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Join KICTANet Sessions at #DRIF25: Promoting Digital Ubuntu
by David Indeje 29 Apr '25

29 Apr '25

Dear Listers, KICTANet will host two sessions at the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF25) from April 29th to May 1st, 2025 in Zambia. This year's theme, *"Promoting Digital Ubuntu in Approaches to Technology,"* resonates with our commitment to fostering collaboration, inclusion, and shared humanity in Africa's digital transformation. We invite you to join us for the following sessions: *A. From Policy to Practice: Multistakeholder Dialogue on Implementing the AU Data Policy Framework* *Date: *Tuesday, April 29th, 2025 *Time:* 12:10 PM – 1:10 PM EAT *Location:* Room 4 The African Union Data Policy Framework (AUDPF) offers a continental blueprint for ethical and inclusive data governance. Recognizing that awareness and national adoption are progressing slowly, KICTANet is working to advance its domestication. This session aims to broaden awareness, encourage engagement, and promote the uptake of the AUDPF across African nations. This session will convene a diverse group of stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society representatives, business leaders, the tech community, academia, and youth advocates. *B. East and West – Advancing Inclusive ICT Policies in Africa* *Date:* Thursday, May 1st, 2025 *Time:* 12:10 PM – 1:10 PM EAT *Location:* Room 5 As Africa stands at a key moment in its digital transformation, persons with disabilities (PwDs) continue to encounter significant barriers to full digital inclusion. While East and West Africa have made progress in ICT accessibility, gaps persist in policy implementation, digital infrastructure, and public awareness. This discussion will examine the current state of digital accessibility in East and West Africa, highlighting existing policies and frameworks such as the African Disability Protocol and national ICT accessibility standards. For other sessions, explore https://drif.paradigmhq.org/agenda/ -- *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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Digital Rights: COTU says regulate social media
by David Indeje 27 Apr '25

27 Apr '25

Dear Listers. Do you agree with the call from Francis Atwoli, the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions, COTU? https://x.com/ntvkenya/status/1916469659571810719 -- *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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KICTANet's Input on Kenya's Draft Cybersecurity Strategy 2025
by David Indeje 27 Apr '25

27 Apr '25

Dear listers. KICTANet has submitted a memorandum <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/?mdocs-file=51569> to The National Computer and Cybercrime Coordination Committee with detailed feedback on the Draft Kenya Cybersecurity Strategy 2025-2029. Our analysis highlights key issues and offers proposals for improvement. Key concerns include: - Over-reliance on criminalization instead of balanced prevention and resilience. - Fragmented cybersecurity governance. - Need for stronger critical infrastructure protection. - Gaps in cyber incident response and management. - Cybersecurity skills shortage. - Lack of policies for emerging technologies. - Inefficient cybercrime reporting. - Need for stronger international collaboration. We recommend: - Harmonizing laws with international standards. - Improving inter-agency coordination. - Investing in capacity building and public awareness. - Establishing accessible reporting channels. - Leveraging existing expertise. KICTANet advocates for a balanced, inclusive, and coordinated approach to cybersecurity, ensuring the strategy is practical for all stakeholders. Find the complete memorandum. <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/?mdocs-file=51569> -- *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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Horizontal scaling of Light RAG in kubernetes - Case Study "LegAL"
by Benson Muite 25 Apr '25

25 Apr '25

Abstract: This case study examines the deployment of a scalable Light Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system designed for processing and querying Albanian legal data. The system leverages lightweight retrieval methods combined with generative AI to deliver accurate, context-aware responses from a comprehensive corpus of Albanian laws and legal documents. Deployed using Kubernetes, the architecture ensures high availability, scalability, and efficient resource management, making it well-suited for legal professionals and institutions seeking fast and reliable access to complex legal information. https://conf.linuxappsummit.org/event/7/sessions/14/ Talk should be available on Youtube stream at 11:00am EAT and can be watched afterwards: https://www.youtube.com/@linuxappsummit2688/streams Benson

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Invitation: Africa Tech Policy Summit Side-Event 8 May 2025
by Florence Awino 24 Apr '25

24 Apr '25

Dear Listers, As we count down to the Africa Tech Policy Summit, we are pleased to announce a side-event. KICTANet, in partnership with the Association of Progressive Communications (APC) through the Our Voices Our Future (OVOF) program, is hosting a workshop on Strategic Use of Technology for Advocacy: Safe Impactful Online Campaigning, Digital Storytelling, and Use of Technology. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 8 May 2025, from 08:00 to 17:00 in Nairobi. This interactive workshop will bring together human rights defenders, civil society organisations, citizen activists, community organisers, and trainers engaged in digital advocacy. The program will provide a deep dive into Kenya’s digital advocacy landscape, examining how digital technologies and power dynamics are shaping civic engagement. Participants will take part in hands-on sessions on digital storytelling for social change, learn practical strategies for digital safety and security, and develop skills for designing safe, inclusive, and impactful online campaigns. Please find the detailed concept <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/strategic-use-of-technology-for-advocacy-safe-im…> note for your reference. We have reserved* 10 slots for listers on a first-come, first-served basis.* If you are interested in attending, please send a message to fawino(a)kictanet.or.ke to express your interest. We look forward to your participation. -- *Regards,* *Florence A. Ouma* *KIGF MAG* *LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/flo-ouma-profile/>*

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Call for Volunteers: Shape the Future of Internet Governance at the Africa Tech Policy Summit 2025
by Neema Mujesia 24 Apr '25

24 Apr '25

[image: Call for youth Volunteers.png] Dear Listers, 🚀 Are you passionate about *Internet Governance in Kenya*? We are excited to invite you to be part of the *Africa Tech Policy Summit 2025* — a key platform where innovators, policy leaders, and digital rights advocates from across the continent come together to co-create inclusive and impactful tech policies. This is a great opportunity for students, young professionals, and experienced stakeholders to *volunteer* and contribute to important conversations around digital inclusion, online rights, and governance. 📢 *Call for Volunteers* We are currently seeking volunteers for the *Youth Internet Governance Forum *track happening at the summit. Whether you are looking to engage more deeply with policy issues or support the smooth running of the events, your involvement will make a real difference! 🗓️ The call for applications closes *Tuesday next week on **April 29, 2025, 23:59 EAT * 🔗 *Submit your application and learn more:* https://forms.gle/qR195YBSnSwTb6Du5 Let’s build an inclusive digital future—together. 💡 With Best Regards, *Neema Mujesia,* Communications Officer@*KICTANet* <https://www.kictanet.or.ke/> @NeemaMasitsa <https://x.com/NeemaMasitsa?t=j6CNaieXaw74Mleb0-7YcA&s=09>| LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/in/neema-masitsa-254350222/> ___________________________. KICTANet.or.ke <https://kictanet.or.ke/> | X <https://twitter.com/kictanet> | LinkedIn <https://www.linkedin.com/company/kictanet/> | Facebook <https://www.facebook.com/KICTANet/> | Instagram <https://www.instagram.com/kictanet/> | Youtube <https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbcLVjnPtTGBEeYLGUb2Yow/videos> | TikTok <https://www.tiktok.com/@kictanet> | WhatsApp <https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaQsX4w6mYPIctLsGh1K> KICTANet: *Transformed communities through the power of ICTs *

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Kenya Virtual Assets Service Providers Bill 2025
by Mwendwa Kivuva 24 Apr '25

24 Apr '25

The Virtual Assets Service Providers Bill 2025 in Kenya aims to regulate the operations of virtual asset service providers (VASPs) by requiring them to obtain licenses and adhere to anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) standards. The bill places VASPs under the oversight of the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), depending on their activities[1][2][3]. Key provisions include: - Licensing Requirements: VASPs must secure licenses and maintain physical offices in Kenya[2][3]. - Regulatory Oversight: CBK will oversee wallet providers and stablecoin issuers, while CMA will handle exchanges and tokenization platforms[3][6]. - Compliance Measures: Providers must implement robust cybersecurity and data protection systems[5][8]. - Penalties: Non-compliance can result in significant fines and imprisonment[1][8]. Sources [1] Treasury seeks identity of crypto owners in new bill - Business Daily https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/bd/economy/treasury-seeks-identity-of-c… [2] Bill to regulate VASPs lands before Kenyan lawmakers - Mariblock https://www.mariblock.com/bill-to-regulate-vasps-lands-before-kenyan-lawmak… [3] Kenya Proposes First Crypto Bill To Regulate Stablecoins - CIO Africa https://cioafrica.co/kenya-proposes-first-crypto-bill-to-regulate-stablecoi… [4] [PDF] The Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, 2025 - The National Treasury https://www.treasury.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/VIRTUAL-ASSET-SERVICE… [5] Kenya moves to regulate digital assets with new crypto bill https://techpoint.africa/news/kenya-to-regulate-digital-assets/ [6] Kenya seeks to regulate crypto with new Virtual Assets Bill https://itweb.africa/content/KPNG8v8NPgDM4mwD [7] Virtual Assets Service Providers Bill - CMS law https://cms.law/en/ken/news-information/draft-national-policy-on-virtual-as… [8] The Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, 2025 - CM Advocates LLP https://cmadvocates.com/en/blog/the-virtual-asset-service-providers-bill-20… [9] [PDF] The Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, 2025 - Parliament of Kenya http://www.parliament.go.ke/sites/default/files/2025-04/THE%20VIRTUAL%20ASS… [10] [PDF] Draft-Public-Notice-VIRTUAL-ASSETS-AND ... - The National Treasury https://www.treasury.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Draft-Public-Notice-V… [11] [PDF] blockchain association of kenya - BitcoinKE https://bitcoinke.io/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/VASP-Draft-Bill-Stamped-by-… [12] [PDF] Draft National Policy on Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service ... https://www.treasury.go.ke/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/DRAFT-NATIONAL-POLICY… [13] THE VIRTUAL ASSETS SERVICE PROVIDERS BILL 2024 https://www.oraro.co.ke/review-of-the-virtual-assets-service-providers-bill… [14] Draft National Policy on Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service ... https://www.dentonshhm.com/en/insights/alerts/2025/april/11/draft-national-… [15] Government of Kenya takes steps to regulate Virtual Asset Activities https://www.spencer-west.com/news/government-of-kenya-takes-steps-to-regula… [16] Protecting Kenyans from crypto scams: How the VASP Bill, 2025 ... https://www.cliffedekkerhofmeyr.com/news/publications/2025/Practice/Banking… [17] Kenya - Bowmans https://bowmanslaw.com/insights/kenya-the-virtual-assets-service-providers-… [18] How to Get a Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) License in Kenya https://masibolaw.co.ke/2025/04/22/how-to-get-a-virtual-asset-service-provi… [19] Treasury holds public participation on Virtual Assets Service ... https://www.kenyanews.go.ke/treasury-holds-public-participation-on-virtual-… Best Regards ______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwendwa-kivuva

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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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