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Safaricom technician abducted in Mandera by militia
by Mwendwa Kivuva 23 Apr '25

23 Apr '25

The alleged abduction of Safaricom personnel while on duty in Mandera shows the challenges tech workers face while working in volatile and militant-prone regions. Security agencies in Mandera are currently pursuing suspected Al-Shabaab militants following the abduction of a Safaricom technician in the volatile Bamba Ola area, roughly 25 kilometres north of Elwak. https://eastleighvoice.co.ke/northern-kenya/141125/safaricom-technician-abd… In 2023, Suspected Shabaab terrorists damaged a Safaricom mast in Mandera https://nation.africa/kenya/counties/mandera/suspected-shabaab-terrorists-d… Best Regards, ______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva, Nairobi, Kenya https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwendwa-kivuva

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KICTANet April 2025 Highlights + Africa Tech Policy Summit Announcement
by David Indeje 23 Apr '25

23 Apr '25

Dear Listers, We are sharing a summary of our articles published in April 2025, reflecting our ongoing commitment to advancing digital rights, inclusion, and empowerment in Kenya: Our publications this month focused on several key areas: - *Advocating for Digital Rights:* We actively participated in Kenya’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) pre-session in Geneva <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/kictanet-advocates-for-digital-rights-in-kenyas-…>, pushing for stronger digital and human rights protections as part of Kenya's international obligations. - *Building Coalitions:* We explored the potential benefits of a coalition between human and digital rights organizations in Kenya <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/do-human-and-digital-rights-organisations-need-a…>through the KenSafeSpace initiative. Additionally, KICTANet and the Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE) co-hosted a forum in Nairobi emphasizing the urgent need for unified advocacy to safeguard freedom of expression <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/digital-rights-under-siege-kenyan-stakeholders-u…> amidst growing digital threats. - *Digital Empowerment:* In partnership with the UK Government, we celebrated the successful conclusion of the Strengthening Digital Communities (SDC) Project <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/kictanet-and-uk-government-celebrate-digital-emp…>, which has positively impacted over 600,000 citizens in marginalized Kenyan communities through digital literacy and access initiatives. - *Condemning Internet Shutdowns:* KICTANet joined global voices in condemning internet shutdowns, urging Gabonese authorities to #KeepItOn during elections, highlighting the detrimental effects on democracy and human rights. - *Examining Kenya's Digital Future:* We had discussions on data ownership and privacy in Kenya’s digital transformation <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/diving-into-kenyas-digital-future-maisha-namba-e…>, particularly concerning digital ID systems like Maisha Namba and eCitizen. We also explored the role and challenges faced by women in Kenya’s expanding gig economy <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/women-in-kenyas-gig-economy-charting-a-fair-incl…>, advocating for a fair and equitable future. *Save the Date: Africa Tech Policy Summit (AfTPS)* We are also excited to announce the inaugural *Africa Tech Policy Summit <https://techpolicysummit.africa/>(AfTPS)*, organized by KICTANet, which will be held in Nairobi, Kenya, from *May 12-16, 2025*. This week-long event will bring together policymakers, private sector leaders, academia, civil society, and tech startups from across Africa to promote the harmonization of tech policies and foster technological development across the continent. Themed *“Tech for Human Development: Policy, Innovation, and Inclusive Governance,”* the summit will feature: - *Kenya Internet Governance Forum (KeIGF):* May 14, 2025 - *East Africa Internet Governance Forum (EAIGF):* May 15-16, 2025 - *Kenya School of Internet Governance (KESIG):* Online learning (April 28 - May 9, 2025), Industry events (May 7-9, 2025) - Dedicated sessions for *Youth and Children’s IGF* The AfTPS aims to generate actionable recommendations for harmonizing tech policies across Africa, foster partnerships among stakeholders, and identify pathways for supporting innovation and inclusive digital transformation. We encourage you to save the date and join us for this landmark event! Thank you for your continued interest in KICTANet's work. -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Need for Scrutiny of Multi-Billion Government Technology Contracts
by Victor Kapiyo 21 Apr '25

21 Apr '25

Public concern is rising in Kenya over multi-billion shilling technology contracts due to exorbitant costs and deals favoring vendors, leaving the government vulnerable. Recent revelations of billions of shillings from the e-visa system being transferred to a Swiss bank account have fueled these concerns. Also for consideration are contracts to eCitizen and those by counties for various digital platforms. The situation highlights a need for greater transparency and accountability in government technology procurement. Read more: https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2025-04-17-spotlight-on-kenyas-multi-billio… *Victor Kapiyo* Partner | *Lawmark Partners LLP* *Nine Planet Apartments, Nairobi | **Web: www.lawmark.co.ke <http://www.lawmark.co.ke/> * ==================================================== *“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” Zig Ziglar*

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Crackdown on Illegal ISPs in Kenya
by Victor Kapiyo 17 Apr '25

17 Apr '25

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) discovered 132 unlicensed internet service providers (ISPs) operating across 15 counties, mostly offering unregulated fiber internet. Mombasa and Kwale had the highest number, recording a total of 38 unlicensed providers. Kilifi had 12, while Meru, Embu, Kirinyaga, and Nyeri registered a combined total of 23. The operators often purchase bandwidth from licensed providers and resell it without authorization, posing risks to users and creating unfair competition. The CA is taking action, including court cases, enforcement measures, and compliance notices, to address this issue and protect consumers. Read more: https://eastleighvoice.co.ke/technology/139180/ca-uncovers-132-illegal-inte… Regards, *Victor Kapiyo* Partner | *Lawmark Partners LLP* *Nine Planet Apartments, Nairobi | **Web: www.lawmark.co.ke <http://www.lawmark.co.ke/> * ==================================================== *“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” Zig Ziglar*

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Apply for KeSIG 2025!
by David Indeje 16 Apr '25

16 Apr '25

[image: WhatsApp Image 2025-03-17 at 14.29.01_a537de05.jpg] Dear Listers, KICTANet is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 10th Kenya School of Internet Governance (KeSIG)! This tutor-guided online course will run from April 28th to May 9th, 2025. KeSIG provides foundational training in internet policy, empowering you to engage effectively in local and global internet policymaking. *The application deadline is April 20th, 2025.* [Apply here: Application Link <https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeEnL4kFL3QQOwF_oqdO5HVxrZ61ill74d…> ] KeSIG precedes the Kenya Internet Governance Forum (KIGF), a key event of the Africa Tech Policy Summit (AfTPS) taking place May 12-16, 2025. We encourage you to apply and become a part of the growing community of Internet Governance leaders in Africa. -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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Invitation: Gig Economy Policy Consultation Roundtable
by Nicodemus Nyakundi 16 Apr '25

16 Apr '25

Dear Listers, KICTANet, in collaboration with the Digital Transformation Center (DTC) and with the support of GIZ, is organizing a strategic policy roundtable on* April 17, 2025*, in Nairobi, as part of our ongoing project on Developing Strategic Policy Recommendations for the Gig Economy in Kenya. We wish to invite *five members* from our listserv to participate and contribute in this policy consultation roundtable. To express your interest, please complete the *RSVP form* <https://forms.gle/cXx5uNSA4yiPPhjz9> by April 15, close of business. Additional information and *concept notes* are available at the following *link* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/policy-consultation-roundtable-on-regulating-ken…> Please note that participant selection will be on a first come, first-served basis. Best regards, *Nicodemus Nyakundi* Program Assistant Digital Rights and Accessibility @*KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> _____________________________________________________________ KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicodemus-nyakundi-68a9a587/recent-activity/all/> | X <https://x.com/NicNyakundi> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/> | Instagram <https://www.instagram.com/kictanet/> | Youtube <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbcLVjnPtTGBEeYLGUb2Yow/videos> | TikTok <https://www.tiktok.com/@kictanet> | WhatsApp <https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaQsX4w6mYPIctLsGh1K>.

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Invitation to Ai Kenya Breakfast Summit 2.0 - Conversational Intelligence - 15th May 2025
by Alfred Ongere 16 Apr '25

16 Apr '25

Dear listers, I hope this message finds you well. As the pace of artificial intelligence (AI) adoption accelerates globally, Africa is actively shaping its own future through innovation, entrepreneurship, and community-driven technology. It is with great excitement that we invite you to the 2nd edition of the Ai Kenya Breakfast Summit — the region’s premier gathering for those building and deploying practical AI solutions. 📅 Date: 15th May 2025 📍 Venue: Mövenpick Hotel, Westlands, Nairobi 🔗 Register and view full summit topics and other details: https://bit.ly/aik15th Following the success of our first summit — attended by over 150 organizations — the 2nd Ai Kenya Breakfast Summit returns with even deeper insights, case studies, and cross-industry dialogue. Expect a power-packed half-day forum featuring C-suite executives, AI builders, investors, and digital transformation leaders from across East Africa. 🎥 Watch the recap from our first summit: https://youtu.be/csJShk04beQ Why Attend? ✅ Learn how companies are applying AI to hiring, customer engagement, marketing, and automation ✅ Connect with tech leaders and innovators reshaping Africa’s business landscape ✅ Explore solutions in Conversational Intelligence and Agentic AI ✅ Engage with senior leaders from organizations like Poa Internet, Moringa School, Intra Africa Assurance, Sama, SWAAT, and more who have already registered This is more than just a summit — it's a movement for business transformation and a platform to spark new partnerships, ideas, and strategies. If you’re thinking about your AI roadmap for 2025 and beyond, this is where you need to be. 🎟️ Register now and invite your colleagues: https://bit.ly/aik15th Let’s shape Africa’s AI future — together. Regards, Alfred Ongere, Founder & CEO , https://linktr.ee/AiKenya

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e-Citizen Platform Contract Raises Concerns
by Victor Kapiyo 16 Apr '25

16 Apr '25

A parliamentary investigation into the e-Citizen platform contract has revealed that the developers, M/S Webmasters Kenya Limited, Pesa Flow Limited, and Olive Tree Media Limited, can shut down the system if the contract is terminated. The contract, signed in May 2023, cannot be terminated early and grants the developers immunity from liability for data loss or system downtime. MPs are concerned about the lack of government oversight over revenue streams handled by the developers and the potential for critical government services to be disrupted. The government collected KES 100.8 billion in the financial year ending June 2024 through eCitizen. Read more: https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2025-04-16-inside-e-citizen-deal-granting-d… *Victor Kapiyo* Partner | *Lawmark Partners LLP* *Nine Planet Apartments, Nairobi | **Web: www.lawmark.co.ke <http://www.lawmark.co.ke/> * ==================================================== *“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” Zig Ziglar*

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Invitation to Public Policy PhD Programme Round Table – Explore Research Opportunities at Strathmore University Business Schoo
by Kevin Makanga 15 Apr '25

15 Apr '25

*Dear **Policy Enthusiast**,* We are pleased to invite you to a virtual PhD Programme Round Table hosted by Dr Kamau Wairuri at Strathmore University Business School. This interactive session is designed for prospective PhD students interested in learning more about our research areas, available opportunities, and the application process in Public Policy. *📅 Date: Wednesday, 23rd 2025**🕒 Time: 10am – 12 noon* *📍 Location: SBS, Madaraka Campus**🎯 Audience: Final-year undergraduates, master's students, or working professionals considering a PhD in Public Policy* During the round table, you’ll have the chance to: · Meet faculty members and potential PhD supervisors · Explore current research themes and projects · Ask questions about funding, admissions, and life as a PhD student · Connect with current PhD candidates in an informal setting Whether you're actively applying or just beginning to explore PhD options, we’d love to have you join the conversation. Please RSVP by replying to this email to book a slot. We look forward to seeing you there! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7JzWQT0mwY *Makanga Makanga* *Program Manager* Public Policy & Trade *Policies Change But Principles Never Do* *Email:* kmakanga(a)strathmore.edu <sbsinfo(a)strathmore.edu> *Direct Line:* +254 (0) 703 034 414 | *Ext:* 2414 *Mobile:* +254 (0) 719 573 527 *Location:* Ole Sangale Road, Madaraka, Nairobi, Kenya *Enquiries:* +254 (0) 703-034000/200/300 [image: Facebook] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8frEBGxJ6DnA8wEYUo0q/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> [image: Twitter] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8frDA8wXdyWcowxNMgw3/https%3A%2F%2Ftwi…> [image: LinkedIn] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8frra4J7HfwScgSbmnou/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> [image: Youtube] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fvPT3eYeBBd_QhFSSpd/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> [image: Instagram] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fvfnymE0xeMgAamTDqy/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> [image: WhatsApp] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fv7e60e_DLqow5jVJSy/https%3A%2F%2Fwa.…> [image: Tiktok] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fzt7bj-LREl5AssWbDw/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> ------------------------------ [image: Strathmore University Banner] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fvd3cMEh9S2wwf-_0mQ/https%3A%2F%2Fsbs…> ------------------------------ [image: Strathmore University Banner] <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fzz8wVBLTkVJwx3Twc3/https%3A%2F%2Fstr…> Visit Us <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fzSEunUdd4yzwHkhTC_/https%3A%2F%2Fwww…> Programme Calendar <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fv-vvOmRGbkdwZx2O0t/https%3A%2F%2Fdri…> Programme Portfolio <https://63cfdb2c.streaklinks.com/CY2X8fvysoHOV77C3go8CjkZ/https%3A%2F%2Fdri…> Contact Us <sbscommunication(a)strathmore.edu> ------------------------------ ------------------------------ ᐧ -- *Note: *All emails sent from Strathmore University are subject to Strathmore’s Email Terms & Conditions. Please click here <http://www.strathmore.edu/en/email-policy> to read the policy.* * * * "Visit our Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/StrathmoreUniversity>Page and Twitter <https://twitter.com/StrathU>Account".

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New VAT Rule for Kenyan ChatGPT Users + Digital Tax Policy Brief
by David Indeje 15 Apr '25

15 Apr '25

Dear Listers, Starting May 1, 2025, all Kenyan users of OpenAI tools like ChatGPT will be charged a 16% VAT. If you have a KRA PIN, make sure to update your tax info in your account for proper invoicing. Want to understand what this means for Kenya’s digital future? Download KICTANet’s Policy Brief on Digital Taxation in Kenya <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/?mdocs-file=50434>. Key recommendations for a fair, inclusive, and sustainable digital tax system, including: - Building trust through transparent policymaking - Simplifying digital tax processes for better compliance - Ensuring all voices are heard with a multistakeholder approach - Balancing innovation and fiscal needs - Promoting fairness in Kenya’s digital tax regime -- *Kind Regards,* *David Indeje* *@**KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> * Communications *_____________________________________ +254 (0) 711 385 945 | +254 (0) 734 024 856 KICTANet portals Connect With Us <https://linktr.ee/Kictanet> ______________________________________

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