Training They'd Rather Do Without", in *Proceedings of >> the IFIP International Conference on Social Implications of Computers in >> Developing Countries*, eds. S.C. Bhatnagar and M. Odedra, Tata >> McGraw-Hill (1994). >> >> >> • With J. Ochuodho, J. Elkin and S. Ojoo, "WHO for AIDS Come the Year >> 2000?", in *Proceedings of the IFIP International Conference on Social >> Implications of Computers in Developing Countries*, eds. S.C. Bhatnagar >> and M. Odedra, Tata McGraw-Hill (1994). >> >> >> • "A Configuration Management Model for Communications Software", >> *Journal of Systems Integration (JOSI) >> *, Kluwer Academic Publishers (USA). (1998). >> >> >> • "Object-Oriented Database Support for Software Project Support >> Environments: Process Modelling Issues", *Information and Software >> Technology*, Butterworth Heinneman. (1998). >> >> >> • "A Database Perspective to SDL", *Kenya Journal of Science and >> Technology*, Kenya National Academy of Sciences. (1998). >> >> >> • With I.C. Ezigbalike, "Email for Developing Countries: What They Never >> Tell You About IT", in *Truly Global Communication*, ed. L. Press, >> Academic Press (1995). Also presented at AITEC-South Conference, Harare, >> Zimbabwe, November 1991. >> >> >> • "The Status of National Electronic Networking in Kenya", in * >> Informatica*, eds. S.J. Ochuodho & J. Kithinji, Kenya Computer Institute >> (KCI 1995). Also presented at a KCI National Networking Seminar, Nairobi, >> September 1992. >> >> >> • "Database Support for IPSEs", *Kenya Journal of Science and Technology >> *, Kenya National Academy of Sciences. (1998). >> >> >> *OTHER PUBLICATIONS*: >> >> • "A Process-Oriented Approach to Configuration Management for >> Communications Software", *Ph.D. Thesis*, University of York (March >> 1992). >> >> >> • With D.J. Lumby (British Telecom), "Configuration Management in UXD5B: >> PVC-M on Trial", *Technical Report YCS 166*, ed. I.C. Wand, Department of >> Computer Science, University of York (November 1991). >> >> >> • With A.W. Brown, "Process Modelling in PVC-M: An Object-Oriented >> Approach", * Technical Report YCS 157*, ed. I.C. Wand, Department of >> Computer Science, University of York (August 1991). >> >> >> • "KCI-Int'l: Kenyans Committed to the Advancement of Computer >> Technology in the Region", Presented at a *KCI National Seminar*, >> Nairobi, Kenya (September 1992). >> >> >> • *Email Demystified: Low-Cost Networking with FrontDoor*, African >> Regional Centre for Computing/American Academy for the Advancement of >> Sciences (AAAS 1995). >> >> >> • With W. Okello-Odongo, "Empowering the Serious Kenyan >> Physicist", *Proceedings of the Kenya National Association of >> Physicists (KNAP) Annual >> Regional Conference*, October 1992, Nairobi, Kenya (1995). >> >> >> • "An Electronic Telephone Monitoring Unit", *M.Sc. Thesis*, Department >> of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, University of Nairobi (1987). >> >> >> • "Trends in Telematics and Prospects for Africa", Lead article at >> the *UNESCO-ROSTA High-Level Meeting of Informatics Experts in Africa >> *, Nairobi, Kenya (July 1993). >> >> >> On Fri, May 29, 2009 at 9:06 AM, Theus Owicho <owichot(a)gmail.com> wrote: >> >> >>> I wish to nominate Shem Ochuodho >>> >>> On Fri, May 29, 2009 at 8:26 AM, Walubengo J <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> wrote: >>> >>> >>>> I would support Brian's nomination but hasten to add one Michuki Mwangi - >>>> the founding technical manager for KENIC, KIXP and probably others we do >>>> not know about. >>>> >>>> But I think the technical group (skunkworks) would be better placed to >>>> nominate. >>>> >>>> walu. >>>> >>>> --- On Thu, 5/28/09, Eric M.K Osiakwan <emko(a)internetresearch.com.gh> >>>> wrote: >>>> >>>> >>>>> From: Eric M.K Osiakwan <emko(a)internetresearch.com.gh> >>>>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Fw: [ISOC] Nominations for 2009 Jonathan B. >>>>> >>>> Postel Service Award Due by29 May >>>> >>>>> To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com >>>>> Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >>>>> Date: Thursday, May 28, 2009, 7:13 PM >>>>> I think Brian's >>>>> technical work on the continent over the years, could merit >>>>> a submission...... >>>>> Eric here >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> On 28 May 2009, at 08:26, alice munyua >>>>> wrote: >>>>> >>>>> No. unfortunately. They need techies....:) >>>>> Best >>>>> Alice >>>>> From: Kamotho Njenga >>>>> Date: Thu, 28 May 2009 11:02:01 +0300 >>>>> To: <alice(a)apc.org> >>>>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Fw: [ISOC] Nominations for >>>>> 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award Due by29 May >>>>> >>>>> Alice,Might >>>>> you be the eligible >>>>> Kenyan? Kamotho >>>>> >>>>> On 5/28/09, alice munyua <alice(a)apc.org> >>>>> wrote:Dear all >>>>> I m sure we have Kenyans who would bag this award. >>>>> >>>>> Best >>>>> Alice >>>>> ------Original Message------ >>>>> From: Greg Wood >>>>> Sender: isoc-members-announce-bounces(a)elists.isoc.org >>>>> To: isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org >>>>> Subject: [ISOC] Nominations for 2009 Jonathan B. Postel >>>>> Service Award Due by29 May >>>>> Sent: May 27, 2009 11:35 PM >>>>> >>>>> Dear Colleagues, >>>>> >>>>> Nominations for the 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award >>>>> are due by >>>>> 29 May. The Internet Society presents this annual award to >>>>> an >>>>> individual or an organization that has made outstanding >>>>> contributions >>>>> in service to the data communications community. This year >>>>> the award >>>>> will be presented during the 75th Internet Engineering Task >>>>> Force >>>>> (IETF) meeting in Stockholm, Sweden, 26-31 July. The award >>>>> includes a >>>>> presentation crystal and a prize of USD20,000. >>>>> >>>>> The award recognizes sustained and substantial technical >>>>> contributions, service to the community, and leadership. >>>>> With respect >>>>> to leadership, the nominations committee places particular >>>>> emphasis on >>>>> candidates who have supported and enabled others in >>>>> addition to their >>>>> own specific actions. >>>>> >>>>> More information about the award, the nomination procedure, >>>>> and about >>>>> Jon Postel's life and contributions is available at: >>>>> >>>>> http://www.isoc.org/postel/ >>>>> >>>>> -- >>>>> Greg Wood >>>>> Internet Society >>>>> http://www.isoc.org >>>>> >>>>> office: +1-703-439-2145 >>>>> mobile: +1-703-625-3917 >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> Isoc-members-announce mailing list >>>>> Isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org >>>>> http://elists.isoc.org/mailman/listinfo/isoc-members-announce >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> 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.… >>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> kictanet mailing list >>>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >>>>> >>>>> This message was sent to: emko(a)internetresearch.com.gh >>>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >>>>> >>>>> >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emko%40internetresearc… >>>> >>>>> Eric >>>>> M.K OsiakwanDirector Internet >>>>> Researchwww.internetresearch.com.ghemko(a)internetresearch.com.gh42 >>>>> Ring Road Central, Accra-NorthTel: +233.21.258800 >>>>> ext 7031Fax: +233.21.258811Cell: >>>>> +233.24.4386792 >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> >>>>> -----Inline Attachment Follows----- >>>>> >>>>> _______________________________________________ >>>>> kictanet mailing list >>>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >>>>> >>>>> This message was sent to: jwalu(a)yahoo.com >>>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >>>>> >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com >>>> >>>> >>>> _______________________________________________ >>>> Skunkworks mailing list >>>> Skunkworks(a)lists.my.co.ke >>>> http://lists.my.co.ke/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/skunkworks >>>> Other services @ http://my.co.ke >>>> Other lists >>>> ------------- >>>> Skunkworks announce: >>>> http://lists.my.co.ke/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/skunkworks-announce >>>> Science - http://lists.my.co.ke/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/science >>>> kazi - http://lists.my.co.ke/cgi-bin/mailman/admin/kazi/general >>>> >>>> >>> > > >

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Courses of interest
by Preston Odera 04 Jun '09

04 Jun '09

Some courses which could be of interest Preston Odera Tel +254 20 608316 Tel +254 20 3544352 Cell +254 722 771 478 Email; info(a)k-90ea.com

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(no subject)
by Preston Odera 04 Jun '09

04 Jun '09

You might have missed the enclosed. Preston Odera Tel +254 20 608316 Tel +254 20 3544352

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions, Legal and Regulatory Frameworks
by Walubengo J 03 Jun '09

03 Jun '09

mmhh, too quiet i think, this 2nd day at school ;-) What happened to the Wakaremas, Nesbitts, Richard Mwangis, Peres Weres, Alex Gs, et al? Its hard to believe they have nothing to say on BPO...or maybe they have outsourced their minds? ;-) Lets share for the benefit of the industry. There are no right or wrong answers to these questions and people should feel free to state their personal opinion without fear or favor. walu. --- On Wed, 6/3/09, Catherine Adeya <elizaslider(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > From: Catherine Adeya <elizaslider(a)yahoo.com> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions, Legal and Regulatory Frameworks > To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Date: Wednesday, June 3, 2009, 3:50 PM > And I will reply to myself > and add that is there something in our institutional > framework that needs to be addressed or have we got it > right? If we have then what are we doing wrong? > > Nyaki > > From: > Catherine Adeya <elizaslider(a)yahoo.com> > To: > elizaslider(a)yahoo.com > Cc: KICTAnet > ICT Policy Discussions > <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Sent: > Wednesday, June 3, 2009 2:39:11 PM > Subject: Re: > [kictanet] Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions, Legal and > Regulatory Frameworks > > > Muriuki et. al., > > This is very useful information and kindly share the > multi-country study you discuss below; I emphasize the > importance of collating these studies with a common goal in > mind . One important issue you raise (and this was confirmed > by the BPO research team while in the UK) is literally based > on 'Field of Dreams'....that is "...if you > build it they will come". The confidence that we show > in our local BPO sector will boost the confidence of the > potential foreign investors. The reasons why some of the key > players prefer to operate their own contact sectors vary and > some are credible. And this takes me back to the question > Walu has raised that with the submarine cables landing soon > and given the many developments in the legal/regulatory > frameworks; why is Kenya not experiencing the > anticipated boom in the BPO sector? Did we miss something > along the way especially within our regulatory framework, is > it something we can pull back or work on quite quickly as > the other potential BPO desitinations like Egypt, Mauritius > and SA are not waiting for us to get it right. And then > what should we do to get local and foreign investors > to show more confidence in the BPO industry? > > My sixpence worth! > > Nyaki > > From: > muriuki mureithi <mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke> > To: > elizaslider(a)yahoo.com > Cc: KICTAnet > ICT Policy Discussions > <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Sent: Wednesday, June > 3, 2009 8:50:25 AM > Subject: Re: > [kictanet] Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions, Legal and > Regulatory Frameworks > > > Thanks Walu for the early morning call > > Q4 - yes , one of the key markets we are targeting i.e. UK > is a party to the > European wide data protection arrangement. This > arrangement has stringent > requirements for cross border data exchange and > particularly to members > who are not party to that arrangement. Kenyan law on data > protection as you > rightly state is non-existent. > > Certainly the fact the key players in the market prefer to > operate their own > contact centres apart from the daring example of Telkom > Kenya is a damning > reminder that we have to do a lot of work to convince > ourselves first before > we go out and convince others that we can handle > their sensitive data. > In a multi-country study we did for university of the > Maryland; The bpo > phenomena in Kenya: Emerging flagship to drive ICT > development -A case study > in 2007, the legal framework need to address > a > number of issues notably > - data protection, indemnity for operators , bonding > framework for staff - > the police conduct certification is only good for matatus > not high end > confidential bpo work , incentive framework eg use of > epza , fiscal etc > > With the legal loop holes the study found that some Kenya > bpo were forced to > register an operation in the target market such that, that > operation was > contractually responsible for the projects being done in > Kenya. This immense > can be overcome by an improved legal framework. > > Now is an opportunity we should not lose to build a > supporting legal > framework for bpo > > Cheers > MM > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.k > e] On Behalf Of Walubengo J > Sent: 03 June 2009 08:05 > To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: [kictanet] Day 2 of 10:-BPO discussions,Legal and > Regulatory > Frameworks > > > Morning all, > > Yesterday was like my 1st day in school - what a rich > learning experience! > Thanx to Waema, Nyaki, Barrack, Otuoma, and MM whose > contributions were > quite enlightening. Of the two questions asked, it appears > that we need > both > comprehensive ICT and BPO Policies and Strategies. > With regard to National > BPO strategies and targets we learnt that there was quite > some detail at the > Ministry of Planning and the BPO Society which > could benefit members if made > widely accessible. > > Today we move from the Policy to the Legal, Regulatory > Frameworks. The > Research study found very comprehensive Legal and > Regulatory environment in > S.Africa, India and Mauritius that supported their BPO > industry. > Specifically, laws that took care of eTransactions, eCrime, > Copyrights and > Data Protection were well established. Furthermore their > BPO Industries had > adopted stringent Quality Assurance Frameworks for BPO and > Contact Center > Operations. > > The Researchers found that the case for Kenya was > relatively comparable - > with the recently enacted KCA Act (2009) that deals with > eCrime & > eTransactions leading the way, others like the Copyright > Act (2001) as well > as the Freedom of Information Bill cuurently at an advanced > stage providing > an encouraging Legal/Regulatory environment. > > Which brings us to the following two questions: > > Q3: With > submarine cables landing next week and given the above > legal/regulatory frameworks, how comes Kenya is NOT > experiencing the > anticipated boom in the BPO sector? What should we do to > get local and > foreign investors to show more confidence in the BPO > industry? > > Q4: Could there be gaps in our Legal, Regulatory and > Institutional > frameworks that need to be addresssed? > > Put in black and white- Why hasn't Safaricom, Orange, > Zain and several local > Banks who have all opened their own very large Call-Centers > NOT shown > confidence in the BPO sector by outsourcing their > operations to local BPO > operators? What of the Government itself? Why cant it > outsource non-core > functions to the local BPO operators before trying attract > foreign investors > to do the same? > > The floor is open, we have only today to get > comments/answers to these > issues. > > walu. > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/mureithi%40summitstrate > gies.co.ke > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: elizaslider(a)yahoo.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/elizaslider%40yahoo.com > > > > > > > > -----Inline Attachment Follows----- > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com >

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Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework
by Walubengo J 03 Jun '09

03 Jun '09

MM, Thanx for your insights - you seem to have re-surfaced with enhanced wisdom after some self-imposed silence ;-). I am however unable to place my hands on the document from Ministry of Planning that u say details the BPO sector/strategy. The one I could get @ http://www.communication.go.ke/media.asp?id=611 seems to be a shallow on BPO. Also you cite BPO studies you did for UNCTAD - Plse share the urls if possible. In the same spirit, I seem to recall that a while back the Kenya BPO Society launched a - was it a BPO Policy or Strategy. Someone should give us the url to such a document. In addition, it would be nice to know to what extend this Policy/Strategy was (not?) adopted by the GoK. Plse share your ideas since we have less than half-a-day to the close of this theme. regards, walu. --- On Tue, 6/2/09, Catherine Adeya <elizaslider(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > From: Catherine Adeya <elizaslider(a)yahoo.com> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework > To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2009, 2:19 PM > Muriuki, > > Your input is interesting and you touch on a number of > areas that even go beyond policy. I think the key in a study > like the one the UON has undertaken is that the selection of > the countries may not be comprehensive mostly (I believe) > due to funding constraints but they do give a solid basis to > inform policy in Kenya. As I have noted on this forum > before, there are a number of studies that have been > undertaken (most are not in the public domain) and it is > time we geared their findings in a common direction for > Kenya's sake. Therefore, some of the studies you mention > below (and maybe others may mention) would be useful > especially if the findings/issues are collapsed into the > relevant themes. However, your analysis is useful. > > Best, > > Nyaki > > From: > muriuki mureithi <mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke> > To: > elizaslider(a)yahoo.com > Cc: KICTAnet > ICT Policy Discussions > <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Sent: > Tuesday, June 2, 2009 12:11:57 PM > Subject: Re: > [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework > > > Thanks Tim for the context, it is now feasible to > participate > > Walu you may want to revisit your structure of the > discussions to ensure > that your structure maps to the objectives of the > study. A very interesting > topic - BPO marketing strategy is not in your discussion > structure and is > key to success of BPO. This is one of the study > objectives > > On the questions raised by the moderator and especially Q2 > - a more detailed > document published by ministry of planning - Kenya > Vision 2030, A Globally > Competitive and Prosperous Kenya published 2007 is > very detailed on bpo. It > gives a detailed background on bpo, the opportunities and a > strategy to > exploit the opportunities. The Document further > develop an approach , the > target markets and the strategy with timelines that > can be monitored. One > would expect that operational details would be worked out > by the KICTB > which I > believe was the intent of v2030 > > On the broader aspect of the question, it is necessary for > the country to > have a specific policy on BPO. A desk study we did > last year for > International trade centre of UNCTAD - BPO/ITO > activity in Sub Sahara > Africa:Lessons from BPO/ITOs activity in selected > (13) English speaking > countries in Africa - noted the > advantage of a policy that is BPO > specific . The need for a policy is in cognisance that > a wide array of > multisectoral resources need to be deployed to ensure > success of the sector. > That policy helps to bring together and coordinate those > resources and > create synergy. Nigeria for example developed > and promulgated a BPO > specific policy. The policy explicitly recognizes the > opportunity presented > by the sector but also notes the challenge the > sector faces to exploit > the opportunity, defines the > role of the stakeholders and the contribution , > incentives to realize the benefits. It also sets out the > time frame but most > importantly the market strategy. > > In the policy development, the strategy to > exploit is critical. It is > inadequate to stress the huge size of the market and > focus of that > market(off-shoring) without addressing our capacity > to exploit the market > considering the global competition. We can learn from > some of the > successful competitors like South Africa who built > offshoring bpo on the > back of inshoring . likewise, Nigeria policy strategy > is based on local > outsourcing first. Clearly, It is much cheaper to build > local outsourcing > capacity and then use this capacity and skill base to > exploit offshoring > > In developing such a policy we should not lose sight of the > fact that bpo > is not an end in itself but a means to fully exploit the > immense > benefits of > ICTs > > Cheers > MM > > -----Original Message----- > From: Prof Waema [mailto:[email protected]] > > Sent: 02 June 2009 10:56 > To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke > Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' > Subject: RE: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, > Policy Framework > > Hi Muriuki, > > Thank you for the comments. There is no complete report at > the moment but it > is under preparation. The idea is to share the results so > far and discuss > salient issues before we have a stakeholders workshop later > on this month. > However, find below some background info: > > The overall aim of the project was “to undertake > comprehensive research in > the business process outsourcing (BPO) sub-sector in > pioneer, emerging and > mature > markets to provide evidence and a deeper understanding of > the > imperatives for success in this industry to better inform > Kenya’s policy > decisions and investment choices”. The specific > objectives were: >  To provide empirical evidence and > recommendations to inform the > development of BPO legislation, policy and strategy >  To identify the critical success > factors that underlie the BPO > industry in developing countries (in pioneer, emerging and > mature markets) >  To examine and provide comprehensive > case studies of eight countries > representing pioneer, emerging and mature BPO markets >  To analyse the business > environment/culture in Kenya in order to > identify a unique BPO marketing strategy. >  To provide a deeper understanding of > youth employment and gender > issues within the BPO sector in pioneer, emerging and > mature > markets >  To increase the level of awareness > and input among key stakeholders > through interactive dialogue on key BPO issues within the > Kenyan context >  To contribute to knowledge in this > emerging sector through > publication and dissemination. > > The project was carried out using the case study method and > involved desk > research on the Internet and in libraries, review of > existing documents, key > informant interviews and structured questionnaires. The > case study involved > BPO firms and relevant national institutions in six > countries classified as > follows: >  BPO clients: U.S.A. and U.K. >  Pioneer BPO services: Kenya >  Emerging BPO services: South Africa >  Mature BPO Services: India and > Mauritius > > The project is funded by IDRC and the University of > Nairobi. It was carried > out by the > University of Nairobi in collaboration with the Ministry > of > Information and Communications, the Kenya BPO and Contact > Centre Society, > the Kenya ICT Board and KICTANET. > > I am sure you can commend on the policy framework without a > full report. > > Regards > > Tim Waema > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+waema=uonbi.ac.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:[email protected]] > On Behalf > Of muriuki mureithi > Sent: 02 June 2009 08:47 AM > To: waema(a)uonbi.ac.ke > Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, > Policy Framework > > Hi Walu > > Thanks for madaraka day gift - a bpo. > > To provide a context of the discussion, could we access > the full report. > This will help us to understand some aspects for example > the TOR/objective > for the study, how the three economies were selected and > the time frame of > the study among other issues. > There are some other economies that have promulgated some > BPO specific > policies and innovative approach to BPO development. A > deeper insight on the > context will help us to see how to introduce such > thoughts in the > discussions > > Cheers > muriuki mureithi > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.k > e] On Behalf Of Walubengo J > Sent: 02 June 2009 08:14 > To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy > Framework > > Morning all, > > I trust you have had a well-deserved, long weekend. Today > we kick-off the > BPO discussion by focusing on the BPO Policy > environment. Indeed Policy > informs both the Legal, Regulatory and Insititutional > frameworks such that > if we get things wrong at the Policy level, then naturally, > the rest of the > frameworks will not fly. > > The BPO Research (synthesis attached) established very > comprehensive Policy > frameworks in the selected countries of study - S.Africa, > Mauritius and > India. When > compared to the Kenyan situation, the Researchers found > that at > a National level, BPO is simply listed as one of the six > KEY sectors of the > Economic Pillar within Vision2030. They also found > that the National ICT > Policy (2006) does not explicitly mention BPO - even though > some of the > objectives may implicitly relate to BPO. > > Which brings us to the specific questions for discussion: > Q1: Should we at a National level be placing emphasise on > an "ICT Sector" or > on a "BPO Sector"? which of the two should be a > subset of the other? > Q2: Beyond the BPO policy statements in our V2030 document, > dont we need to > do more by creating clear and monitorable plans/targets for > the BPO sector - > BPO Strategic Framework? How should this be done? > > We have only today for your views on this since tmrw we > move into the Legal > and Regulatory frameworks. > > walu. > Encl: BPO Research Synthesis1:-Policy, Legal, Regulatory > Frameworks > > ----e-Discussion Program outline----- > 1.The policy, legal and institutional frameworks for BPO > sector (2days, Walu > moderating) > 2.Subsidies accorded to BPO sector (2days, Walu > moderating) > 3.Human capacity issues (2days, Walu moderating) > 4.Youth and gender issues (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating) > 5.Strengths and challenges for Kenya as a BPO destination > (2days, Dr. C. > Adeya moderating > > > > > > ----------------------------------------- > This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous > content by > MailScanner, > and is believed to be clean. > > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI IS ISO CERTIFIED > > The University of Nairobi is committed to providing quality > services to all > its clients. The University will monitor and review its > quality performance > from time to time through an effective implementation of > the Quality > Management > System based on ISO 9001:2000 standard. > > University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > > > > > ----------------------------------------- > This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous > content by > MailScanner, > and is believed to be clean. > > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI IS ISO CERTIFIED > > The University of Nairobi is committed to providing quality > services to all > its clients. The University will monitor and review its > quality performance > from time to time through an effective implementation of > the Quality > Management System based on ISO 9001:2000 standard. > > University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > > > > > -----Inline Attachment Follows----- > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com >

3 2

Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework
by muriuki mureithi 02 Jun '09

02 Jun '09

Thanks Tim for the context, it is now feasible to participate Walu you may want to revisit your structure of the discussions to ensure that your structure maps to the objectives of the study. A very interesting topic - BPO marketing strategy is not in your discussion structure and is key to success of BPO. This is one of the study objectives On the questions raised by the moderator and especially Q2 - a more detailed document published by ministry of planning - Kenya Vision 2030, A Globally Competitive and Prosperous Kenya published 2007 is very detailed on bpo. It gives a detailed background on bpo, the opportunities and a strategy to exploit the opportunities. The Document further develop an approach , the target markets and the strategy with timelines that can be monitored. One would expect that operational details would be worked out by the KICTB which I believe was the intent of v2030 On the broader aspect of the question, it is necessary for the country to have a specific policy on BPO. A desk study we did last year for International trade centre of UNCTAD - BPO/ITO activity in Sub Sahara Africa:Lessons from BPO/ITOs activity in selected (13) English speaking countries in Africa - noted the advantage of a policy that is BPO specific . The need for a policy is in cognisance that a wide array of multisectoral resources need to be deployed to ensure success of the sector. That policy helps to bring together and coordinate those resources and create synergy. Nigeria for example developed and promulgated a BPO specific policy. The policy explicitly recognizes the opportunity presented by the sector but also notes the challenge the sector faces to exploit the opportunity, defines the role of the stakeholders and the contribution , incentives to realize the benefits. It also sets out the time frame but most importantly the market strategy. In the policy development, the strategy to exploit is critical. It is inadequate to stress the huge size of the market and focus of that market(off-shoring) without addressing our capacity to exploit the market considering the global competition. We can learn from some of the successful competitors like South Africa who built offshoring bpo on the back of inshoring . likewise, Nigeria policy strategy is based on local outsourcing first. Clearly, It is much cheaper to build local outsourcing capacity and then use this capacity and skill base to exploit offshoring In developing such a policy we should not lose sight of the fact that bpo is not an end in itself but a means to fully exploit the immense benefits of ICTs Cheers MM -----Original Message----- From: Prof Waema [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 02 June 2009 10:56 To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' Subject: RE: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework Hi Muriuki, Thank you for the comments. There is no complete report at the moment but it is under preparation. The idea is to share the results so far and discuss salient issues before we have a stakeholders workshop later on this month. However, find below some background info: The overall aim of the project was “to undertake comprehensive research in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sub-sector in pioneer, emerging and mature markets to provide evidence and a deeper understanding of the imperatives for success in this industry to better inform Kenya’s policy decisions and investment choices”. The specific objectives were:  To provide empirical evidence and recommendations to inform the development of BPO legislation, policy and strategy  To identify the critical success factors that underlie the BPO industry in developing countries (in pioneer, emerging and mature markets)  To examine and provide comprehensive case studies of eight countries representing pioneer, emerging and mature BPO markets  To analyse the business environment/culture in Kenya in order to identify a unique BPO marketing strategy.  To provide a deeper understanding of youth employment and gender issues within the BPO sector in pioneer, emerging and mature markets  To increase the level of awareness and input among key stakeholders through interactive dialogue on key BPO issues within the Kenyan context  To contribute to knowledge in this emerging sector through publication and dissemination. The project was carried out using the case study method and involved desk research on the Internet and in libraries, review of existing documents, key informant interviews and structured questionnaires. The case study involved BPO firms and relevant national institutions in six countries classified as follows:  BPO clients: U.S.A. and U.K.  Pioneer BPO services: Kenya  Emerging BPO services: South Africa  Mature BPO Services: India and Mauritius The project is funded by IDRC and the University of Nairobi. It was carried out by the University of Nairobi in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Communications, the Kenya BPO and Contact Centre Society, the Kenya ICT Board and KICTANET. I am sure you can commend on the policy framework without a full report. Regards Tim Waema -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+waema=uonbi.ac.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:[email protected]] On Behalf Of muriuki mureithi Sent: 02 June 2009 08:47 AM To: waema(a)uonbi.ac.ke Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' Subject: Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework Hi Walu Thanks for madaraka day gift - a bpo. To provide a context of the discussion, could we access the full report. This will help us to understand some aspects for example the TOR/objective for the study, how the three economies were selected and the time frame of the study among other issues. There are some other economies that have promulgated some BPO specific policies and innovative approach to BPO development. A deeper insight on the context will help us to see how to introduce such thoughts in the discussions Cheers muriuki mureithi -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.k e] On Behalf Of Walubengo J Sent: 02 June 2009 08:14 To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework Morning all, I trust you have had a well-deserved, long weekend. Today we kick-off the BPO discussion by focusing on the BPO Policy environment. Indeed Policy informs both the Legal, Regulatory and Insititutional frameworks such that if we get things wrong at the Policy level, then naturally, the rest of the frameworks will not fly. The BPO Research (synthesis attached) established very comprehensive Policy frameworks in the selected countries of study - S.Africa, Mauritius and India. When compared to the Kenyan situation, the Researchers found that at a National level, BPO is simply listed as one of the six KEY sectors of the Economic Pillar within Vision2030. They also found that the National ICT Policy (2006) does not explicitly mention BPO - even though some of the objectives may implicitly relate to BPO. Which brings us to the specific questions for discussion: Q1: Should we at a National level be placing emphasise on an "ICT Sector" or on a "BPO Sector"? which of the two should be a subset of the other? Q2: Beyond the BPO policy statements in our V2030 document, dont we need to do more by creating clear and monitorable plans/targets for the BPO sector - BPO Strategic Framework? How should this be done? We have only today for your views on this since tmrw we move into the Legal and Regulatory frameworks. walu. Encl: BPO Research Synthesis1:-Policy, Legal, Regulatory Frameworks ----e-Discussion Program outline----- 1.The policy, legal and institutional frameworks for BPO sector (2days, Walu moderating) 2.Subsidies accorded to BPO sector (2days, Walu moderating) 3.Human capacity issues (2days, Walu moderating) 4.Youth and gender issues (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating) 5.Strengths and challenges for Kenya as a BPO destination (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating ----------------------------------------- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI IS ISO CERTIFIED The University of Nairobi is committed to providing quality services to all its clients. The University will monitor and review its quality performance from time to time through an effective implementation of the Quality Management System based on ISO 9001:2000 standard. University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ----------------------------------------- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI IS ISO CERTIFIED The University of Nairobi is committed to providing quality services to all its clients. The University will monitor and review its quality performance from time to time through an effective implementation of the Quality Management System based on ISO 9001:2000 standard. University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

2 3

Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework
by muriuki mureithi 02 Jun '09

02 Jun '09

Wow I like the part about the wisdom I forgot the url of the document . I have attached it hoping I am not going against the list rules if any on document attachments Happy reading MM -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.k e] On Behalf Of Walubengo J Sent: 02 June 2009 14:10 To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework MM, Thanx for your insights - you seem to have re-surfaced with enhanced wisdom after some self-imposed silence ;-). I am however unable to place my hands on the document from Ministry of Planning that u say details the BPO sector/strategy. The one I could get @ http://www.communication.go.ke/media.asp?id=611 seems to be a shallow on BPO. Also you cite BPO studies you did for UNCTAD - Plse share the urls if possible. In the same spirit, I seem to recall that a while back the Kenya BPO Society launched a - was it a BPO Policy or Strategy. Someone should give us the url to such a document. In addition, it would be nice to know to what extend this Policy/Strategy was (not?) adopted by the GoK. Plse share your ideas since we have less than half-a-day to the close of this theme. regards, walu. --- On Tue, 6/2/09, Catherine Adeya <elizaslider(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > From: Catherine Adeya <elizaslider(a)yahoo.com> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework > To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2009, 2:19 PM > Muriuki, > > Your input is interesting and you touch on a number of > areas that even go beyond policy. I think the key in a study > like the one the UON has undertaken is that the selection of > the countries may not be comprehensive mostly (I believe) > due to funding constraints but they do give a solid basis to > inform policy in Kenya. As I have noted on this forum > before, there are a number of studies that have been > undertaken (most are not in the public domain) and it is > time we geared their findings in a common direction for > Kenya's sake. Therefore, some of the studies you mention > below (and maybe others may mention) would be useful > especially if the findings/issues are collapsed into the > relevant themes. However, your analysis is useful. > > Best, > > Nyaki > > From: > muriuki mureithi <mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke> > To: > elizaslider(a)yahoo.com > Cc: KICTAnet > ICT Policy Discussions > <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Sent: > Tuesday, June 2, 2009 12:11:57 PM > Subject: Re: > [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework > > > Thanks Tim for the context, it is now feasible to > participate > > Walu you may want to revisit your structure of the > discussions to ensure > that your structure maps to the objectives of the > study. A very interesting > topic - BPO marketing strategy is not in your discussion > structure and is > key to success of BPO. This is one of the study > objectives > > On the questions raised by the moderator and especially Q2 > - a more detailed > document published by ministry of planning - Kenya > Vision 2030, A Globally > Competitive and Prosperous Kenya published 2007 is > very detailed on bpo. It > gives a detailed background on bpo, the opportunities and a > strategy to > exploit the opportunities. The Document further > develop an approach , the > target markets and the strategy with timelines that > can be monitored. One > would expect that operational details would be worked out > by the KICTB > which I > believe was the intent of v2030 > > On the broader aspect of the question, it is necessary for > the country to > have a specific policy on BPO. A desk study we did > last year for > International trade centre of UNCTAD - BPO/ITO > activity in Sub Sahara > Africa:Lessons from BPO/ITOs activity in selected > (13) English speaking > countries in Africa - noted the > advantage of a policy that is BPO > specific . The need for a policy is in cognisance that > a wide array of > multisectoral resources need to be deployed to ensure > success of the sector. > That policy helps to bring together and coordinate those > resources and > create synergy. Nigeria for example developed > and promulgated a BPO > specific policy. The policy explicitly recognizes the > opportunity presented > by the sector but also notes the challenge the > sector faces to exploit > the opportunity, defines the > role of the stakeholders and the contribution , > incentives to realize the benefits. It also sets out the > time frame but most > importantly the market strategy. > > In the policy development, the strategy to > exploit is critical. It is > inadequate to stress the huge size of the market and > focus of that > market(off-shoring) without addressing our capacity > to exploit the market > considering the global competition. We can learn from > some of the > successful competitors like South Africa who built > offshoring bpo on the > back of inshoring . likewise, Nigeria policy strategy > is based on local > outsourcing first. Clearly, It is much cheaper to build > local outsourcing > capacity and then use this capacity and skill base to > exploit offshoring > > In developing such a policy we should not lose sight of the > fact that bpo > is not an end in itself but a means to fully exploit the > immense > benefits of > ICTs > > Cheers > MM > > -----Original Message----- > From: Prof Waema [mailto:[email protected]] > > Sent: 02 June 2009 10:56 > To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke > Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' > Subject: RE: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, > Policy Framework > > Hi Muriuki, > > Thank you for the comments. There is no complete report at > the moment but it > is under preparation. The idea is to share the results so > far and discuss > salient issues before we have a stakeholders workshop later > on this month. > However, find below some background info: > > The overall aim of the project was “to undertake > comprehensive research in > the business process outsourcing (BPO) sub-sector in > pioneer, emerging and > mature > markets to provide evidence and a deeper understanding of > the > imperatives for success in this industry to better inform > Kenya’s policy > decisions and investment choices”. The specific > objectives were: >  To provide empirical evidence and > recommendations to inform the > development of BPO legislation, policy and strategy >  To identify the critical success > factors that underlie the BPO > industry in developing countries (in pioneer, emerging and > mature markets) >  To examine and provide comprehensive > case studies of eight countries > representing pioneer, emerging and mature BPO markets >  To analyse the business > environment/culture in Kenya in order to > identify a unique BPO marketing strategy. >  To provide a deeper understanding of > youth employment and gender > issues within the BPO sector in pioneer, emerging and > mature > markets >  To increase the level of awareness > and input among key stakeholders > through interactive dialogue on key BPO issues within the > Kenyan context >  To contribute to knowledge in this > emerging sector through > publication and dissemination. > > The project was carried out using the case study method and > involved desk > research on the Internet and in libraries, review of > existing documents, key > informant interviews and structured questionnaires. The > case study involved > BPO firms and relevant national institutions in six > countries classified as > follows: >  BPO clients: U.S.A. and U.K. >  Pioneer BPO services: Kenya >  Emerging BPO services: South Africa >  Mature BPO Services: India and > Mauritius > > The project is funded by IDRC and the University of > Nairobi. It was carried > out by the > University of Nairobi in collaboration with the Ministry > of > Information and Communications, the Kenya BPO and Contact > Centre Society, > the Kenya ICT Board and KICTANET. > > I am sure you can commend on the policy framework without a > full report. > > Regards > > Tim Waema > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+waema=uonbi.ac.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:[email protected]] > On Behalf > Of muriuki mureithi > Sent: 02 June 2009 08:47 AM > To: waema(a)uonbi.ac.ke > Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, > Policy Framework > > Hi Walu > > Thanks for madaraka day gift - a bpo. > > To provide a context of the discussion, could we access > the full report. > This will help us to understand some aspects for example > the TOR/objective > for the study, how the three economies were selected and > the time frame of > the study among other issues. > There are some other economies that have promulgated some > BPO specific > policies and innovative approach to BPO development. A > deeper insight on the > context will help us to see how to introduce such > thoughts in the > discussions > > Cheers > muriuki mureithi > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.k > e] On Behalf Of Walubengo J > Sent: 02 June 2009 08:14 > To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy > Framework > > Morning all, > > I trust you have had a well-deserved, long weekend. Today > we kick-off the > BPO discussion by focusing on the BPO Policy > environment. Indeed Policy > informs both the Legal, Regulatory and Insititutional > frameworks such that > if we get things wrong at the Policy level, then naturally, > the rest of the > frameworks will not fly. > > The BPO Research (synthesis attached) established very > comprehensive Policy > frameworks in the selected countries of study - S.Africa, > Mauritius and > India. When > compared to the Kenyan situation, the Researchers found > that at > a National level, BPO is simply listed as one of the six > KEY sectors of the > Economic Pillar within Vision2030. They also found > that the National ICT > Policy (2006) does not explicitly mention BPO - even though > some of the > objectives may implicitly relate to BPO. > > Which brings us to the specific questions for discussion: > Q1: Should we at a National level be placing emphasise on > an "ICT Sector" or > on a "BPO Sector"? which of the two should be a > subset of the other? > Q2: Beyond the BPO policy statements in our V2030 document, > dont we need to > do more by creating clear and monitorable plans/targets for > the BPO sector - > BPO Strategic Framework? How should this be done? > > We have only today for your views on this since tmrw we > move into the Legal > and Regulatory frameworks. > > walu. > Encl: BPO Research Synthesis1:-Policy, Legal, Regulatory > Frameworks > > ----e-Discussion Program outline----- > 1.The policy, legal and institutional frameworks for BPO > sector (2days, Walu > moderating) > 2.Subsidies accorded to BPO sector (2days, Walu > moderating) > 3.Human capacity issues (2days, Walu moderating) > 4.Youth and gender issues (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating) > 5.Strengths and challenges for Kenya as a BPO destination > (2days, Dr. C. > Adeya moderating > > > > > > ----------------------------------------- > This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous > content by > MailScanner, > and is believed to be clean. > > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI IS ISO CERTIFIED > > The University of Nairobi is committed to providing quality > services to all > its clients. The University will monitor and review its > quality performance > from time to time through an effective implementation of > the Quality > Management > System based on ISO 9001:2000 standard. > > University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > > > > > ----------------------------------------- > This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous > content by > MailScanner, > and is believed to be clean. > > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBI IS ISO CERTIFIED > > The University of Nairobi is committed to providing quality > services to all > its clients. The University will monitor and review its > quality performance > from time to time through an effective implementation of > the Quality > Management System based on ISO 9001:2000 standard. > > University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > > > > > -----Inline Attachment Follows----- > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com > _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet This message was sent to: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/mureithi%40summitstrate gies.co.ke

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Re: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework
by muriuki mureithi 02 Jun '09

02 Jun '09

Hi Walu Thanks for madaraka day gift - a bpo. To provide a context of the discussion, could we access the full report. This will help us to understand some aspects for example the TOR/objective for the study, how the three economies were selected and the time frame of the study among other issues. There are some other economies that have promulgated some BPO specific policies and innovative approach to BPO development. A deeper insight on the context will help us to see how to introduce such thoughts in the discussions Cheers muriuki mureithi -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+mureithi=summitstrategies.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.k e] On Behalf Of Walubengo J Sent: 02 June 2009 08:14 To: mureithi(a)summitstrategies.co.ke Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: [kictanet] Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework Morning all, I trust you have had a well-deserved, long weekend. Today we kick-off the BPO discussion by focusing on the BPO Policy environment. Indeed Policy informs both the Legal, Regulatory and Insititutional frameworks such that if we get things wrong at the Policy level, then naturally, the rest of the frameworks will not fly. The BPO Research (synthesis attached) established very comprehensive Policy frameworks in the selected countries of study - S.Africa, Mauritius and India. When compared to the Kenyan situation, the Researchers found that at a National level, BPO is simply listed as one of the six KEY sectors of the Economic Pillar within Vision2030. They also found that the National ICT Policy (2006) does not explicitly mention BPO - even though some of the objectives may implicitly relate to BPO. Which brings us to the specific questions for discussion: Q1: Should we at a National level be placing emphasise on an "ICT Sector" or on a "BPO Sector"? which of the two should be a subset of the other? Q2: Beyond the BPO policy statements in our V2030 document, dont we need to do more by creating clear and monitorable plans/targets for the BPO sector - BPO Strategic Framework? How should this be done? We have only today for your views on this since tmrw we move into the Legal and Regulatory frameworks. walu. Encl: BPO Research Synthesis1:-Policy, Legal, Regulatory Frameworks ----e-Discussion Program outline----- 1.The policy, legal and institutional frameworks for BPO sector (2days, Walu moderating) 2.Subsidies accorded to BPO sector (2days, Walu moderating) 3.Human capacity issues (2days, Walu moderating) 4.Youth and gender issues (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating) 5.Strengths and challenges for Kenya as a BPO destination (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating

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Day 1 of 10 :-BPO discussions, Policy Framework
by Walubengo J 02 Jun '09

02 Jun '09

Morning all, I trust you have had a well-deserved, long weekend. Today we kick-off the BPO discussion by focusing on the BPO Policy environment. Indeed Policy informs both the Legal, Regulatory and Insititutional frameworks such that if we get things wrong at the Policy level, then naturally, the rest of the frameworks will not fly. The BPO Research (synthesis attached) established very comprehensive Policy frameworks in the selected countries of study - S.Africa, Mauritius and India. When compared to the Kenyan situation, the Researchers found that at a National level, BPO is simply listed as one of the six KEY sectors of the Economic Pillar within Vision2030. They also found that the National ICT Policy (2006) does not explicitly mention BPO - even though some of the objectives may implicitly relate to BPO. Which brings us to the specific questions for discussion: Q1: Should we at a National level be placing emphasise on an "ICT Sector" or on a "BPO Sector"? which of the two should be a subset of the other? Q2: Beyond the BPO policy statements in our V2030 document, dont we need to do more by creating clear and monitorable plans/targets for the BPO sector - BPO Strategic Framework? How should this be done? We have only today for your views on this since tmrw we move into the Legal and Regulatory frameworks. walu. Encl: BPO Research Synthesis1:-Policy, Legal, Regulatory Frameworks ----e-Discussion Program outline----- 1.The policy, legal and institutional frameworks for BPO sector (2days, Walu moderating) 2.Subsidies accorded to BPO sector (2days, Walu moderating) 3.Human capacity issues (2days, Walu moderating) 4.Youth and gender issues (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating) 5.Strengths and challenges for Kenya as a BPO destination (2days, Dr. C. Adeya moderating

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Obama on security, net neutrality, civil liberties and privacy
by alice 30 May '09

30 May '09

Interesting things happening in the US that will affect global Internet governance: President Obama's speech "Securing Our Nation's Cyber Infrastructure", <http://www.whitehouse.gov/the_press_office/Remarks-by-the-President-on-Secu…> includes the paragraph: "Let me also be clear about what we will not do. Our pursuit of cybersecurity will not -- I repeat, will not include -- monitoring private sector networks or Internet traffic. We will preserve and protect the personal privacy and civil liberties that we cherish as Americans. Indeed, I remain firmly committed to net neutrality so we can keep the Internet as it should be -- open and free." Administration supporting network neutrality, security *and* civil liberty and privacy. Next: ICANN oversight hearing in the Congress, Thursday June 4. "Event: 'Oversight Of The Internet Corporation For Assigned Names And Numbers (ICANN)' " <http://energycommerce.house.gov/index.php?option=com_jcalpro&Itemid=54&extm…> Andrew McLaughlin will join the Obama administration as Deputy Chief Technology Officer, reporting to Aneesh Chopra <http://bits.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/29/googles-top-policy-exec-to-join-ob…>. You can see Andrew talking about technology and government in this video from the Obama transition <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=InI5n3NTvR4>.

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[Fwd: Pambazuka News 435: Celebrating Tajudeen: Tributes to a fallen giant]
by alice 29 May '09

29 May '09

For those of you who knew Tajudeen, Best alice PAMBAZUKA NEWS 435: CELEBRATING TAJUDEEN: TRIBUTES TO A FALLEN GIANT /\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\ Highlights from this issue FEATURES - Firoze Manji summaries some of the tributes paid to the life and work of Tajudeen Adbdul-Raheem - Pambazuka News draws inspiration from 15 favourite Pan-African Postcards - Images from Tajudeen's funeral PAN-AFRICAN POSTCARD - An audio clip of Tajudeen speaking at the 2007 AU Summit BOOKS AND ARTS - Mahmood Mamdani talks about his new book on Darfur - Tendai Marima on Brian Chikwava and Petina Gappah AFRICAN WRITERS CORNER - Mildred Barya interviews Caine Prize winners Helon Habila and Leila Aboulela /\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\ 1 Features TRIBUTES TO A FALLEN GIANT Firoze Manji A giant of Pan-Africanism has fallen. That is the overwhelming view of the hundreds who have written tributes to Tajudeen Abdul-Raheem ( http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/features/56535 ) since the tragedy happened. Tajudeen was killed in a car accident in Nairobi on African Liberation Day, 25 May 2009, while driving to the airport to catch a flight to Rwanda to meet with the county’s president on the current maternal mortality rate campaign. He leaves behind his family, Munira and the girls, Aida and Aisha. Their burden, and perhaps also their solace, is that they must share that loss with thousands of us who saw Taju as a member of our family too. As Emmanuel Akwetey wrote in his tribute: 'Taju's footprints are gigantic and he chose to leave them not only on us but the whole of Africa.' 'Africa has lost one of its greatest giants in the struggle for human rights, justice and democracy in the continent. You fought a good fight – you left an important footprint,' says Omano Edigheji, Human Sciences Research Council. 'He was a giant by any measure. He was genuinely committed to the liberation of our continent. Maybe after all, it was no coincidence he passed away on Africa's liberation day!', says Demba Mousaa Dembele. Tajudeen kept the universal torch of Pan-Africanism alive, writes Issa G. Shivji. 'I say universal because for Tajudeen Pan-Africanism was NOT sub-Saharan only, or black only, or Muslim or Christian or Yoruba or Ogoni only. It was truly Pan-Africanist. He wouldn't give in to culturalism or into what Nyerere once called, these territorial divisions caused by "imperialist vultures".' For all of us, the news has been difficult to take in – we wander around in a mist of disbelief. 'I have been struggling to find the words to express the distress and the sense of loss that I have been experiencing since my dearest friend Tajudeen departed from this world.' Patricia Daley 'I just cannot believe this … just cannot. I will not accept his parting us – so much work yet to be done, so much where his particular insight and wisdom from the one and only direction and perspective to reclaim Africa's dignity comes. That voice must not leave Africa – there is no substitute. Hard to find a Tajudeen amongst us. My brother, my brother, my brother – unbearable tragic news and loss not just to family, to all of us, to all of Africa!' Mammo Muchie 'Too painful to describe will be your absence… too many are the things we shall miss. Your magic way with words with moments like these with battling for an immortal idea.' Pauline Wynter and Jacques Depelchin 'I still can't believe that somebody so vital and alive is gone.' Onyekachi Wambu 'From Cape to Cairo, Mombasa to Dakar, Port of Spain to London and beyond, our grief speaks to the magnitude of his contribution.' David Johnson But through the haze created by our tears, we begin to get a sense of the size of the man we have lost. One of my favourite anecdotes about Tajudeen concerns his application for doctoral study at Oxford University under the Rhodes Scholarship scheme. In uncompromising defiance of university protocol, Tajudeen insisted on dressing in traditional style for his interview and exam, and challenged those on the selection committee as to why he should want to be associated with such a notorious imperialist as Cecil Rhodes! 'The fall of a colossus like him is like the loss of a thousand generals.' Baba Aye, Socialist Workers' Movement 'I am shocked and saddened by the sudden loss of a friend and a man of the integrity and commitment that Taju has demonstrated in his political practice.' Gavin Williams 'A defender of Africa whose passion was tinged with humane attributes; of a leader whose nationality never mattered except the pan-African nationality.' Godwin Murunga 'He is a long distance runner for African Liberation.' Walter Turner, Host, Africa Today KPFA Radio 'He was the consummate communicator, the captivating storyteller, where the need arose, the rabble-rouser, the sympathiser and ultimately the African that had the solution to whatever manner of problem. He exhorted us not to agonise, but rather organise … and as we all know, he lived his life to the last, organising.' Ezra Mbogori, Akiba Uhaki Foundation 'He was nothing if not ubiquitous in pursuit of African liberation. We shall sorely miss his unbounded energy, his unfailing grace, his infectious optimism. Many have theorised about pan-Africanism, and theory is a good thing, but theory without practice is of little effect. In Tajudeen the theory and practice of pan-Africanism found a perfect synthesis.' Michael O. West 'Tajudeen was a complex figure – a comrade, a loving father, a unifier and a brilliant intellectual – and above all, a solid Pan-Africanist. He brought vigour and urgency in whatever progressive cause he espoused… A charismatic and larger-than-life figure, he had a strong and overwhelming presence, deploying his decisive mind and powerful voice to articulate the rights of the dispossessed and have-nots in Africa and the diaspora… Tajudeen was a born optimist and harbinger of hope. He never lost faith in the ability of the African people to transform their lives and control their destiny. He remained at the frontline of Africa’s quest for political, social and economic change and fearlessly fought for a free and united Africa.' Yusuf Hassan 'His vivaciousness, joy, his clarity of thought in the most dire circumstances, his spirit of fairness and his will to take on what is not just.' Fatma Alloo Tajudeen was a relentless and bold critic of hypocrisy, something that so many people spoke about: 'He managed to shake us complacent diplomats and politicians to get out of the mentality of conference room when discussing African issues.' Ambassador Ahmed Haggag, Secretary General of the African Society 'The man was blessed with prodigious gifts: formidable intellect, eloquence, far-sightedness, energetic audacity, confidence, a sense of humour and pretty good acting skills. Not to mention his great writing ability and more.' Nii Akuetteh 'He filled the room with energy, razor sharp intellect and that most deadly weapon of struggle: humour.' David Johnson '… reliable, responsible, bold, fearless, champion of the downtrodden and oppressed, friendly, human, highly intelligent, warm and honest with his opinion.' Segun Adeyi '… larger than life, laughing, and talking boisterously everywhere.' Wangui wa Goro 'He lamented about "remunerated solidarity" from the North and the "protest by per diem" culture taking root in Africa and elsewhere in the South.' Kumi Naidoo '... crusading advocacy work of Pan-Africanism and the unity of the African people.' Dani Wadada Nabudere 'His warmth, eloquence, oratory skills, intelligence, spirit and good sense of humour.' Ebrima Ceesay 'We invited Taju to the Centre for Basic Research to give a talk,' writes Mahmood Mamdani, Herbert Lehman Professor of Government at Columbia University, New York. 'His opening salvo was a bitter indictment of Africa’s post-independence leadership: "If an American ship docked at Lagos port today, with a huge banner reading ‘Slave ship to America', there would a queue of millions of Nigerians wanting to get on that ship." This was classic Taju: there is no time for formalities or pleasantries; the time at hand is short… The most abiding memory I retain of Taju is that of eternal optimism, the determination that it is possible to proceed whatever the odds, and that the proof of genius lies in the ability to build with materials on the ground, to take a leap from text to life. He broke decisively with the "theory first" orientation of his older comrades. Taju honoured no rules, no commandments, no limits except those he encountered on the ground. He could work with anyone, whether government, UN, donor or NGO. The worth of a relationship for him did not lie in the identity of the other side, but in who set its agenda. It is worth recalling the signature with which he ended every note: "Don’t agonise, organise!"' And many of the tributes attest to the extraordinary combination of the personal and the political: 'Taju was always so helpful, cheerful, reliable and just good – all the time. We shall always remember him as the bold, happy person who always made us think, laugh and do.' Roselynn Musa 'We are proudly perched on a rare African baobab. Charisma, vivacity and integrity spout from him like water from the Mosi-oa-Tunya. His unforgettable presence, wisdom and brilliance constantly guide us through life.' Sylvie Aboa-Bradwell, Centre for Democracy and Development 'I came to have the utmost respect for his intellectual integrity, his brilliant analysis of the African predicament, and his untiring commitment to the pan-African cause. His exemplary life and work should remain a beacon for present and future generations of all Africans who are committed to putting the natural wealth of our continent to the service of the deepest aspirations of our people.' Georges Nzongola-Ntalaja 'His incisive analysis and sharp wit will be sorely missed by Pambazuka readers. Taju was one of those people that sparked any event he attended.' Deborah Bryceson 'A number of people have quoted his well-worn calling card: ‘Don’t Agonise!!! Organise!!!’ (The punctuation was deliberate). But that wide-eyed passion and righteousness, and a refusal to accept Africa’s, or his own, predicament as final is summed up for me in another of his phrases: 'Nothing For Me Without Me'. Alastair Roderick Several commented on Tajudeen's commitment to the struggle for women's rights: 'His unwavering fight and contribution for justice in Africa and its women in the global effort to fight poverty and injustice is commendable. Dr Tajudeen Abdul-Raheem will be especially remembered for his outspokenness and strong leadership in campaigning for global justice, good governance and what we stand for as Akina Mama wa Afrika. The women of Africa will always remember him for his for holding their hands in the fight for their rights and travelling this journey of stamping out inequality and the tenets of patriarchy in its various forms.' Solome Nakaweesi Kimbugwe, for and on behalf of Akina Mama Wa Afrika 'Taju understood that an African liberation can never be, without the liberation of African women. He departs the stage at a time when we need many more like him … and they are hard to come by.' Stella Mukasa, Uganda 'Thank you Taju for speaking up for the women of Africa. "Yes Jjaja", he said, "Women should not lose their lives while giving life." Not in my wildest dreams could I have imagined that our final conversation would be on life and rights. Oh Taju, that you should lose your own life fighting for women’s health rights, breathe your last on African Liberation Day.' Fatoumata Toure 'He has been an inspiration in the struggle for African liberation and African unity and in my professional life.' Doreen Lwanga 'He always sought alternatives where the mainstream had boxed us into a corner. Never one to retreat from an impasse, he’d always quote Amílcar Cabral: "Claim no easy victories, tell no lies."' Fatoumata Toure Even those who were not fortunate to have met Tajudeen spoke highly of this giant: 'Although I never had the privilege to meet him in person, he was a firm and fixed star in my personal universe.' Henning Melber 'A great man has been lost but he leaves us with thousands of words for us to ponder on Mother Africa but more importantly to ACT, to DO, to SPEAK – thats what Tajudeen did and we should follow his way now more than ever.' Sokari Ekine 'I do not know Tajudeen personally but have been a silent admirer of the sort of charisma with which he maintained his fingers on the keyboard to inform, educate and entertain Ugandan readers in particular and Africa and the world at large.' Tumusiime Kabwende Deo And due recognition has been given to Tajudeen by the Pan African Parliament: 'A group of us were gathered to meet with the Pan African Parliament (PAP), a body that Tajudeen had so much wanted to have legislative powers so that it could speed up the integration of Africa; a continent that was so close to Taju's heart. ... Twice, the Parliament gave a minute's silence in remembrance of an African icon; a man who knew every single leader on the continent; a man who never minced his words, even in the face of the most ruthless dictators, like his former President Sani Abacha who had wanted to kill him.' Dimas Nkunda ( http://www.observer.ug/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&id=34:new… ) 'In his work within the Pan African movement, Tajudeen was a consummate diplomat. Behind his disarming wit lay a critical understanding of the need to reach the people. Tajudeen knew the social movements across Africa. Within the Pan African movement he had to interface with many of the leaders who had come to power through the movement for change. From Kampala, Tajudeen worked tirelessly with the movement for peace in the Sudan. Opposition to wars and genocide was not an intellectual matter for Tajudeen, it was a matter of urgency that required skilful negotiation of African politics. Tajudeen was as opposed to the senseless war in Northern Uganda as he was opposed to the militarism and genocidal violence in the Sudan. He wanted to ensure that he was able to be effective as an opponent to these violations and betrayals. At times the betrayal was most painful as in the moment of the tragic death of John Garang of the Sudanese Peoples Liberation Movement. The record of the meetings for peace convened in Kampala remains a record to be built upon by those committed to the Pan African principles of peace.' Horace G Campbell THE WAY FORWARD 'What can we do to memorialise this great patriot of our Africa? We won't stop mourning anytime soon, but after our tears have dried up, can we start planning something in his name?', asks Akwasi Aidoo from TrustAfrica. '... may I humbly propose to create a "Tajudeen Annual African Prize" to be given to a personality whom a panel decide has done a great service for the cause of Pan- Africanism.' Ambassador Ahmed Haggag, Secretary General of the African Society '… immortalising him to guide a rising generation of socialist, pan- Africanist activists, by compiling his profound writings and making this widely available. Sun re o, egbon Taju…sun re.' Baba Aye, Socialist Workers' Movement 'Let each NGO recruit brand-new activists (as few as one and as many as capacity allows). Call them "Tajudeen Fellows". And train and mentor them to become brilliant activists. In this training, it is crucial that each learns to uncover a problem challenging global Africa. However, having exposed problems and challenges, they must not agonise, but must organise.' Nii Akuetteh '… start thinking of working out a strategy for an AU and ECOWAS summit to declare Taju an African hero of our time.' Nana Busia 'The best we can do to honour his tireless efforts in promoting social and political justice in Africa is to continue exposing the injustice that exists and call for a renewed sense of quality African citizenry. ' Ronald Elly Wanda 'The Prof has done his deed, living his life to the fullest and inspiring a multitude of Africans. The ball is now in our court.' Salma Maoulidi, Sahiba Sisters Foundation, Tanzania 'He would not want us to mourn him long. Instead, he would want us to remember his words on every African Liberation Day – "Don't agonise, organise!" – until the continent is free.' Patricia Daley 'You will be missed dear friend but we know well, like Biko, Nkrumah, Lumumba, Cabral, Rodney, and countless others, your spirit lives!' Emira Woods, Institute for Policy Studies 'Tajudeen led, now we must follow.' Michael O. West 'I am only certain about one thing. If one had asked Taju which day he would love to go in the far future, I am sure Taju would have said Africa Day. And as long as Africa Day is celebrated, Tajudeen will be remembered. For years Tajudeen has embraced this liberation day, and today it has liberated him from all earthly responsibilities and embraced him tightly, never to release him. It is one sad and symbolic gesture of the day claiming its own postcard, its one giant who has identified with the day all these years. It gives me a tiny thread of consolation that Tajudeen’s memory has been preserved, immortalised in a significant day that will always be alive. Because of this I pray, "Go down gracefully, Taju, and shine on." Amen.' Mildred Kiconco Barya 'In the words of Thomas Sankara, Tajudeen "dared to invent the future". He had a vision of Africa as she is meant to be and offered us his love to join him in making it a reality. May we all continue his legacy. Forward ever!' Hakima Abbas *** Pambazuka News is proud to have been given the responsibility of hosting a page where tributes to this great comrade, friend, fighter and leader can be shared. Please continue to send in your tributes: we know that there are many who will write once they have managed to control the grief that we all feel deeply. I am consumed by grief, but also by anger: Tajudeen was famous for railing against the failures of the neocolonial elite. Perhaps amongst one of their greatest failures has been to have done almost nothing to prevent the escalating epidemic of road traffic injuries in Africa that claim the lives of millions every year. I cannot prevent the sense of outrage that their neglect has contributed to the death of this hero of Africa. In celebration of his writing over the years, Pambazuka is re- publishing a selection of Tajudeen's weekly Pan-African Postcards and is also planning to publish a printed collection in collaboration with Justice Africa and others. We hope that all institutions will consider the suggestions made above to establish initiatives that enable the fight that Tajudeen so profoundly believed in to continue. I hesitate to use the phrase that many have, 'A luta continua'. Whenever Taju and I met, we would bemoan the fact that our elites merely translated that slogan to mean 'The looting continues!' We all share the sense of disbelief – and even betrayal – at your departure, Taju. But as they said about Hotel California, 'You can check out any time, but you can never leave'. * Firoze Manji is editor in chief of Pambazuka News. * Please send comments to editor(a)pambazuka.org or comment online at http://www.pambazuka.org/ . ****** LESSONS IN LIBERATION: REMEMBERING TAJUDEEN The Pambazuka News team highlights 15 of our favourite Pan-African Postcards Pambazuka News Pambazuka News has published Tajudeen’s weekly Pan-African Postcard regularly since 2004. While we joke that Tajudeen’s writing was ‘an editor’s nightmare’, it was first and foremost a source of penetrating, incisive insight into pan-African affairs, expressed with humour and an underlying sense of optimism and belief that, however great the challenges the continent faces, by uniting and organising, we can build Africa into a great place for all its citizens. In celebration of Tajudeen’s commitment and contribution to Pan- Africanism – and to the Pambazuka community – we have picked a few of our favourite postcards to share with you. These postcards, listed in chronological order, demonstrate Tajudeen’s uncanny ability to see to the heart of the matter, to understand the workings of the human heart, to clarify complex and controversial issues and to inspire people to work for change. 2004 1) Remembering Africa Day ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/22475 ) Our first postcard is about the importance of remembering Africa Day – or rather Africa Liberation Day, as Tajudeen referred to it – a day on which we will also now always remember him. ‘The whole of Africa may now be under African rule but the agenda of liberating our peoples from poverty, ignorance and underdevelopment is as real today as it was in the 1960s and even more urgent.’ 2005 2) Wanted: Followers of Prophet Blair for missionary work in Africa ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/27319 ) Tajudeen expresses scepticism about Tony Blair’s Commission for Africa and its plans to save the continent in 2005, a ‘make or break year’. ‘It is still seeking to adjust Africa to global forces despite timid recognition in sections of the report that trade liberalisation, privatisation and the donor-driven market mantra have hugely contributed to the collapse of infrastructure, social lives and caused great deprivation in Africa.’ 2006 3) Bye-Bye to Blair, Brown, Bob and Bono – the B stars in poverty pornography ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/31077 ) Tajudeen is relieved to see the end of attempts by ‘busy-body new missionaries in the West’ to ‘dance poverty out of town’ and ‘talkit out of existence’. ‘I hope that in the new year these NGOs will start looking more to Africa and Africans rather than false prophets, saviours and messiahs from outside.’ 4) Everyday should be a Woman's Day ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/32589 ) Tajudeen celebrates the ‘giant strides’ made by African women but says the fact that we ‘point to women in top places’ means that their achievements are still unusual. ‘…we should spend the rest of the 364 days of every year taking action locally while thinking globally on how to right these wrongs. It is impossible to create a better world without bettering the lot of women.’ 5) Football, Davids and Goliaths ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/35507 ) Why is it that there are Africans in every winning football team, asks Tajudeen, but no winning African football teams? ‘No matter how talented a player is, in football, you are part of a team. We are big on big players and short on team spirit.’ 6) From now on I say: not in my name ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/36703 ) Tajudeen’s friends at the AU summit try to work out why he looks different – it's because he’s stopped smoking, following a plea from his daughter. Listen to the podcast ( http://www.pambazuka.org/media/PZ0004.mp3 ) [mp3]. ‘I was… sad that my lifestyle was making her feel that her father might not be there. The buzz, the urge and everything that goes with that puff drained out of me that morning and ever since I have not filled up the pipe again.’ 7) Islamic faith replaced Communism in the pantheons of Western phobias ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/37268 ) Tajudeen remarks on the ripple effects on religious tolerance of Pope Benedict XVI’s ill-judged comments on Islam. ‘All citizens, whether Christian or Muslim or the majority who are neither, deserve and should enjoy the full rights to the protection of their lives, place of worship, and freedom of their consciences along with other rights.’ 8) Honour To Whom It is Due: Celebrating Issa Shivji ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/38956 ) Professor Issa Shivji is a legend in his own lifetime, for whom ALUTA CONTINUA is not just a slogan, but a working motto, writes Tajudeen. ‘It is not often that Africans, especially those of us on the Left, say thank you to one of us. Often we reserve our best homage till they are no longer with us.’ 2007 9) Slavery is not dead ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/40537 ) Maybe Africans are not interested in talking about slavery because it reminds us that many of our people today, whether in Africa or in the diaspora, still live like slaves. ‘Like chiefs and emperors, kings and other slave dealers of old our presidents and prime ministers preside over a system of power that continues to make our peoples "hewers of wood and drawers of water", while the riches of this continent continue to be siphoned off by others.’ 10) The embarrassing grotesqueness of presidents ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/40903 ) Why do leaders who promise national rebirth and inspire their compatriots to believe in them end up disappointing them? It is because they stay too long in power, says Tajudeen. ‘Afrika will survive these leaders but more than that we shall overcome these obstacles. We just have to keep hope alive and continue with the struggles.’ 11) A Robin Hood president of Nigeria? ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/41748 ) Amid fears that Nigeria’s elections were rigged, President Umaru Yar’Adua must show his independence from Olusegun Obasanjo if he is to gain credibility, writes Tajudeen. ‘We cannot be blaming any problems on Obasanjo anymore. As the Americans say: The buck stops at Yar’Adua’s desk now.’ 12) Death by committee ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/42392 ) How many more bureaucratic committees do we need to decide whether or not to form an African Union government, asks Tajudeen. It is time to get the people on board. ‘…the debate in the next six months in all our countries should shift to the streets, seminar halls, parliaments, county halls and at all levels to challenge our leaders and democratise the discussion'. 13) The demand for common citizenship ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/comment/42078 ) Any serious talk of building a United States of Africa must begin with the need to guarantee full citizenship rights to all Africans, and the freedoms to move, settle, work and participate in the political processes anywhere they may be, argues Tajudeen. ‘The granting of African citizenship will not automatically solve all the problems of ethnicity, racism, exclusionism and intolerance. What it will set is a new and more inclusive legal and political framework for us to deal with these problems as equal members of a shared political community without anyone of us feeling superior or inferior, or at the mercy of other citizens.’ 14) Welcome to democratic Kenya where you can buy your own party ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/43405 ) Politics is about money not people, writes Tajudeen, with Kenya as the ultimate example of the privatisation of politics through the veneer of multiparty democracy. ‘…the science of Monetics may be more appropriate than political science theories in understanding how the country is governed and mis- governed.’ 2008 15) Greed, pauperisation, and the free market ( http://pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican/51209 ) The global economic downturn demonstrates why Africa should not accept neoliberalism and external wisdom as the answer to all its woes. ‘For decades we are told that the state is "useless", "inefficient", "parasitic", and "anti-enterprise", yet when the wheelers and dealers are in trouble they fall back on the same state to bail them out with freebies!’ You can view more of Tajudeen’s Pan-African Postcards on the Pambazuka website ( http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/panafrican ) . * Tell us which are your favourite postcards and why by writing to editor(a)pambazuka.org or commenting online at http://www.pambazuka.org/. ****** IMAGES FROM TAJUDEEN'S FUNERAL The following are a set of images of Tajudeen's final journey from Abuja back to his birthplace of Funtua in Nigeria. http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/features/56583 ****** /\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\ 2 Pan-African Postcard TAJUDEEN AT THE 2007 AFRICAN UNION SUMMIT Tajudeen Abdul-Raheem Capturing the spirit of his inimitable public-speaking style, this audio clip ( http://www.pambazuka.org/images/articles/435/mp3/taju_2007_afr_union.mp3 ) [mp3] of Tajudeen's comments at a debate on the union government at the 2007 African Union summit in Accra is a fitting testament to his ability to combine quick-thinking and humour when delivering a critical message. ****** /\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\ 3 Books & arts THE WEST'S CHILD SOLDIERS Mahmood Mamdani with Ruben Eberlein In an interview with Mahmood Mamdani, Ruben Eberlein ( http://rubeneberlein.wordpress.com/ ) questions the author about his views on the Darfur conflict and his latest book Saviors and Survivors: Darfur, Politics, and the War on Terror. Contending that children and teenagers in the US mobilised under the Save Darfur campaign should be considered as 'child soldiers' supporting a military effort, Mamdani argues that what essentially represents a form of political mobilisation for war has been effectively promoted as a moral crusade. Mamdani will be speaking at an event organised by Pambazuka News in Oxford, UK, on Tuesday 2 June ( http://fahamubooks.org/events/?fa=event&event_id=3 ) . http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/books/56582 ****** SILENCING SILENCE AND RESISTING REPRESSION A commentary on Brian Chikwava’s Harare North and Petina Gappah's An Elegy for Easterly Tendai Marima Brian Chikwava's comedic new novel Harare North ( http://tinyurl.com/qyfyun ) and An Elegy for Easterly ( http://www.petinagappah.com/ elegy.html ) , Petina Gappah's courageous collection of short stories, confirm that Zimbabwe is still a literary powerhouse, writes Tendai Marima. http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/books/56610 ****** /\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\ 4 African Writers’ Corner 'WRITING IS THE ONLY THING I ENJOY' An interview with Helon Habila Mildred Kiconco Barya With this year's Caine Prize for African Writing Shortlist ( http://www.caineprize.com/ ) now announced, Mildred Kiconco Barya interviews Helon Habila, the 2001 winner of the prize. http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/African_Writers/56578 ****** A CERTAIN BEAUTY AND A CERTAIN HAPPINESS An interview with Leila Aboulela Mildred Kiconco Barya With this year's Caine Prize for African Writing Shortlist ( http://www.caineprize.com/ ) now announced, Mildred Kiconco Barya interviews Leila Aboulela, the 2000 winner of the prize. http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/African_Writers/56579 ****** HISTORY Karest Lewela I feel the intensity of the pressure crushing me In this ocean of a world, I remain confused Am I the gushing waves or the solid rocks? However the perspective, I am crushed Left wishing I were the sand, inconsequential Indifferent observer in the war of futility As the tide subsides I wait impatiently for the wind of fortune To carry the grains of my persona With the unfulfilled aspirations of my father’s mother I pray for the salty waters of perspiration To soak in my negative-ism and negative-ity I see a thousand different ways I could have chosen to go down Ignorance, Poverty, Vainglory I choose the bullet of idealism That should the world not hear my scream, they’d feel the thud Of aspirations ignored, of dreams deferred, of dead passion Ideological death that will resurrect into curiosity for those to come Let the scarlet pigmentation soak into the soils Let it be impossible to wash it away in wishful thought Let it seep into the essence that was humanity Let it be the cause of delirium Let it ring Hollow In the morning Let them whisper in murmuring tremors Of the lies written in historical epithets Let them confess for deprivation of an identity Of a rich heritage that would shame their lack of culture Let them name me after my forefathers and not theirs For I am of them that history corrupted their story http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/African_Writers/56577 ****** /\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\ 5 Blogging Africa REVIEW OF THE AFRICAN BLOGOSPHERE – MAY 28, 2009 Dibussi Tande Dibussi reviews the following blogs: New in Nairobi ( http://newinnairobi.blogspot.com/2009/05/men-and-women-in-kenya.html/ ) Edirisa ( http://www.edirisa.org/studio/?p=675/ ) Rafiki Kenya ( http://rafiki-kenya.blogspot.com/2009/05/eco-cabs-driving-green-in-style-fi… ) OoTheNigerian ( http://oonwoye.com/blog/2009/05/10/cleaning-nigerias-image-n-the-internet-t… ) Agendia Aloysius ( http://agendiaaloysius.blogspot.com/2009/05/away-with-foreign-military-base… ) Scribbles from the Den ( http://www.dibussi.com/2009/05/memory-lane-may-26-1990-the-launching-of-the… ) http://www.pambazuka.org/en/category/blog/56581 ****** /\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\/\/\//\ Fahamu - Networks For Social Justice http://www.fahamu.org Pambazuka News is published by Fahamu Ltd. © Unless otherwise indicated, all materials published are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 Unported License. For further details see: http://www.pambazuka.org/en/about.php Pambazuka news can be viewed online: English language edition ( http://www.pambazuka.org/en ) Edição em língua Portuguesa ( http://www.pambazuka.org/pt ) Edition française ( http://www.pambazuka.org/fr ) RSS Feeds available at http://www.pambazuka.org/en/newsfeed.php Pambazuka News is published with the support of a number of funders, details of which can be obtained at http://www.pambazuka.org/en/about.php To SUBSCRIBE or UNSUBSCRIBE go to: http://pambazuka.gn.apc.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/pambazuka-news or send a message to editor(a)pambazuka.org with the word SUBSCRIBE or UNSUBSCRIBE in the subject line as appropriate. The views expressed here are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of Pambazuka News or Fahamu. With over 1000 contributors and an estimated 500,000 readers Pambazuka News is the authoritative pan African electronic weekly newsletter and platform for social justice in Africa providing cutting edge commentary and in-depth analysis on politics and current affairs, development, human rights, refugees, gender issues and culture in Africa. In addition to its online store, Fahamu Books ( http://fahamubooks.org/?utm_source=pz435&utm_medium=email ) is pleased to announce that Yash Tandon’s Ending Aid Dependence is now available for purchase in bookstores in Tanzania, Ghana, Zambia, Malaysia, and Mauritius. For more information on the location of these stores, please visit Where to buy our books ( http://fahamubooks.org/bookstores/?utm_source=pz435&utm_medium=email ) on the Fahamu Books website, or purchase online ( http://fahamubooks.org/book/?GCOI=90638100770030&utm_source=pz435&utm_mediu… ) . *Pambazuka News has now joined Twitter. By following 'pambazuka' on Twitter you can receive headlines from our 'Features' and 'Comment & Analysis' sections as they are published, and can even receive our headlines via SMS. Visit our Twitter page for more information: http://twitter.com/pambazuka *Pambazuka News now has a Del.icio.us page, where you can view the various websites that we visit to keep our fingers on the pulse of Africa! Visit http://delicious.com/pambazuka_news ISSN 1753-6839

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FW: [outsourcingmonitor] Shifts in global outsourcing sees Egypt break into top ten offshoring destinations
by muriuki mureithi 29 May '09

29 May '09

Hi all A backgrounder for the e-discussions Muriuki _____ From: Edwin Nyanducha [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 28 May 2009 21:57 To: outsourcingmonitor(a)themondayjournal.com Subject: [outsourcingmonitor] Shifts in global outsourcing sees Egypt break into top ten offshoring destinations Shifts in global outsourcing sees Egypt break into top ten offshoring destinations Source: BI-ME , Author: BI-ME staff Posted: Wed May 20, 2009 3:06 pm EGYPT. Egypt has emerged as the 6th most attractive offshoring destination according to the 2009 AT Kearney Global Services Location Index entering the top ten for the first time. The report analyses and ranks countries for locating outsourcing activities including IT services, contact centers and back office support. It measures against three categories: financial attractiveness, people and skills availability and business environment. Egypt, having ranked 13th in 2007, is fast becoming one of the world's hottest offshoring destinations and has established itself as the leading Middle East and North Africa location. The report cited the competitive cost and the availability of qualified people on top of Egypt's biggest attractions. A recent report by the Commonwealth Business Council and CyberMedia also highlights Egypt's continued progress and capabilities, ranking it the number one outsourcing destination in Africa. The study which outlined the outsourcing readiness of 15 African nations, clearly expressed that infrastructure, people and skills played a key role in the offering, with Egypt ranking highly in these areas, and topping the list overall. Commenting on the findings of the recent AT Kearney report, Dr Hazem Abdelazim, CEO of Egypt's Information Technology Development Industry Agency (ITIDA) said: "We are seeing a continued shift in the global outsourcing landscape. Companies looking to outsource are looking not only at the cost benefits, but also at the skills and availability of talent and the overall business environment. Egypt is continuing to push forward in developing its large talent pool and in providing a safe, modern business environment." The ever-growing list of multinationals investing in Egypt including Vodafone, Teleperformance, IBM, Microsoft, SQS, Stream Global Services, and Valeo is another testament to the country's unwavering efforts to establish itself as a leading global outsourcing destination. --- Regards, Edwin Nyanducha

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Re: [kictanet] Fw: [ISOC] Nominations for 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award Due by29 May
by Walubengo J 29 May '09

29 May '09

I would support Brian's nomination but hasten to add one Michuki Mwangi - the founding technical manager for KENIC, KIXP and probably others we do not know about. But I think the technical group (skunkworks) would be better placed to nominate. walu. --- On Thu, 5/28/09, Eric M.K Osiakwan <emko(a)internetresearch.com.gh> wrote: > From: Eric M.K Osiakwan <emko(a)internetresearch.com.gh> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Fw: [ISOC] Nominations for 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award Due by29 May > To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Date: Thursday, May 28, 2009, 7:13 PM > I think Brian's > technical work on the continent over the years, could merit > a submission...... > Eric here > > > On 28 May 2009, at 08:26, alice munyua > wrote: > > No. unfortunately. They need techies....:) > Best > Alice > From: Kamotho Njenga > Date: Thu, 28 May 2009 11:02:01 +0300 > To: <alice(a)apc.org> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Fw: [ISOC] Nominations for > 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award Due by29 May > > Alice,Might > you be the eligible > Kenyan? Kamotho > > On 5/28/09, alice munyua <alice(a)apc.org> > wrote:Dear all > I m sure we have Kenyans who would bag this award. > > Best > Alice > ------Original Message------ > From: Greg Wood > Sender: isoc-members-announce-bounces(a)elists.isoc.org > To: isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org > Subject: [ISOC] Nominations for 2009 Jonathan B. Postel > Service Award Due by29 May > Sent: May 27, 2009 11:35 PM > > Dear Colleagues, > > Nominations for the 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award > are due by > 29 May. The Internet Society presents this annual award to > an > individual or an organization that has made outstanding > contributions > in service to the data communications community. This year > the award > will be presented during the 75th Internet Engineering Task > Force > (IETF) meeting in Stockholm, Sweden, 26-31 July. The award > includes a > presentation crystal and a prize of USD20,000. > > The award recognizes sustained and substantial technical > contributions, service to the community, and leadership. > With respect > to leadership, the nominations committee places particular > emphasis on > candidates who have supported and enabled others in > addition to their > own specific actions. > > More information about the award, the nomination procedure, > and about > Jon Postel's life and contributions is available at: > > http://www.isoc.org/postel/ > > -- > Greg Wood > Internet Society > http://www.isoc.org > > office: +1-703-439-2145 > mobile: +1-703-625-3917 > _______________________________________________ > Isoc-members-announce mailing list > Isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org > http://elists.isoc.org/mailman/listinfo/isoc-members-announce > > _______________________________________________ > 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.… > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: emko(a)internetresearch.com.gh > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emko%40internetresearc… > > Eric > M.K OsiakwanDirector Internet > Researchwww.internetresearch.com.ghemko(a)internetresearch.com.gh42 > Ring Road Central, Accra-NorthTel: +233.21.258800 > ext 7031Fax: +233.21.258811Cell: > +233.24.4386792 > > > > > -----Inline Attachment Follows----- > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com >

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Fw: [ISOC] Nominations for 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award Due by29 May
by alice munyua 28 May '09

28 May '09

Dear all I m sure we have Kenyans who would bag this award. Best Alice ------Original Message------ From: Greg Wood Sender: isoc-members-announce-bounces(a)elists.isoc.org To: isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org Subject: [ISOC] Nominations for 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award Due by29 May Sent: May 27, 2009 11:35 PM Dear Colleagues, Nominations for the 2009 Jonathan B. Postel Service Award are due by 29 May. The Internet Society presents this annual award to an individual or an organization that has made outstanding contributions in service to the data communications community. This year the award will be presented during the 75th Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) meeting in Stockholm, Sweden, 26-31 July. The award includes a presentation crystal and a prize of USD20,000. The award recognizes sustained and substantial technical contributions, service to the community, and leadership. With respect to leadership, the nominations committee places particular emphasis on candidates who have supported and enabled others in addition to their own specific actions. More information about the award, the nomination procedure, and about Jon Postel's life and contributions is available at: http://www.isoc.org/postel/ -- Greg Wood Internet Society http://www.isoc.org office: +1-703-439-2145 mobile: +1-703-625-3917 _______________________________________________ Isoc-members-announce mailing list Isoc-members-announce(a)elists.isoc.org http://elists.isoc.org/mailman/listinfo/isoc-members-announce

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New security threats affect the Web, warns Symantec
by alice 28 May '09

28 May '09

28 May 2009 <http://www.euractiv.com/en/Archive?sevenDays> News http://www.euractiv.com/en/financial-services/new-security-threats-affect-w… New security threats affect the Web, warns Symantec[fr <http://www.euractiv.com/fr/services-financiers/internet-face-nouvelles-mena…>][de <http://www.euractiv.com/de/finanzdienstleistungen/symantec-warnt-neue-siche…>] Published: Monday 25 May 2009 Stealing confidential information on the Internet is becoming increasingly sophisticated and tricky to monitor as it can hit legitimate websites, Symantec's security intelligence chief told EurActiv, warning that 1.6 million new malicious threats have been identified in 2008 alone. Background: According to the 2008 annual reportPdf external <http://eval.symantec.com/mktginfo/enterprise/white_papers/b-whitepaper_inte…> on the security of the Web published by Internet security firm Symantec in April, the black market for personal data, especially financial information, is thriving (EurActiv 16/04/09 <http://www.euractiv.com/en/financial-services/report-online-black-market-pe…>). Information about credit cards represented 32% of data illegally available online in 2008, compared to 21% in 2007. The volume of bank account details on sale rose from 17% to 19% in the same period, according to the report. The data is used to carry out financial fraud, which not only hits the victims but the entire e-commerce and electronic payment markets too, both of which are strongly promoted by the European Commission. More on this topic: ListNews: Report: Online black market for personal data thriving <http://www.euractiv.com/en/financial-services/report-online-black-market-pe…> Other related news: * MasterCard agrees to lower cross-border fees <http://www.euractiv.com/en/financial-services/mastercard-agrees-lower-cross…> * Pittella: EU search engine to counter low financial mobility <http://www.euractiv.com/en/financial-services/pittella-eu-search-engine-cou…> * Parliament pushes for Ryanair model for banks <http://www.euractiv.com/en/financial-services/parliament-pushes-ryanair-mod…> * EU: Flights and restaurants risky for payment cards <http://www.euractiv.com/en/financial-services/eu-flights-restaurants-risky-…> * Commission investigates Visa's cross-border card fees <http://www.euractiv.com/en/financial-services/commission-investigates-visa-…> The online world is changing rapidly, bringing with it a series of new risks. The most common type of online fraud - phishing, which draws Web users to fake websites mirroring the sites of genuine companies - is becoming rapidly outdated, according to Dean Turnerexternal <http://www.symantec.com/about/news/resources/press_kits/bio.jsp?bioid=dean_…>, director of Web security firm Symantec's global intelligence network. "Criminals are increasingly targeting trusted websites," warned Turner, explaining that hackers are now able to corrupt parts or applications of perfectly legitimate websites. Users' data can be collected simply by clicking the wrong link on a genuine site. "Threats are invisible, they are in the background. Your computer is redirected to another website, usually located in another country, which drops trojans in your system. They capture information and send it to other computers. Data are usually stored in external servers and then sold in the underground economy," explains Turner. A trojan is an application which, like the famous Trojan horse in the Greek epic, is installed on unsuspecting Web users' computers. Upon infiltrating a system, it is able to send back information about everything that has been typed in, including user names, passwords and security codes. Such sensitive information can easily be used to steal money directly or sell it to other potential fraudsters. And this is just the tip of the iceberg. "The growth of security threats is astronomical. 1.6 million new malicious threats were registered in 2008, a 165% increase," Turner explained. It is obvious that companies like Symantec, or its rival McAfee, have a direct interest in the growth of such threats, as they are currently the only security companies operating on the Net. Turner predictably dismissed all such allegations against his company. "That's like blaming a doctor for a disease," he said. What is certain is that Symantec's turnover is steadily increasing as new Internet dangers emerge. In any case, a secure means of avoiding annoyances and fraud related to online banking and the use of payment cards on the Web is for users to change their password every time. It is better to use codes which do not need to be typed in, but can be activated by mouse. Buying online remains a risky activity from secure websites too, Turner warned. "If you have a piece of malware in your computer it could be a problem," he acknowledged, citing payment cards as the easiest target for fraudsters, in comparison with more secure Internet-based modes of payment like PayPal.

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Congrats to John Walubengo
by John K. Njoroge 28 May '09

28 May '09

I salute and congratulate John Walubengo for being elected as a Primary Director to join the AfriNic Board representing the East African region. This is very good news for Kenya and ofcourse the East African region as a whole. All the best to AfriNic and especially to Walu. -- John Njoroge Directorate of e-Government Tel: 020-2227411 (Ext 22098)

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