- KICTANet - KICTANet

Evelyne Rono : Burial arrangements progress
by lordmwesh 14 Sep '11

14 Sep '11

Updates from meeting at All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi. Wednesday's attendance was good, with several PSs and Directors of government in attendance. Meetings are held on Wednesday 14th, 15th, 16th and 20th, at All Saints Cathedral from 6PM and meetings will continue at Home (Langata) all days. Obituary announcement will be made on Thursday 15th, 19th and 20th on Nation, and subsequent days. Kass FM have been making announcements twice daily, till the burial day on 24th (Eldoret -Cheptiret). An Harambee has tentatively been put on 21st(Wednesday) and the venue shall be communicated later. Church service will be held at NPC Karen on Thursday 22nd from 1PM. MPESA Number: Published in the Nation newspaper announcement on 15th Thursday. Burial will be held at Cheptiret Farm on Saturday 24th. 13KM from Eldoret, with Eldoret being 314KM from Nairobi. KICTAnet has been mentioned as potential guest of honor, among other heavyweights Rest in peace Mrs. Evelyn Rono, and heartfelt condolences to her Family and friends -- ______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva For Business Development Transworld Computer Channels Cel: 0722402248 twitter.com/lordmwesh transworldAfrica.com | Fluent in computing kenya.or.ke | The Kenya we know

1 0

Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 52, Issue 52
by Angela Nganga- Mumo 14 Sep '11

14 Sep '11

Hello, Heartfelt condolences to the family of Evelyne Rono. We will miss her dearly and her passion, warmth and commitment to the sector. Regards Angela Sent from my 4g iPhone powered by Orange On Sep 14, 2011, at 16:39, "kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke" <kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: > Send kictanet mailing list submissions to > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > You can reach the person managing the list at > kictanet-owner(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of kictanet digest..." > > > Today's Topics: > > 1. Re: Evelyne Rono: Update on Preparation Meetings (lordmwesh) > 2. Re: We have lost Evelyne Rono (charles nduati) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:27:08 +0300 > From: lordmwesh <lordmwesh(a)gmail.com> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Evelyne Rono: Update on Preparation Meetings > Message-ID: > <CAEhPqwoHMm+wiJD0ifVWr9Lp6pYsstO91Ebtbw62FEN9nE8Qmg(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" > > Very insightful observation Walubengo. Mpesa number Please? > > Heartfelt condolences to Baba Kipi, Kipi, and the entire Rono family > > > > On 14 September 2011 15:43, Walubengo J <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > > > @Fiona, > > > > also could be nice if you could get and confirm an MPESA line that folks > > could use to chip in for the funeral logistics. > > > > walu. > > > > --- On *Wed, 9/14/11, Judy Njogu <jgnjogu(a)Safaricom.co.ke>* wrote: > > > > > > From: Judy Njogu <jgnjogu(a)Safaricom.co.ke> > > > > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Evelyne Rono: Update on Preparation Meetings > > To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > > Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > Date: Wednesday, September 14, 2011, 2:59 PM > > > > Thanks Fiona. What time is the funeral service at NPC Karen? > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: kictanet-bounces+jgnjogu=safaricom.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<http://mc/compose?to=safaricom.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke>[mailto: > > kictanet-bounces+jgnjogu=safaricom.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<http://mc/compose?to=safaricom.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke>] > > On Behalf Of waudo siganga > > Sent: Wednesday, September 14, 2011 2:53 PM > > To: Judy Njogu > > Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' > > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Evelyne Rono: Update on Preparation Meetings > > > > Fiona - where is Cheptiret farm? - for early planning. > > > > Waudo > > > > On Wednesday, September 14, 2011 2:45 PM, "Fiona Asonga" > > <tespok(a)tespok.co.ke <http://mc/compose?to=tespok@tespok.co.ke>> wrote: > > > Dear Listers, > > > > > > The arrangements for Evelyne Rono's funeral are as follows: > > > > > > Funeral arrangements will be taking place from today, 14/09/2011, at All > > > Saints Cathedral. There will be a church service on Thursday, 22/09/2011, > > > at > > > NPC Karen. The burial will be on Saturday, 24/09/2011, at Cheptiret farm. > > > > > > Those who wish to assist with the funeral arrangements are welcome to > > > join > > > family and friends at All Saints Cathedral from today at 5:30pm. > > > > > > Kind regards, > > > > > > > > > Fiona Asonga > > > Chief Executive Officer > > > Telecommunications Service Providers Association of Kenya/ Kenya Internet > > > Exchange Point > > > Board Member Africa Internet Service Providers Association > > > Co-ordinator of Membership and Communication of the Africa Computer > > > Emergency Response Team > > > NRO Number Council? ? ? http://www.nro.net/about/number-council.html > > > ASO Address Council? ? http://aso.icann.org/ac/ > > > ? > > > > > 14th Floor, Bruce House > > > Standard Street > > > ? ? > > > Tel: +254 20 2245 036 > > > > > > Website: www.tespok.or.ke > > > > > > ???Industry voice in Telecommunications, Providing Policy and Direction > > > within the Industry and Government??? > > > > > > > > > > > > > > -----Original Message----- > > > From: kictanet-bounces+tespok=tespok.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<http://mc/compose?to=tespok.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > > [mailto:kictanet-bounces+tespok=tespok.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke<http://mc/compose?to=tespok.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke>] > > On > > > Behalf > > > Of John Kibowen > > > Sent: Tuesday, September 13, 2011 1:10 PM > > > To: tespok(a)tespok.co.ke <http://mc/compose?to=tespok@tespok.co.ke> > > > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > > > Subject: [kictanet] Evelyne Rono: Update on Preparation Meetings > > > > > > Hello listers. > > > I visited the family of the late Evelyne Rono last evening and I > > > conveyed the condolences received through this medium. A committee was > > > formed to spearhead the burial preparation and has agreed, among > > > others, that meetings will start on Wed Sep 14th at a city venue to be > > > communicated via media advert tomorrow (Wed). More details to follow. > > > > > > John Sergon > > > Dir ICT > > > Directorate of e-Gov > > > Office of the President > > > > > > > > > Sent from my iPhone > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > > kictanet mailing list > > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<http://mc/compose?to=kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/tespok%40tespok.co.ke > > > > > > > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform > > > for > > > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > > > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > > > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and > > > development. > > > > > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > > > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and > > > bandwidth, > > > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > > > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > > > > > > -- > > > This message has been scanned for viruses and > > > dangerous content by MailScanner, and is > > > believed to be clean. > > > > > > > > > -- > > > This message has been scanned for viruses and > > > dangerous content by MailScanner, and is > > > believed to be clean. > > > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > > kictanet mailing list > > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<http://mc/compose?to=kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emailsignet%40mailcan.… > > > > > > > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform > > > for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > > > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > > > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and > > > development. > > > > > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > > > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and > > > bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect > > > privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<http://mc/compose?to=kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jgnjogu%40safaricom.co… > > > > > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. > > > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > > > > > > ##################################################################################### > > NOTE: > > All emails sent from Safaricom Limited are subject to Safaricom?s Email > > Terms & Conditions. Please click here to read the policy. > > > > > > ##################################################################################### > > > > > > > > -----Inline Attachment Follows----- > > > > _______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<http://mc/compose?to=kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com > > > > > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. > > > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/lordmwesh%40gmail.com > > > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. > > > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > > > > > > -- > ______________________ > Mwendwa Kivuva > For > Business Development > Transworld Computer Channels > Cel: 0722402248 > twitter.com/lordmwesh > transworldAfrica.com | Fluent in computing > kenya.or.ke | The Kenya we know >

1 0

Evelyne Rono: Update on Preparation Meetings
by John Kibowen 14 Sep '11

14 Sep '11

Hello listers. I visited the family of the late Evelyne Rono last evening and I conveyed the condolences received through this medium. A committee was formed to spearhead the burial preparation and has agreed, among others, that meetings will start on Wed Sep 14th at a city venue to be communicated via media advert tomorrow (Wed). More details to follow. John Sergon Dir ICT Directorate of e-Gov Office of the President Sent from my iPhone

7 6

Open data initiative - how open is it?
by John Gitau 14 Sep '11

14 Sep '11

quick query on the governents open data: Is there any way i can get actual raw data from the government portal for me to run my own visualizer/ algorithm against? What sort of data is available? Can i get a look at that data? How open to analysis is it? How much of it is there, how fast are updates? For instance if i wanted to know the total number of students enrolled for kcse every year since 1990 to date, categorised by county, gender, nationality etc... how many Id's were issued month on month since 1990? How many hospitals have been built since 1990, expansions? How much was spent on health care vs education vs infrastructure vs education ? Or maybe if i wanted to track governements spend per province since 1990, broken down to each project, is that data available now? If not will it be available in 2020 .... Ie is it being captured in a manner that will allow us to make sense out of it, in ways we're probably not even thinking of yet? I imagine as a net/cit-izen this data would be quite useful, if digested and presented in a useful format. It would trigger interesting localized debates etc...So if its not available, how can this be availed? how can we access it? Gitau -- **Gitau

2 2

UN-IGF 2011 REGISTRATION
by David Wambua 14 Sep '11

14 Sep '11

Dear Listers, As you are aware Kenya will be hosting the sixth United Nations Internet Governance forum from 27 - 30 September 2011 at UNON offices in Gigiri. The last forum was held in Vilnius Lithuania in September 2010 and it marked the end of the initial five year period. There was overwhelming consensus on the need to continue with the forum which brings together stakeholders involved in managing the Internet from governments, civil Society, academia and the technical community on equal footing. Kenya has been an active participant, our very own East African Internet Governance Forum and Kenya Internet Governance forum has provided a model that has been studied and replicated across the world. This is the first time the meeting is being held in Sub-Saharan Africa and we urge all listers to register, the meeting will provide a great opportunity to network with peers from all continents involved in managing the Internet. Registration closed on the 9th of September 2011 but has been extended to 15th September 2011. Participation to the UN-IGF is free.To register please visit www.igf.or.ke (Host Country Website) or (www.intgovforum.org) to ensure that you get access to the venue. Please note that there will not be registrations Regards, ............................. David I. Wambua [W] www.kenic.or.ke dot KE for Every Name in Kenya! -- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by KeNIC MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. Kenya Network Information Center (KENIC)

1 0

Developing software developer NGO partnerships in Kenya
by Steven Clift 13 Sep '11

13 Sep '11

Since my speaking trip to Kenya a year ago I've been pondering how to create a software development connections that never sleep. In short, my U.S. based NGO uses a GPL open source online groups platform called: http://groupserver.org The platform is out of New Zealand and presents far better web participation options than the Mailman platform this e-mail list runs on for example. (But it still works well on e-mail.) Anyway, we have a very small budget each year that we contribute toward new features and I am considering trying to extend that budget further with some speculative feature the development that if it works, we'd contribute the code back the open source code base or have installed on our customized platform So, how do I best make the opportunity known to the right folks in Kenya (be they technology building companies, solo programmers, tech NGOs, extremely talented students looking for some real world experience, etc.)? The technology niche challenge is that we need someone who can: 1. Download and install the latest http://groupserver.org release on a server test they control. (Not that easy apparently based on Mailserver requirements and misc. dependencies) 2. Program in Python and Zope. (The tool has some legacy stuff as more code migrates from Zope into Python "eggs" (no, I really don't know what that means) 3. Likes to experiment and can help define the software requirements based on our rough outline of features (example experimental features we want to explore include adding moderation to specific topics, allowing people to set e-mail delivery by topic, geography based private messaging circles ( http://beneighbors.org ideas), embedding more external social media content elements based on links shared, search alerts, better invite others tools for inclusive outreach, creating creative ways to access old archives from old school YahooGroups like monthly indexes to auto tag clouds to better serach, developing interesting statistics/use information that generate "what's hot" links, etc.! 4. Be inspired by our democracy/community building mission and understand that our budget is extremely limited. My thought is that the test for applying should be at least to install a working version of GroupServer and show it to us. So, where do I post/circulate this opportunity? (Feel free to forward this as is. Steven Clift - http://stevenclift.com Executive Director - http://E-Democracy.Org Follow me - http://twitter.com/democracy New Tel: +1.612.234.7072

1 0

IGF Registration- Extended 15th September
by Judy Okite 13 Sep '11

13 Sep '11

Greetings Colleagues, if the registration for the IGF ,missed you....you still have a chance until the 15th of September.... please register, here; http://intgovforum.org/register/index.php Kind Regards, “To live is to choose. But to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for, where you want to go and why you want to get there.” Kofi Annan

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Evelyn R.I.P
by Mark Matunga 13 Sep '11

13 Sep '11

SHOCKING! Life is so short... cannot believe that Evelyn is no more... R.I.P my friend! ...God Bless, ============ Mark MATUNGA Microsoft East & Southern Africa (ESA) Phone +254 20 2868227 | Fax +254 20 272 2999 Mobile +254 711 237 251 or +254 735 102 809 Email: mmatunga(a)microsoft.com Office: I&M Bank Hse, 7th Floor, 2nd Ngong Ave, P.O Box 64736 - 0620 Nairobi, Kenya Get your Kiswahili Interface!! -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+mmatunga=microsoft.com(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+mmatunga=microsoft.com@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of Nancy Macharia Sent: 12 September 2011 8:42 PM To: Mark Matunga Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: [kictanet] Evelyn Ooh! Very shocking! Life is really short. Can't believe we won't have her smile, warmth and resourcefulness. Condolences to her family and friends. May her soul rest in peace. Nancy Macharia Tel: +254727746156Sent from my BlackBerry _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/mmatunga%40microsoft.c… The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.

2 1

Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 52, Issue 46
by Ory Okolloh 13 Sep '11

13 Sep '11

I had the pleasure of briefly meeting Evelyn during one of my trips to Nairobi this year. I sat next to her during the first open government launch planning session hosted at the ICT board. I had arrived late and the room was packed...she went out of her way to make sure I got a seat and it was a comfortable one (I was about 5 and a half months pregnant then). After the meeting we chatted about motherhood and kids - it was a brief conversation, but her warm personality radiated through. Very sad to hear about her sudden passing. Ory > Message: 1 > Date: Tue, 13 Sep 2011 07:31:56 +0000 > From: Grace Githaiga <ggithaiga(a)hotmail.com> > To: <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: [kictanet] Compiling all your messages in honour of Evelyn > Rono > Message-ID: <BAY151-W18A5AF06BE0B9D4BDA31BCB4050(a)phx.gbl> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > > > Good morning Listers > > KICTANet will be compiling all your sympathy and condolence messages and > present them to Evelyn Rono's family. And in her honour, we dedicate today > and tomorrow for listers to continue sending their condolences. > > With Kind Regards > GG > > > ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- > If you have the strength to survive, you have the power to succeed. Life is > all about choices we make depending upon the situation we are in. Go forth > and rule the World! > >

1 0

Compiling all your messages in honour of Evelyn Rono
by Grace Githaiga 13 Sep '11

13 Sep '11

Good morning Listers KICTANet will be compiling all your sympathy and condolence messages and present them to Evelyn Rono's family. And in her honour, we dedicate today and tomorrow for listers to continue sending their condolences. With Kind Regards GG ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you have the strength to survive, you have the power to succeed. Life is all about choices we make depending upon the situation we are in. Go forth and rule the World!

1 0

FW: allAfrica.com: Kenya: Nairobi Among Cities With Worst Jams
by Suraj Shah 13 Sep '11

13 Sep '11

Nairobians What we go through everyday is now tabulated globally: http://allafrica.com/stories/201109121655.html Suraj Shah

4 4

Evelyn
by Nancy Macharia 12 Sep '11

12 Sep '11

Ooh! Very shocking! Life is really short. Can't believe we won't have her smile, warmth and resourcefulness. Condolences to her family and friends. May her soul rest in peace. Nancy Macharia Tel: +254727746156Sent from my BlackBerry

1 0

Fare thee well - Evelyn
by robert yawe 12 Sep '11

12 Sep '11

You were a true friend, a caring sole and warm hearted. I already feel the void from your departure, no longer a phone call or an sms away. Never again to bump into you in the street or sit down for an unplanned cup of coffee. Who will I bounce my ideas and aspirations off. Fare thee well Evelyn. Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +25420201069

1 0

Fw: REQUEST TO POST REOI FOR THE DISPOSAL OF MONUSCO PROPERTY BY COMMERCIAL SALE
by duncan ondigo 12 Sep '11

12 Sep '11

Listers For anyone in Uganda and may be interested, please refer to the attached Kind regards, Duncan ----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Esther Nakkazi <nakkazie(a)yahoo.com> To: I-Network Uganda <i-network(a)dgroups.org> Sent: Friday, September 9, 2011 11:20 PM Subject: [i-network] Fw: REQUEST TO POST REOI FOR THE DISPOSAL OF MONUSCO PROPERTY BY COMMERCIAL SALE Some IT equipment. Esther Nakkazi | Freelance science Reporter, Researcher & Trainer Uganda-East Africa | Mobile+256772491950 nakkazie(a)yahoo.com | estanakkazi(a)gmail.com Blog; estanakkazi.blogspot.com | twitter: @Nakkazi |skype; estanakkazi ----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Michelle Nakabiito <nmichelle(a)ug.nationmedia.com> To: Nakkazi Esther <nakkazie(a)yahoo.com> Sent: Friday, 9 September 2011, 7:27 Subject: FW: REQUEST TO POST REOI FOR THE DISPOSAL OF MONUSCO PROPERTY BY COMMERCIAL SALE Esther, See forwarded Nice wkd Mich -----Original Message----- From: Michelle Nakabiito Sent: Friday, September 09, 2011 4:06 PM To: TEAstaff (UG) Cc: Richard Sebahiima Senkwale; Halima Subject: FW: REQUEST TO POST REOI FOR THE DISPOSAL OF MONUSCO PROPERTY BY COMMERCIAL SALE Importance: High Dear all, See attached items that are being disposed off at UN MONUSCO Entebbe Old Air port base. See if any can interest you. Regards for a nice weekend. Michelle -----Original Message----- From: aguma(a)un.org [mailto:aguma@un.org] Sent: Wednesday, September 07, 2011 5:45 PM To: Sebastian Elango; Michelle Nakabiito; michelle.nakabiito(a)gmail.com Cc: jensenc(a)un.org Subject: REQUEST TO POST REOI FOR THE DISPOSAL OF MONUSCO PROPERTY BY COMMERCIAL SALE Importance: High Dear Sebastian and Michelle, Greetings. Kindly find attached documents for your attention. (See attached file: REQUEST FOR EOI - NATION MEDIA pdf..pdf) (See attached file: Advert for commercial sale of property.doc) Please confirm receipt of this email. Best regards, -------------------------------------------------- Olivia Aguma (Ms) UN Procurement Division Regional Procurement Office ESB, Uganda P. O. Box 710 + (256) - 414 â€“ 705723 198 - 5723 (Inter-mission) Email: aguma(a)un.org DISCLAIMER: The information contained in or accompanying this e-mail is intended for the use of the stated recipient only. It may contain confidential, proprietary or legally privileged information. No confidentiality or privilege is waived or lost by any mistransmission. If you receive this message in error, please immediately delete it and all copies of it from your system, destroy any hard copies of it and notify the sender. You must not, directly or indirectly, use, disclose, distribute, print, or copy any part of this message if you are not the intended recipient. Any views or opinions presented herein are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the Nation Media Group. ‘To get all breaking news alerts send the word BREAK to 6667 or visit http://mobile.nation.co.ke to read news on your mobile phone.’ ##################################################################################### This e-mail message has been scanned for Viruses and Content and cleared by MailMarshal ##################################################################################### Read the mailing list rules - http://www.i-network.or.ug/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=189… Visit the I-Network website - www.i-network.or.ug Follow I-Network on Twitter: http://twitter.com/inetwork The I-Network Dgroup is a platform for ICT Knowledge Sharing ________________________________ Visit web site Click here to unsubscribe The email is intended only for the recipients. The owners of the Dgroups cannot be held responsible for the contents of the email message.

1 0

Invitation to connect on LinkedIn
by Joseph McDonald via LinkedIn 12 Sep '11

12 Sep '11

LinkedIn ------------ Joseph McDonald requested to add you as a connection on LinkedIn: ------------------------------------------ Benjamin, I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn. - Joseph Accept invitation from Joseph McDonald http://www.linkedin.com/e/u7xxdc-gsh91svv-3h/4_n5t6X_WQjXh2Z5g_n5tTYK1bLMph… View invitation from Joseph McDonald http://www.linkedin.com/e/u7xxdc-gsh91svv-3h/4_n5t6X_WQjXh2Z5g_n5tTYK1bLMph… -- (c) 2011, LinkedIn Corporation

1 0

Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 52, Issue 35
by James Nguo 12 Sep '11

12 Sep '11

My condolences to the family James Nguo (Ashoka Fellow) Regional Director Arid Lands Information Network Eastern Africa Groud floor AAYMCA Building, State Hse Crescent off State House Avenue | P.O. Box 10098 - 00100 | Nairobi - Kenya email jnguo(a)alin.net | tel +254 (20) 2731557 | fax +254 (20) 2737813| cel +254 733888164 web http://www.alin.net -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+jnguo=alin.net(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+jnguo=alin.net@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke Sent: 12 September 2011 12:18 To: James Nguo Subject: kictanet Digest, Vol 52, Issue 35 Send kictanet mailing list submissions to kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke You can reach the person managing the list at kictanet-owner(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of kictanet digest..." Today's Topics: 1. Re: We have lost Evelyne Rono (Henry Okatch) 2. Re: We have lost Evelyne Rono (Francis Hook) 3. Re: We have lost Evelyne Rono (Harry Delano) 4. Re: We have lost Evelyne Rono (melissa makokha) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Mon, 12 Sep 2011 12:02:54 +0300 From: Henry Okatch <hokatch(a)gmail.com> To: Paul Makobi <paul(a)adwest.net> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Subject: Re: [kictanet] We have lost Evelyne Rono Message-ID: <CAKqX=SC6H3PPFrmAyZuEYk5e_ir72zHOaJykRxxzfoKBofHz3A(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" My condolences to the family, colleagues and friends She will be greatly missed Rgds Henry On Mon, Sep 12, 2011 at 11:50 AM, Paul Makobi <paul(a)adwest.net> wrote: > Poleni sana > > > regards > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+paul=adwest.net(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:kictanet-bounces+paul=adwest.net@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf > Of > Esther Muchiri > Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 11:41 AM > To: paul(a)adwest.net > Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' > Subject: Re: [kictanet] We have lost Evelyne Rono > > Oh my! This is very sad news on a Monday morning! Everlyn was an ICT > champion and the gap she leaves behind is irreplaceable. May her soul rest > in eternal peace. Amen > > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+emuchiri=andestbites.com(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:kictanet-bounces+emuchiri=andestbites.com@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On > Behalf Of alice(a)apc.org > Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 9:58 AM > To: emuchiri(a)andestbites.com > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: [kictanet] We have lost Evelyne Rono > > Dear all, > We lost our colleague and friend Evelyne Rono, KDN, last night after a > short > illness. > Deepest condolences to her loved ones. > TESPOK will send us more on funeral arrangements. > > Alice Munyua > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emuchiri%40andestbites. > com > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and > development. > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/paul%40adwest.net > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and > development. > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/hokatch%40gmail.com > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > -- Warm Regards Henry Cell +254721899572 _______________________________________________________________________________ *Every morning in Africa, a gazelle wakes up, It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion or it will be killed. Every morning a lion wakes up, it knows it must outrun the slowest gazelle or it will starve to death. It doesn't matter whether you are a gazelle or a lion. When the sun comes up, you better start running. - In "The World is Flat" by Thomas L. Friedman*

1 0

Re: [kictanet] We have lost Evelyne Rono
by Kanja Waruru 12 Sep '11

12 Sep '11

This is truly very sad news I knew Evelyn well and may the good Lord rest her soul in peace. Regards. Kanja Sent from my iPad On Sep 12, 2011, at 10:55 AM, godera(a)skyweb.co.ke wrote: Listers, I received this news early this morning in shock. Evelyn was a wonderful friend and colleague in the industry. May God rest her soul in eternal peace. How I will miss Evelyn's cheerful spirit. May God comfort her family during this diificult time. Gilda Quoting Walubengo J <jwalu(a)yahoo.com>: Oh dear! may her Soul rest in peace. walu. --- On Mon, 9/12/11, alice(a)apc.org <alice(a)apc.org> wrote: From: alice(a)apc.org <alice(a)apc.org> Subject: [kictanet] We have lost Evelyne Rono To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Date: Monday, September 12, 2011, 9:57 AM Dear all, We lost our colleague and friend Evelyne Rono, KDN, last night after a short illness. Deepest condolences to her loved ones. TESPOK will send us more on funeral arrangements. Alice Munyua _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. ------------------------------------------------- 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 Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kanjawaruru%40yahoo.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.

1 0

Registrar of Companies computerisation
by robert yawe 12 Sep '11

12 Sep '11

Hi, I believe we had been informed on this list that the registrar of companies had installed a new electronic system. Last week I asked my company secretary to get us a CR12 which is a document confirming the current directors of a company that is issued by the registrar of companies. He told me that it normally takes 3 days, I then mentioned to him that the department had been computerised and I that it should not take more than a day to get the document. I have spoken to him this morning and he told me that they where informed that the process now takes 1 week up from the previous 3 days. My question to e-government and KICTB, the department of the registrar of companies computerised or not and if it is exactly which functions have been completed? Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

11 20

Re: [kictanet] CCK Press Release - Consultative meeting on the phase out of use of counterfeit mobile handsets
by Walubengo J 12 Sep '11

12 Sep '11

fyi, walu. --- On Fri, 9/9/11, Wambua, Christopher <Wambua(a)cck.go.ke> wrote: S 9th September 2011 NEWS EDITOR RE: CONSULTATIVE MEETING ON THE PHASE OUT OF COUNTERFEIT MOBILE HANDSETS The Commission today held a consultative meeting with the four mobile network operators, relevant government agencies (i.e. Kenya Bureau of Standards, Anti-Counterfeit Agency, Office of the President – Kenya Police and NSIS - and the Kenya Revenue Authority), Article 19 and equipment manufacturer Nokia to discuss the way forward in respect to the phase out of use of counterfeit mobile handsets in Kenya. It was observed that use of counterfeit handsets denies holders of Intellectual Property rights of their legal right to benefit from the fruits of their innovations. It also exposes consumers to health and security risks, and denies Government of revenue. The meeting, which was quite fruitful, resolved as follows: The phase out of use of counterfeit handsets shall be done in a coordinated manner to involve all stakeholders including government agencies, industry players, consumers and equipment manufacturers. The participating government agencies re-affirmed their commitment to continue working together to stem the importation and use of counterfeit handsets in the country in an effective and sustainable manner. There is need for public awareness to be undertaken to sensitize consumers on the rationale behind the phasing out of counterfeit mobile handsets, the dangers associated with use of counterfeits, and the tentative deadline for deactivation of counterfeit mobile phones. To stem build up in the number of counterfeit mobile handsets in the market, there is need to stop the activation of new SIM cards using counterfeit mobile handsets. In this regard, it was resolved that no new SIM cards would be allowed to operate in counterfeits handsets tentatively as from 30th September 2011. A meeting of the technical teams from the four mobile operators, equipment manufacturers and CCK shall be held next Wednesday to deliberate on the suitability of this date. Use of counterfeit handsets shall be phased out of the market by the end of the year. Consumers using counterfeit mobile handsets therefore have (tentatively) up to 31st December 2011 to replace their mobile phones or risk de-activation. The actual date shall be confirmed during the meeting of the technical team next week. Issued by: John Omo For: DIRECTOR-GENERAL

3 2

Re: [kictanet] Queries about eLimu portal
by Gakiria 11 Sep '11

11 Sep '11

Dear Harry, Am surprised the copied addresses did not appear in my email. I have forwarded your reply to the two gentlemen and strongly advised them to subscribe to the list so that they can engage (And be engaged) directly. It might also be worthwhile to engage with Mr Temba, head of the ICT integration in education team at the ministry of basic education HQ. Andrew On Sunday, 11 September 2011, Gakiria <gakiria(a)gmail.com> wrote: > Hi Gitonga / Reuben, > > I had copied you in my last email to the Kictanet list as below . > There are genuine concerns about eLimu Portal and some suggestions for > improvement which i think will best be addressed by your ICT > Integration team. My suggestion is that you subscribe to the Kictanet > list so that you are able to get first hand information on issues > touching on your areas of concern and also give you a platform to > address any queries. > > In case you feel you dont desire to join the list,i will be happy to > serve as your intermediary to convey information to and from > yourselves. > > Kictanet stands for Kenya ICT action network and comprises of private > sector, civil society and Government actors involved in advocacy for > ICT in Kenya. It is a credible and influential forum and there is more > good than harm for your team to engage with them. > > I was part of the founding team as a rep of eGovernment in 2004. > > Regards > Andrew > > Regards > Andrew > > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: Harry Delano > Date: Saturday, 10 September 2011 > Subject: Re: Queries about eLimu portal > To: Gakiria > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > > > > > Andrew, > > We can't see the copied addresses. It would be advisable for content to be > uploaded to > go through proof reading/verification at the drafting/production stage > before requisite > authorization is granted for online publication. We suggest this becomes a > standard that > should be ingrafted into the quality control process of every institution > going online. > > Regards, > Harry > > -----Original Message----- > From: kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > [mailto:kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On > Behalf Of Gakiria > Sent: Saturday, September 10, 2011 3:25 PM > To: harry(a)comtelsys.co.ke > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Queries about eLimu portal > > Dear Ory, > > Am copying in Gitonga and a gentleman from KIE (Reuben). I think they are > better placed to respond. > > Gitonga / Reuben, > Below some queries on eLimu Portal. It might be a good idea to Join > Kictanet. . > > Gakiria > > On Saturday, 10 September 2011, Ory Okolloh <ookolloh(a)gmail.com> wrote: >> >> >> Andrew, >> Thanks for the updated url. Can your contact at the Ministry of Education > (Getonga?) please update us on when the numerous typos on the Elimu site > will be fixed. >> >> Ory >> >> >> >> >> Message: 2 >> Date: Sat, 10 Sep 2011 13:10:29 +0300 >> From: Muchiri Nyaggah <muchiri(a)semacraft.com> >> To: "Rad!" <conradakunga(a)gmail.com> >> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Fwd: Elimu Portal URL >> Message-ID: >> >> <CADdppc1vjGb_JdLXn6e+=LEfNdiF9FAXcPiLGVq6sfHqfXL-0g(a)mail.gmail.com> >> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" >> >> It is very simple to ensure the website can be reached with or without >> the preceding 'www'. If statehousekenya.go.ke works with both, >> ict.go.ke should too and so should elimuportal.net >> >> >> >> Kind regards, >> >> >> >> *Muchiri* Nyaggah >> >> Principal Partner >> >> @muchiri >> >> +254 722 506400 >> >> Semacraft.com >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> On Sat, Sep 10, 2011 at 11:52 AM, Rad! <conradakunga(a)gmail.com> wrote: >> >>> For a site ostensibly for teachers the spelling and grammar needs a >>> little more work. Some of the errors are breathtaking. >>> >>> On Sat, Sep 10, 2011 at 11:06 AM, Gakiria <gakiria(a)gmail.com> wrote: >>> >>>> Dear Listers, >>>> Below the correct address >>>> >>>> Gakiria >>>> >>>> ---------- Forwarded message ---------- >>>> From: Angelo Kiogora Gitonga >>>> Date: Saturday, 10 September 2011 >>>> Subject: [kictanet] Elimu Portal Down? >>>> To: Gakiria >>>> >>>> >>>> Type http://www.elimuportal.net/ and you shall be on the portal >>>> >>>> >>>> -- >>>> Angelo K. Gitonga >>>> Senior Education Officer, Ministry of Education ICT4E and ICT >>>> Integration Team P.O. Box 42264-00200 Nairobi Kenya >>-- > Gakiria Andrew > Coordinator > Kenya eLearning Centre > Nairobi, KENYA > -- Gakiria Andrew Coordinator Kenya eLearning Centre Nairobi, KENYA

1 0

PROVIDERS CONTRACT WITH SOFTWARE VENDORS
by Titus Ngeno 10 Sep '11

10 Sep '11

Dear All, As we all continue to embrace Digital Home I thought I share a some background of software vendors. I have been a software developer then an architect and now a salesman... Live it all When providers contract with vendors, they expect certain products and services. This much is obvious. The issue presented here arises as a result of all the distributing, bundling, packaging and rebadging of products. Vendor A may offer Vendor B's product alongside its own products. In this case, Vendor A is a distributor (and usually a reseller) of Vendor B's product. Typically this type of collaboration exists when the two products perform related tasks for the provider. Like ice and your favorite drink, each is good, but together they are great! Vendor X may offer a product called "IndiaOpenEMR" that also has some type of label like, "powered by InsureWare" or something to that effect. This probably means Vendor X has InsureWare's software embedded in its product, and the "powered by" refers to this fact. In this case, Vendor X is sublicensing technology developed by InsureWare. In each situation, the provider gets the package deal and the functionality it is seeking, which would not be possible with only Vendor A or Vendor B in the first instance or with only Vendor X in the second. So everyone wins, right? Hopefully, but maybe not. When things go well and you have a great prime vendor that really steps up and fills that role, life is good. The provider gets precisely what they signed up for. They have a single point of contact for resolution of problems with any of the products involved. But what happens when things go wrong? Are the responsibilities and procedures clearly set out? Key contract components that must be addressed fully by all vendors involved include support obligations, copyright / patent protection, indemnification, and liability provisions, to name a few. How does the provider determine exactly what they are getting and precisely whom they are dealing with? One simple way to determine the "who" part is to look for the warranty of ownership. Something like, "Vendor warrants that it owns the software." Once you find that section, really analyze it. It is probably not more than a sentence or two, three tops. If the vendor warrants that it is the developer and sole owner of the technology being licensed, then you are dealing with a single vendor and its products. This is the cleanest, most simple scenario. (Quick sidebar here: it must be a warranty, not a representation. Warranties have certain protections and remedies that representations do not.) If the vendor warrants that it is the owner of the technology OR that it has the right to license it, that is your red flag duct taped to a flashing light. This is not bad, but it means the product contains or is packaged with third-party software. You need to be aware of this and you must obtain certain crucial contract terms for your protection. The best-case scenario (keeping in mind that there is another vendor involved that is not a party to your agreement, which is the reason behind this article) is a warranty from the vendor that you are contracting with that it has warranties of ownership, operation, and error correction (for example) from the other vendor. This is critical because it can then be used to back up the same warranties from your selected vendor to you. The biggest warning flag you could ever encounter is where there is a disconnect in the protection(s) offered. If the vendor warrants that "all software is great and works fine and they will fix everything, but this warranty does not apply to a certain line item or product," then you have a problem. What happens if there is a failure with the excluded software? If you have no answer while reviewing contract language, just imagine the discomfort you will feel if your system is down and all indications point to the excluded product. OK, stay with me here. All the legal stuff aside, what those in IT really want to know is what happens if there is a problem with the products. As stated before, with a solid prime vendor you are in good shape. But what about those unfortunate situations where fingers get worn out from all the pointing? To try and avoid heartburn later, fix the contract up front. Try this simple exercise. Remember connect the dots, those partially finished pictures in coloring books with numbered dots? Connect them in numerical order and complete the picture! Give it a try with your software agreement. If you have more than one vendor involved, just imagine a system crash, and then try to connect the dots to all the vendors, especially the vendor behind the scenes. Do you have adequate warranty protection? Do procedures exist for escalating a software problem to the correct level at the vendor? Can you get to the vendor at all?? Make clear for each product included, or component thereof, which vendor is responsible for support, updates, fixes, etc. Make certain that you have contract pathways to obtain that service. Assume vendor A is first point of contact. When the problem ultimately is identified as residing in Vendor B's product, then what? It may be that the responsibility remains with Vendor A, but it also may be that Vendor A is only responsible for "Level 1 Support" and then you go to Vendor B for the difficult stuff. Ideally Vendor A stays involved and shepherds the issue through to resolution, sort of like a new car warranty. Inga's Cadillac dealership did not build the car, but when the car breaks down, you take it back to Inga's to get it fixed. Inga's then takes care of the work required and is backed up by the manufacturer. Taking the car analogy a little further, in terms of your contracted vendors, while you may know who is in the driver's seat, you may not know who else is along for the ride. It could be an awesome two-seat Tesla roadster with two great vendors, or it could be the mud-covered SUV with a bunch of buddies all saying they work together just fine (and the driver is wearing really dark shades.) Due diligence in contracting pays off, and lack of diligence can really sting you later. Vendors, please make it clear. You know best what is going on. Put it right out there. In 2006 I lived in UK for 1 year working for a company called Cerner, I still remember a situation where an executive at a monster hospital chain felt something had been "snuck in." In reality it was not, but the impression stuck hard and fast in this executive's mind and we had to face extra scrutiny for several years to follow. Kind of like a dog that gets whacked by something at one of those birthday parties where twenty kids are running around screaming and things get zany and someone hands a whiffle ball bat to the kids for the piñata. Anyway, the dog gets whacked (accidentally, of course) and never forgets the kid that did it. Don't be the kid with the bat! Tangential issue: get a warranty that states no other software is required, from your prime vendor or any other vendor, for operation of the software products being licensed. If other software is required but not included, require a listing in the agreement of all such products. Failure of your prime vendor to include something on this list should mean the vendor has to pony up and pay for it. That will bring all the fine details right to the top. Finally, once you get everything above all set, make sure that all your hard work does not blow away in the wind because a vendor subcontracts work or assigns the agreement to another vendor. Include provisions prohibiting assignment or subcontracting without the customer's agreement. That way you know what you are getting, from whom you are getting it, and that things will stay that way unless you agree otherwise. Please take care in your interpretation of this article. I have been involved in countless good situations involving multiple vendors and very happy customers. When the provider does get a good prime vendor that truly takes on its role, you win. No question it works well in the right situations. My point is to be diligent and try to avoid bad situations by at least having good contract language on your side. The combination of a poorly performing vendor and weak or lousy contractual support will really ruin your day. Big takeaways: * Contract language, warranties, and obligations should be consistent as applied to all products and vendors involved, even if designated to a prime vendor. Watch for disconnects in supporting language. * The contract should map out clearly the support chain and obligations of the vendors involved, again, even if designated to a prime vendor. * Require listing all software required for operation of the products being licensed and obligation for the vendor to provide whatever they failed to list. * Prohibit assignment and subcontracting by the vendors without your consent. Just two cents! Titus Ngeno ________________________________ The information contained in this message may be CONFIDENTIAL and is for the intended addressee only. Any unauthorized use, dissemination of the information, or copying of this message is prohibited. If you are not the intended addressee, please notify the sender immediately and delete this message.

1 0

Fwd: Elimu Portal URL
by Gakiria 10 Sep '11

10 Sep '11

Dear Listers, Below the correct address Gakiria ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Angelo Kiogora Gitonga Date: Saturday, 10 September 2011 Subject: [kictanet] Elimu Portal Down? To: Gakiria Type http://www.elimuportal.net/ and you shall be on the portal -- Angelo K. Gitonga Senior Education Officer, Ministry of Education ICT4E and ICT Integration Team P.O. Box 42264-00200 Nairobi Kenya Tel: +254 725 851659 -- Gakiria Andrew Coordinator Kenya eLearning Centre Nairobi, KENYA

4 3

Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 52, Issue 22
by Ory Okolloh 10 Sep '11

10 Sep '11

Andrew, how are people supposed to remember this address? http://www.elimuportal.net/?and <http://www.elimuportal.net/?and>I'm presuming that the correct address should actually be elimuportal.net and not the re-direct you sent (which still has the spelling errors etc0 On Sat, Sep 10, 2011 at 10:25 AM, <kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke>wrote: > Send kictanet mailing list submissions to > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > To subs > ------------------------------ > > Message: 3 > Date: Sat, 10 Sep 2011 11:06:40 +0300 > From: Gakiria <gakiria(a)gmail.com> > To: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: [kictanet] Fwd: Elimu Portal URL > Message-ID: > <CAPeaXbOe3MB904PrpV1zFz_HLKhoPBKUPjusJu+dBo+q-EqVOQ(a)mail.gmail.com > > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1 > > Dear Listers, > Below the correct address > > Gakiria > > ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > From: Angelo Kiogora Gitonga > Date: Saturday, 10 September 2011 > Subject: [kictanet] Elimu Portal Down? > To: Gakiria > > > Type http://www.elimuportal.net/?and you shall be on the portal > > > -- > Angelo K. Gitonga > Senior Education Officer, Ministry of Education > ICT4E and ICT Integration Team > P.O. Box 42264-00200 > Nairobi Kenya > Tel: +254 725 851659 > > > > -- > Gakiria Andrew > Coordinator > Kenya eLearning Centre > Nairobi, KENYA > > > > ------------------------------ > >

2 1

Re: [kictanet] Queries about eLimu portal
by Gakiria 10 Sep '11

10 Sep '11

Dear Ory, Am copying in Gitonga and a gentleman from KIE (Reuben). I think they are better placed to respond. Gitonga / Reuben, Below some queries on eLimu Portal. It might be a good idea to Join Kictanet. . Gakiria On Saturday, 10 September 2011, Ory Okolloh <ookolloh(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > > Andrew, > Thanks for the updated url. Can your contact at the Ministry of Education (Getonga?) please update us on when the numerous typos on the Elimu site will be fixed. > > Ory > > > > > Message: 2 > Date: Sat, 10 Sep 2011 13:10:29 +0300 > From: Muchiri Nyaggah <muchiri(a)semacraft.com> > To: "Rad!" <conradakunga(a)gmail.com> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Fwd: Elimu Portal URL > Message-ID: > <CADdppc1vjGb_JdLXn6e+=LEfNdiF9FAXcPiLGVq6sfHqfXL-0g(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > It is very simple to ensure the website can be reached with or without the > preceding 'www'. If statehousekenya.go.ke works with both, ict.go.ke should > too and so should elimuportal.net > > > > Kind regards, > > > > *Muchiri* Nyaggah > > Principal Partner > > @muchiri > > +254 722 506400 > > Semacraft.com > > > > > > > > > > > > > > On Sat, Sep 10, 2011 at 11:52 AM, Rad! <conradakunga(a)gmail.com> wrote: > >> For a site ostensibly for teachers the spelling and grammar needs a little >> more work. Some of the errors are breathtaking. >> >> On Sat, Sep 10, 2011 at 11:06 AM, Gakiria <gakiria(a)gmail.com> wrote: >> >>> Dear Listers, >>> Below the correct address >>> >>> Gakiria >>> >>> ---------- Forwarded message ---------- >>> From: Angelo Kiogora Gitonga >>> Date: Saturday, 10 September 2011 >>> Subject: [kictanet] Elimu Portal Down? >>> To: Gakiria >>> >>> >>> Type http://www.elimuportal.net/ and you shall be on the portal >>> >>> >>> -- >>> Angelo K. Gitonga >>> Senior Education Officer, Ministry of Education >>> ICT4E and ICT Integration Team >>> P.O. Box 42264-00200 >>> Nairobi Kenya >>> Tel: +254 725 851659 >>> >>> >>> >>> -- >>> Gakiria Andrew >>> Coordinator >>> Kenya eLearning Centre >>> Nairobi, KENYA >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> k > **************************************** > > -- Gakiria Andrew Coordinator Kenya eLearning Centre Nairobi, KENYA

1 0

Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 52, Issue 25
by Ory Okolloh 10 Sep '11

10 Sep '11

Andrew, Thanks for the updated url. Can your contact at the Ministry of Education (Getonga?) please update us on when the numerous typos on the Elimu site will be fixed. Ory Message: 2 > Date: Sat, 10 Sep 2011 13:10:29 +0300 > From: Muchiri Nyaggah <muchiri(a)semacraft.com> > To: "Rad!" <conradakunga(a)gmail.com> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Fwd: Elimu Portal URL > Message-ID: > <CADdppc1vjGb_JdLXn6e+=LEfNdiF9FAXcPiLGVq6sfHqfXL-0g(a)mail.gmail.com > > > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" > > It is very simple to ensure the website can be reached with or without the > preceding 'www'. If statehousekenya.go.ke works with both, ict.go.keshould > too and so should elimuportal.net > > > > Kind regards, > > > > *Muchiri* Nyaggah > > Principal Partner > > @muchiri > > +254 722 506400 > > Semacraft.com > > > > > > > > > > > > > > On Sat, Sep 10, 2011 at 11:52 AM, Rad! <conradakunga(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > > For a site ostensibly for teachers the spelling and grammar needs a > little > > more work. Some of the errors are breathtaking. > > > > On Sat, Sep 10, 2011 at 11:06 AM, Gakiria <gakiria(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > > >> Dear Listers, > >> Below the correct address > >> > >> Gakiria > >> > >> ---------- Forwarded message ---------- > >> From: Angelo Kiogora Gitonga > >> Date: Saturday, 10 September 2011 > >> Subject: [kictanet] Elimu Portal Down? > >> To: Gakiria > >> > >> > >> Type http://www.elimuportal.net/ and you shall be on the portal > >> > >> > >> -- > >> Angelo K. Gitonga > >> Senior Education Officer, Ministry of Education > >> ICT4E and ICT Integration Team > >> P.O. Box 42264-00200 > >> Nairobi Kenya > >> Tel: +254 725 851659 > >> > >> > >> > >> -- > >> Gakiria Andrew > >> Coordinator > >> Kenya eLearning Centre > >> Nairobi, KENYA > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> k > **************************************** >

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Registrar of Companies computerisation
by Titus Ngeno 10 Sep '11

10 Sep '11

Dear my fellow Kenyans and Friends, I am new here and I don't know the rules of the house. But here is my two cents. ICT board will have to come up with business registration database with aggregated information with fields on specific business identification number, name, business activities, geographical location. Then find ways to connect with Kenya social security fund and Kenya Revenue Authority using a single Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) coupled with The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics . This maybe be a little aggressive but with all these features in place we can even start implementing online registration where one can register a company in the comfort of their homes or at any internet café without necessarily going into any office thus more investors in Kenya and more wealth. But put in mind EFT online payment system will be critical to all this. In short to get to three days Registration it will take some hard work and aggressive implementation of new technologies and integration of Kenya social security fund and Kenya Revenue Authority for a start. Lastly there must be a reason why Rwanda is rank number 58 in the world as the best place to country to invest in Africa and Kenya dropped from 94 to 98. Rgds, Titus Ngeno Director of Business Development - Africa Region Ebix, Inc. Direct 1 678-242-2875 | Fax 1 305 284 7440 | Cell 1 913 207 8107 Email titus.ngeno(a)ebix.com<mailto:titus.ngeno@ebix.com> | Web www.ebix.com<http://www.ebix.com/> [Description: Description: cid:image001.png@01CBE25C.0640F4E0] ________________________________ The information contained in this message may be CONFIDENTIAL and is for the intended addressee only. Any unauthorized use, dissemination of the information, or copying of this message is prohibited. If you are not the intended addressee, please notify the sender immediately and delete this message.

1 0

IGF- September 27-30, 2011
by Grace Githaiga 09 Sep '11

09 Sep '11

Listers, For those who have not registered, please note that registration closes today 9th of September 2011. To register please visit www.igf.or.ke (Host Country Website) or (www.intgovforum.org) Participation at the IGF is free with all teas and lunches provided but registration is a requirement. Kind Regards GG ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you have the strength to survive, you have the power to succeed. Life is all about choices we make depending upon the situation we are in. Go forth and rule the World!

1 0

Meza resigns from Airtel
by Harry Hare 09 Sep '11

09 Sep '11

Interesting happenings herehttp://bit.ly/ohQXmB Meza is back in Tanzania at Vodacom, and will probably be forced to work in partnership with Safaricom in Kenya a company he has competed with ferociously in the so dubbed "mobile wars". Harry

5 4

The Sixth Internet Governance Forum 27 -30 September 2011
by Barrack Otieno 09 Sep '11

09 Sep '11

Listers, As you are aware Kenya will be hosting the sixth United Nations Internet Governance forum from 27 - 30 September 2011. The last forum was held in Vilnius Lithuania in September 2010 and it marked the end of the initial five year period. There was overwhelming consensus on the need to continue with the forum which brings together stakeholders involved in managing the Internet from governments, civil Society, academia and the technical community on equal footing. Kenya has been an active participant, our very own East African Internet Governance Forum and Kenya Internet Governance forum has provided a model that has been studied and replicated across the world. This is the first time the meeting is being held in Sub-Saharan Africa and we urge all listers to register, the meeting will provide a great opportunity to network with peers from all continents involved in managing the Internet. Registration closes today the 9th of September 2011. To register please visit www.igf.or.ke (Host Country Website) or ( www.intgovforum.org) Thank you Kind Regards -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254-20-2498789 Skype: barrack.otieno

1 0

Elimu Portal Down?
by Ory Okolloh 08 Sep '11

08 Sep '11

So Elimu portal has been down since the typo discussion and Andrea's piece in the Star, anyone know if this is at least an effort to fix the issues rather than kill the site completely? http://elimuportal.net/ Best, Ory

1 0

Kenyan doctors perform the country's first distant surgery
by Harry Hare 08 Sep '11

08 Sep '11

I think congratulations are in order for the Agha Khan Hospital staff and management for achieving this first, check this out http://bit.ly/qOV24X Harry

1 0

PesaPal recognised
by robert yawe 08 Sep '11

08 Sep '11

It is said that a prophet is never recognised in his home village, I request that we prove this statement wrong by making sure that we not only recognise our local hero's but also fete and encourage them. Below is a mention of PesaPal from across the seas, http://read.bi/r94lVQ, yet there have been almost no local mention or analysis of what the organisation and its products can achieve in our local media. Kudos Liko and the gang you must be doing something right. Regards PS. It is my personal prayer that PesaPal will go from being a startup , vvvrooooom, to cruising speed and avoid lingering in the idling stage. (I could't resist to the opportunity to play Lucifer's Advocate) Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696a

2 1

Fwd: [i-network] UK Domain Name Registrar Considers New Rules for Domain Name Takedowns
by Barrack Otieno 06 Sep '11

06 Sep '11

Interesting times ahead, seems like there might be greater need for governments to play an active role in management of the Internet going by recent events, first we had the EU recommendations, now nominet. ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Charles Batmubuze <cbatambuze(a)nabotu.or.ug> Date: Tue, Sep 6, 2011 at 1:33 AM Subject: [i-network] UK Domain Name Registrar Considers New Rules for Domain Name Takedowns To: I-Network Uganda <i-network(a)dgroups.org> thought this would be of interest to some ... Nominet, the British domain name register for .uk domain names, has requested comments on proposed rules concerning “Domain names used in connection with criminal activity.” The rules would include “an expedited process to suspend domain names.” read more here: http://infojustice.org/archives/5336 Read the mailing list rules - http://www.i-network.or.ug/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=189… the I-Network website - www.i-network.or.ug Follow I-Network on Twitter: http://twitter.com/inetworkThe I-Network Dgroup is a platform for ICT Knowledge Sharing ------------------------------ Visit web site <http://dgroups.org/iicd/i-network/> Click here <leave.i-network(a)dgroups.org> to unsubscribe The email is intended only for the recipients. The owners of the Dgroups cannot be held responsible for the contents of the email message. -- Barrack O. Otieno Afriregister Ltd (Kenya) www.afrire <http://www.afriregister.com>gister.bi, www.afriregister.com<http://www.afriergister.com> <http://www.afriregister.com>ICANN accredited registrar +254721325277 +254-20-2498789 Skype: barrack.otieno

1 0

Fwd: Mobile money conference - Nairobi 2012
by Mwololo Tim 06 Sep '11

06 Sep '11

Dear all, Attached is a call for a conferece on mobile money (AMMREC 2012) to be held in Nairobi next year. Please circulate to appropriate networks and submit an abstract before 31st Oct 2011, if you can and have an interest in this area. Best wishes tim waema

1 0

US Posta Approaching Bankruptcy
by Wamuyu Gatheru 06 Sep '11

06 Sep '11

Another one nearly bites the dust - http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/05/business/in-internet-age-postal-service-s… Its inability to turn around includes unionised employees with expensive health care, laws that do not allow them to trade in some areas like selling cellphones and insurance. They are considering distributing wine and beer (!), advertising on their premises and vehicles and doing last-mile deliveries for UPS/Fedex. One politician argues that a great institution that survived the entry of the telegraph and the telephone should survive the digital era as well. Wamuyu

2 1

EC policy papers on ICANN
by alice＠apc.org 05 Sep '11

05 Sep '11

http://news.dot-nxt.com/2011/08/31/ec-papers-analysisAnalysis: EC policy papers on ICANN by Kieren McCarthy | 31 Aug 2011 | For those that have followed the interplay between the organizations that maintain and evolve the Internet and the world’s governments, this series of six policy papers from the European Commission is likely to provoke the same despairing response: Here we go again. Together the papers represent a wholesale effort to put governments in charge of the Internet. They would be put in a position to decide how the Internet’s underlying naming structure – the domain name system – expands and evolves. If the DNS evolves in the right way of course, governments won’t need to do anything, they will let others get on with it. But just in case people decide to do something that isn’t in the public’s interest, then governments will be there to firmly but politely inform them that they are not allowed to do that. Well, that’s the theory anyway. It’s a mindset that is familiar, but that doesn’t make it any less ridiculous. The sudden and surprising shift in the EC position follows precisely from the first appearance of the head of its Internet Directorate, Gerard de Graaf, at an ICANN meeting in Singapore in June. De Graaf caused an immediate outcry when he told ICANN Chairman Peter Dengate Thrush at a public meeting that the conversation between Board and GAC struck him as “a discussion between the deaf and the stupid” (the GAC is the governments’ body within ICANN). He simply could not understand why people would not take his word as fact and do his bidding. On a discussion over trademarks, De Graaf asked, perplexed: “Why don't you take the European trademark regime and make that the model for the rest of the world?” During a discussion on competition law, De Graaf chimed in: “I think there is a bit of a misunderstanding particularly about how the ICANN board or the legal counsel how competition law is enforced… we would encourage the legal counsel to continue to improve his understanding of competition law in the European Union.” Later on, the same mindset: “I find it interesting that the ICANN board members think that they have more knowledge about the competition than the competition authorities.” There were reports of De Graaf insulting and offending his European colleaguesThis inability to understand why governmental authority was not immediately accepted extended beyond the public meetings. There were reports of De Graaf insulting and offending his European colleagues for not forcing change through ICANN. ICANN’s management was also at the end of De Graaf’s indignation. And even the chair of the Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC), Canada’s representative Heather Dryden, was forced to deal with a number of efforts to undermine her authority when she failed, in De Graaf’s eyes, to push through government-mandated changes. Undaunted and apparently still with the backing of EC Commissioner Neelie Kroes, the policy papers produced by the EC this month need to be seen in that light: as the products of an outsider determined to bring people to their senses whether they like it or not. Not that the papers do not contain some ideas that ICANN observers will recognize and may agree with. Most have been taken from reports or public comments from others. One point in one of the six papers argues for the automation of changes at the top-level of the Internet – something registry managers have been requesting for yearsOne point in one of the six papers argues for the automation of changes at the top-level of the Internet – something registry managers have been requesting for years. It is also suggested ICANN draw up a stronger conflict of interests policy for Board members and staff – an issue that has been hotly debated for several months. One of the papers calls for election candidates to Board positions to be made public, along with their conflict of interest statements. Greater resources for the GAC are needed, along with higher-level representation and more efficient decision-making processes. And there should be a stronger independent review of ICANN’s decisions and finances. All of these things have been argued for by a large number of people within the Internet community over a number of years. However, it is the strident tone, the apparent refusal to accept counter-balancing views, to recognize work in progress, or to identify ways to make changes through existing systems, on top of several clear misunderstandings of how ICANN and the domain name system actually functions, that give cause for alarm. A European statement nearly derailed the negotiationsAll this is like déjà vu from WSIS, the World Summit on the Information Society (2003-2005), a UN process which was characterized by tense inter-governmental negotiations about how the Internet should be regulated. Towards the finale, a European statement nearly derailed the negotiations – and diplomatic relations between the EU and the United States – by seeming to support authoritarian governments who wanted more governmental control over the domain name system. Despite this, WSIS led to the formation of the Internet Governance Forum, and introduced the world to multistakeholder governance – where governments, private sector and civil society, technical and academic communities participate on an equal footing. Since WSIS, a whole new generation of Internet policymakers has evolved. Through regular contact with others from widely different backgrounds and widely different cultures talking about the same issues, there is an extraordinarily broad understanding of Internet problems from multiple perspectives. Agreement remains difficult but most recognise that all stakeholders need to have an equal say for the simple reason that policies created that way end up working better online. And, conversely, those that don’t benefit from all perspectives and a broad buy-in, invariably fail. Ever since, that Class of 2005 has been diligently working on making the “multi-stakeholder model” work properly, and the results of that work can be seen in the fact that the G8 and the OECD recently agreed to use the model as the main means by which they would reach agreement on future Internet issues. Quite some achievement for a model that’s barely 10 years old and which aims to supersede an inter-governmental approach that has been in place for over 100 years, with a notion of sovereignty that has been in place for over 350. What stands out in this model however is when a newcomer, almost always from the governmental world, turns up and proceeds to tell everyone else they have gone mad and that they should be putting their foot down. This is the way of the world, the confused newbie yelps, the Internet is no different. Except of course, the Internet is different. Its most valuable quality – the ability to allow people to communicate simply and directly at almost no cost – does away with the need for many of the previous systems for information. You can view it as a threat, or as an opportunity; it usually depends on how comfortable you are with a lack of control. ICANN far from blameless It should be noted that ICANN has brought many of its problems on itself. The organization continues to labor under the false belief that it has people’s support because of the job it does. In reality, it gets widespread support *despite* its actions. Following WSIS, the staff and Board at ICANN convinced themselves that it was their hard work, cogent views and smart lobbying that had led to governments supporting them. The reality was quite different: governments had decided to support ICANN as the lesser of two evils. Its management was widely mistrusted, and its Board members seen as ideological and out-of-touch, even deluded. While representatives like De Graaf have one narrative – that governments need to be put in charge and every problem is a reflection of the fact that they aren’t – ICANN has its own narrative to compete with it – we are right, we need to protect ourselves from these efforts to change what we have, and the silent majority support us. WSIS effectively gave ICANN five years to prove itself on the world stage. Could it become sufficiently internationalized, professional, reliable and self-sufficient to be trusted with managing a critical global resource – the Internet’s domain name system? For the first three years at least it started down the right path. ICANN’s then CEO Paul Twomey had seen first-hand how close the organization came to annihilation and determinedly set out to fix it. He was, in part, successful. New staff, independent reviews, greater resources, better operational effectiveness, expanded communications. It was far from perfect but it was working and ICANN was becoming more able and professional. Sadly, that process started to unravel under a new CEO, Rod BeckstromSadly, that process started to unravel under a new CEO, Rod Beckstrom. Rushed into place in order to have a new man at the helm when ICANN signed an historic agreement that gave it autonomy from the US government, Beckstrom had little or no understanding of the geo-political situation and, it turned out, was also insecure, a hopeless manager and a relentless self-publicist. With a new Chairman coming from the legal field, and with ICANN’s senior staff either edged out or leaving in order to escape the one-man-show that ICANN was rapidly becoming, the organization lost its institutional memory, lost the trust of many of its natural allies, and many of the reforms that were put in place to avoid a rerun of WSIS were left to wither. As change slowed and ICANN started to believe in its own infallibility again, it was met with an extraordinary series of public letters and speeches from US Assistant Commerce Secretary Larry Strickling lambasting ICANN for its failure to consider government issues. The relationship between the GAC and ICANN was left untended and began to turn sour. When the GAC finally put down its foot, it was met with indignation and, on occasion, sheer arrogance. Rather than try to fix the problems, ICANN staff started drawing up systems to ignore governments. When it tried to force the GAC onto a tight timeline and through a process of its own choosing, it threw up its hands in disbelief when those efforts were dismissed. As the community began to notice and started criticizing the organization, ICANN fell back into its persecution complexAs the community began to notice and started criticizing the organization, ICANN fell back into its persecution complex and chose to believe that the wider Internet community was behind it, despite mounting evidence otherwise. But it was when Beckstrom failed to show for the third day of a crucial GAC-Board meeting in Brussels, and Chairman Peter Dengate Thrush attempted to bully representatives from the United States and European Union that the wheels came off the wagon. Following a further tortuous series of meetings in San Francisco where the Board openly stalled a room of over 50 government representatives for two days, and then the next day approved the controversial dot-xxx Internet extension despite strong GAC advice to the contrary, governments took events into their own hands and held their own bilateral meetings, even revealing their dates, agenda, correspondence and releasing select minutes. The results were inevitable. The US government announced an overhaul of the IANA contract from which ICANN derives much of its authority, dismissing ICANN’s request to be handed the contract on a permanent basis out of hand; and the EC sent in its enforcer to remind ICANN that it is only one World Summit away from oblivion. So where is this all going? Unfortunately for Internet governance experts, the EC policy papers represent just the latest example of a government or organization deciding by itself what changes need to be made to the Internet’s overall functioning, without taking the time to consult with, or consider the views of, the many other affected parties. The fact that it comes from the European Commission, which everyone had considered a strong proponent of the current model, will come as a shock, and may bolster efforts by some governments, including China and Russia, to move the Internet into an entirely inter-governmental context. We understand that EU member states are also furious at what they see as heavy-handed and misguided efforts by De Graaf’s team to force change on ICANN and DNS management. Fundamentally, the papers derive from a weak understanding of the complexities of Internet governance, having cherry-picked and extrapolated criticisms of the current system without accounting for the broader eco-system. They also reflect a dangerous arrogance. The problems within the domain name system do not exist within a vacuum or as a result of a lack of energy, forward-thinking or efforts to introduce change. As the EC will most likely find out over the next 12 months, it is easy to make a lot of noise within the Internet governance world, but it is far, far harder to introduce effective change that works.

2 1

Fw: 2nd Annual ICT Security Africa summit Ghana September 2011
by Matunda Nyanchama 04 Sep '11

04 Sep '11

This is an excellent summit to attend for those in information risk management (in general) and information protection in particular. I have spoke at last year's event in Mombasa (alongside many speakers for this year's program) and was very impressed by the depth of knowledge of participants. Over to you. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: "Belinga, Constance (UK)" <cbelinga(a)mistieurope.com> To: mnyanchama(a)aganoconsulting.com Sent: Fri, August 12, 2011 12:59:13 PM Subject: 2nd Annual ICT Security Africa summit Ghana September 2011 Dear Dr. Nyanchama, I hope this reaches you well. Please find attached our upcoming 2nd Annual ICT Security Africa summit taking place in Accra in September. This programme is for business and government leaders and professionals in Africa working in technology, information security, cybercrime and ICT audit. It is the ideal opportunity for Chief Information Security Officers, Heads of IT Security and Technology Risk and CTOs to benchmark responses to emerging cyber threats and security approaches with private and public sectors across Africa and internationally. This event is the African chapter of MISTI’s international CISO Summits series hosted annually across Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the U.S. for directors of and thought-leaders in ICT assurance, information security, cyber threats and technology risk management from across Africa. The main theme running through the programme is “Enhancing Information Security & Building Resilience against Cyber Crime to Protect Assets & Critical Infrastructure in African Cyberspace”. Please should you and colleagues wish to register, kindly email me the booking details requested below, so that I can register you and add you on the delegate list. Please note that you are also entitled to group booking and corporate discounts. In order to register all you need to is provide the following information: -Full name including title (also please include the first or given name - this is for the certificate) -Course/Conference you would like to attend -Company Name -Job title -Department -Full postal address -Invoice address if different to above -Contact telephone number -Email address -PO number if you have one -Company VAT number -Do you agree to the cancellation policy? Cancellation policy: [Please ensure you have read this carefully before submitting your registration] MIS Training operates a 20 working day cancellation policy. Any cancellations received after 20 days or any delegate that does not attend will be subject to full payment. You may transfer to another course/conference for a transfer fee of 25% of the initial booking fee plus the difference between the value of the course/conference you are transferred to. This will be invoiced or refunded. Please note that the replacement course/conference must take place within 6 months of the initial application. Alternatively you may send another colleague to the initial booked course/conference without incurring any additional fees. A full refund less an administration fee of £100 will be given for cancellation requests received up to 20 working days before the event. Cancellations must be made in writing and reach the MIS office before the 20 working days deadline. Please confirm that you have read and understood the booking terms and conditions as stated above. A confirmation will be sent to you promptly upon receipt of your registration. If you do not receive confirmation from us within 3 business days of sending your registration, please contact us directly on +44 (0)20 7779 8030 or cbelinga(a)mistieurope.com I look forward to hearing from you, Best regards, Constance Belinga | Head of Africa Business | MIS Training Institute-EMEA Nestor House, Playhouse Yard, London, EC4V 5EX (: +44 (0)207 779 8030 | 7: +44 (0)207 779 8293 | : cbelinga(a)mistieurope.com þ: http://www.mistieurope.com MIS Training is proud to announce that it has been accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC). The BAC is recognised the world over and represents the clearest mark of educational quality. As well as being the foremost signifier of educational quality, accreditation by BAC is recognised by the UK Border Agency (UKBA). How does this effect me? Choosing a BAC-accredited training provider for your studies will ensure that the institution is of a high educational standard and considered to be bona fide by immigration officials. Indeed from 2009, new regulations have come into effect so that visas are granted only to delegates at accredited institutions such as MIS Training. Delegates should apply under a 'Student Visitor visa' for MIS Training courses. DISCLAIMER: The information in this email is confidential. The contents may not be disclosed or used by anyone other than the addressee. If you are not the intended recipient(s), any use, disclosure, copying, distribution or any action taken or omitted to be taken in reliance on it is prohibited and may be unlawful. If you have received this communication in error please notify us by e-mail or by telephone on +44 (0) 20 7779 8888 and then delete the e-mail and all attachments and any copies thereof. Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC (its subsidiaries and associates) cannot accept responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of this email as it has been transmitted over a public network. If you suspect that the email may have been intercepted or amended, please call the sender. Any views expressed by an individual in this email do not necessarily reflect views of Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC (its subsidiaries and associates). This communication is from Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC, a company registered in England and Wales under company number 954730 with registered office at Nestor House, Playhouse Yard, London

1 0

Article on Digital Villages in the Daily Nation
by warigia bowman 02 Sep '11

02 Sep '11

Dear colleagues Here is an article I wrote which appeared in Smart Company in the Daily Nation on Tuesday. Victor Gathara and I will be writing a more comprehensive report in the coming months. I had put in some compliments to the ICT Board staff and the Safaricom staff, but those were edited out by the nation. Yours, Rigia BY WARIGIA BOWMAN warigia(a)aucegypt.edu Plans are afoot to improve access to computing and Internet infrastructure in rural Kenya, thanks to an initiative between the government and the private sector. In April 2010, the ICT Board, which is part of the Ministry of Information and Communication, promised to connect each constituency by setting up a digital centre, complete with five computers and Internet connectivity, under the Pasha Centres programme. Kupasha is Kiswahili for “to inform”. The Pasha Centre project is being supported by $4 million (about Sh36 million) in revolving World Bank funds administered by Family Bank. Indeed, the Kenya Communication Amendment Act 2009 stipulates that the Communication Commission of Kenya (CCK) should levy telecoms operators a universal access fund of one per cent of their total revenue to be used for rural connectivity. Access to portals According to the regulator, 90 per cent of Kenya’s 6.4 million Internet users (2010) are in Nairobi and Mombasa. Both the digital villages and the pasha centres are to offer services such as access to government portals like NSSF, identity and driver licensing services, Teacher Service Commission information, HELB loans and information on farming, as well as access to e-health and e-learning. This all sounds fantastic and exciting... on paper. Unfortunately, the reality on the ground is different. A multi-sectoral group of academics, private sector consultants and civil society activists have visited 20 per cent of all pasha centres in Kenya, as well as 15 digital villages, over the past two months. What the group found is a matter of concern to anyone interested in rural connectivity in Africa. The number of digital villages and pasha centres that are actually open for business is only a fraction of the reported total. The ICT Board provided the research team with the list of all approved centres. Only 37 have actually been approved, although each of Kenya’s 210 constituencies is entitled to one. Of these, only two in the sample of 10 had actually received all of the money awarded to them and had opened for business. In addition, Safaricom provided the research team with a list of 147 digital villages, not 500. On the list of 147, the identifying information was incomplete and vague. The team visited pashas and digital villages in Malindi, Embu, Meru, Muranga, Maragwa, Nyeri, Isiolo, Samburu, Oloitoktok, Machakos, Wote and Mbumbuni. It was, however, yet to visit and evaluate pashas in Western, Kisii and Nyanza regions. Overall, the conditions in the ICT Board run pashas were better than those in the Safaricom-run digital villages, although the pashas also needed improvements. Owners were, on the whole, fairly well educated IT experts, good businesspeople and visionaries. The two pashas (Mbumbuni and Maragwa) that had actually opened offered a range of services, including photocopying, printing, typesetting, printing photos, browsing and IT training. Most of the centres had heard of e-health and e-learning, but did not really know what these terms meant and had received no training from the ICT Board in these areas, although the topics were mentioned at one training the pasha owners received in late May. Further, owners had little knowledge of what government services they could offer other than the registration of KRA pin details and downloading of police abstracts. Most had received little or no support regarding branding and marketing, and one of the open facilities was making a serious financial loss. However, it is easy to criticise and hard to build. In that spirit, here are some constructive suggestions. First, the MOIC, CCK and ICT Board should work together to implement the tax of one per cent on all telecommunications operators this year. Based on a quick back of the envelope calculation, this will amount to approximately Sh4 billion per year. Part of this money should support extra staff on the pasha centre project.Right now, there are only two people working on the pasha project at the ICT Board. Second, tariffs must come down. Every pasha owner and digital village operator we spoke to said tariffs were too high. Indeed, the ICT Board had promised pasha operators free connectivity for a year. Regardless, operators and digital village operators must be given highly preferential rates by telecommunications operators. In addition, pasha owners and digital village operators need support and training in marketing, branding, and proper use of government portals. Owners need to be sensitised on the wealth of information with regard to farming and husbandry, including Kenya Seeds, www.infonet-biovision.org, icow, and www.nafis.go.ke. Finally, Safaricom should expand the resources it invests in each digital village. There are many other reforms needed, but if the government and telecommunications operators can pay attention to these few suggestions, Kenya can attain true rural connectivity. Dr Bowman is an ICT expert in the American University, Cairo

4 6

Donate computers
by Network of non- formal Educational institutions 01 Sep '11

01 Sep '11

As we carry on the video conferencing program we realize the need for having some computers in the social halls that the student can use to access internet for past lessons. We wish to invite companies or individuals to donate new or used computers for this purpose Jane Muriuki Executive Director

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Article on Digital Villages in the Daily Nation
by warigia bowman 01 Sep '11

01 Sep '11

Dear Harry You are quite right. In the US, CTCs, digital villages, or whatever you want to call them, are PPP initiatives. Further, in the very small, rural town I am from, which is in a poor state, in the remote mountains, you can actually find our CTC in the neighborhood library. Finally, I would also like to point out that sustainability is a real threat the world over. we have successful entrepreneurs out there doing this work, but for them to succeed, they need lower tariffs, and more training. I also want to applaud the team of Kwame Shiroya and Helen Cheruiyot at the ICT Board, but they need more support and more staff. Patrick Mule is also doing his best at Safaricom, but again, he needs more support, and more staff, and for the company to make this a priority. Getting the USF fund going could really help with us. By the way, Uganda is really kicking Kenya's gizutza in this area, as is, of course, Rwanda. Yours, Rigia On Thu, Sep 1, 2011 at 2:45 PM, Harry Delano <harry(a)comtelsys.net> wrote: > ** > Dear Rigia, > > Thanks so much for your initiative to conduct this study on DV's. From the > case study in the Americas, I pick out the following:- > > Community Technology Centers (CTCs) came to the fore in the late 1990s > through an *activist nonprofit* sector combined with federal > government and *private sector* funding. > > I suppose and urge that, if any meaningful progress/achievement is to > be realised on this front to bring our communities into the ICT realm and > bridge the digital divide, then let's all roll up our sleeves and get down > to work to augument the efforts underway. The end result of well thought > and structured PPP initiatives can never be underestimated... > > It is a call to arms, to equip, empower and grow, and the digital age is > our current frontier. > > Regards, > Harry > > > ------------------------------ > *From:* kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke[mailto: > kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke] *On Behalf Of > *warigia bowman > *Sent:* Thursday, September 01, 2011 1:34 PM > *To:* harry(a)comtelsys.co.ke > *Cc:* dv-project(a)googlegroups.com; Wachira Kang’aru; Patrick Mule > Mbithuka; KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions; KK > > *Subject:* Re: [kictanet] Article on Digital Villages in the Daily Nation > > Dear colleagues > > Here is an article I had written many years ago. I did not think it was > worth much, but it seems very relevant to the discussion we are having on > digital villages. The PDF is available free online here. > > This is what digital villages COULD BE. > > http://www.emeraldinsight.com/journals.htm?articleid=1621502&show=html > > The promise of public access: Lessons from the American experience > ------------------------------ > The Authors Warigia Bowman, *Harvard University, USA* > Arifa Khandwalla, *University of Massachusetts, USA* Abstract > > This essay surveys and synthesizes the academic literature, archival > sources and interviews with key policy makers regarding the emergence of > community technology centers in the US. Community Technology Centers (CTCs) > came to the fore in the late 1990s through an activist nonprofit sector > combined with federal government and private sector funding. Federal data > indicates that CTCs now represent the most important access points to > information communications technology for the poor in the US. This essay > reviews the latest arguments for and against continued investment in CTCs > and public access in general. In addition to providing access, which is > often used beneficially for employment and education related purposes, CTCs > appear to contribute to social capital as they become social gathering > points. This paper concludes, that both government and nonprofits play a > vital role in ensuring public access for the poor and that continued > investment in CTCs is warranted. > Article Type: > > Literature review > Keyword(s): > > Access; ICT; Community; Technology centres; Government. > Journal: > > Journal of Information, Communication & Ethics in Society > Volume: > > 1 > Number: > > 2 > Year: > > 2003 > pp: > > 87-98 > Copyright © > > MCB UP Ltd > ISSN:1477-996X > > On Wed, Aug 31, 2011 at 5:00 PM, warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu>wrote: > >> Dear colleagues >> >> Here is an article I wrote which appeared in Smart Company in the Daily >> Nation on Tuesday. Victor Gathara and I will be writing a more comprehensive >> report in the coming months. I had put in some compliments to the ICT Board >> staff and the Safaricom staff, but those were edited out by the nation. >> >> Yours, Rigia >> >> BY WARIGIA BOWMAN >> >> warigia(a)aucegypt.edu >> >> >> >> Plans are afoot to improve access to computing and Internet >> infrastructure in rural Kenya, thanks to an initiative between the >> government and the private sector. In April 2010, the ICT Board, which >> is part of the Ministry of Information and Communication, promised to >> connect each constituency by setting up a digital centre, complete with five >> computers and Internet connectivity, under the Pasha Centres programme. >> >> Kupasha is Kiswahili for “to inform”. The Pasha Centre project is being >> supported by $4 million (about Sh36 million) in revolving World Bank funds >> administered by Family Bank. >> >> Indeed, the Kenya Communication Amendment Act 2009 stipulates that the >> Communication Commission of Kenya (CCK) should levy telecoms operators a >> universal access fund of one per cent of their total revenue to be used for >> rural connectivity. >> >> Access to portals >> >> According to the regulator, 90 per cent of Kenya’s 6.4 million Internet >> users (2010) are in Nairobi and Mombasa. Both the digital villages and the >> pasha centres are to offer services such as access to government portals >> like NSSF, identity and driver licensing services, Teacher Service >> Commission information, HELB loans and information on farming, as well as >> access to e-health and e-learning. >> >> This all sounds fantastic and exciting... on paper. Unfortunately, the >> reality on the ground is different. A multi-sectoral group of academics, >> private sector consultants and civil society activists have visited 20 per >> cent of all pasha centres in Kenya, as well as 15 digital villages, over the >> past two months. >> >> What the group found is a matter of concern to anyone interested in rural >> connectivity in Africa. >> >> The number of digital villages and pasha centres that are actually open >> for business is only a fraction of the reported total. The ICT Board >> provided the research team with the list of all approved centres. >> >> Only 37 have actually been approved, although each of Kenya’s 210 >> constituencies is entitled to one. Of these, only two in the sample of 10 >> had actually received all of the money awarded to them and had opened for >> business. >> >> In addition, Safaricom provided the research team with a list of 147 >> digital villages, not 500. On the list of 147, the identifying information >> was incomplete and vague. >> >> The team visited pashas and digital villages in Malindi, Embu, Meru, >> Muranga, Maragwa, Nyeri, Isiolo, Samburu, Oloitoktok, Machakos, Wote and >> Mbumbuni. It was, however, yet to visit and evaluate pashas in Western, >> Kisii and Nyanza regions. >> >> Overall, the conditions in the ICT Board run pashas were better than those >> in the Safaricom-run digital villages, although the pashas also needed >> improvements. >> >> Owners were, on the whole, fairly well educated IT experts, good >> businesspeople and visionaries. The two pashas (Mbumbuni and Maragwa) that >> had actually opened offered a range of services, including photocopying, >> printing, typesetting, printing photos, browsing and IT training. >> >> Most of the centres had heard of e-health and e-learning, but did not >> really know what these terms meant and had received no training from the ICT >> Board in these areas, although the topics were mentioned at one training the >> pasha owners received in late May. >> >> Further, owners had little knowledge of what government services they >> could offer other than the registration of KRA pin details and downloading >> of police abstracts. Most had received little or no support regarding >> branding and marketing, and one of the open facilities was making a serious >> financial loss. >> >> However, it is easy to criticise and hard to build. In that spirit, here >> are some constructive suggestions. >> >> First, the MOIC, CCK and ICT Board should work together to implement the >> tax of one per cent on all telecommunications operators this year. >> >> Based on a quick back of the envelope calculation, this will amount to >> approximately Sh4 billion per year. Part of this money should support extra >> staff on the pasha centre project.Right now, there are only two people >> working on the pasha project at the ICT Board. >> >> Second, tariffs must come down. Every pasha owner and digital village >> operator we spoke to said tariffs were too high. Indeed, the ICT Board had >> promised pasha operators free connectivity for a year. >> >> Regardless, operators and digital village operators must be given highly >> preferential rates by telecommunications operators. >> >> In addition, pasha owners and digital village operators need support and >> training in marketing, branding, and proper use of government portals. >> >> Owners need to be sensitised on the wealth of information with regard to >> farming and husbandry, including Kenya Seeds, www.infonet-biovision.org, >> icow, and www.nafis.go.ke. >> >> Finally, Safaricom should expand the resources it invests in each digital >> village. >> >> There are many other reforms needed, but if the government and >> telecommunications operators can pay attention to these few suggestions, >> Kenya can attain true rural connectivity. >> >> >> >> Dr Bowman is an ICT expert in the American University, Cairo >> >> >> >> >> > >

1 0

A Paper on Tanzania's Domestic Broadband Policy
by Muchiri Nyaggah 01 Sep '11

01 Sep '11

FYI. I'd be interested in seeing a similar paper on Kenya's policy. If anyone has access to one please share. Thanks. Kind regards, *Muchiri* Nyaggah Principal Partner @muchiri +254 722 506400 Semacraft.com

8 9

Re: [kictanet] help? contacts on M-PESA and mobile currencies in africa
by warigia bowman 01 Sep '11

01 Sep '11

Dear colleagues, My American colleague at Brookings posed the following question. "I've been playing around in digital currencies, and wanted to chat about M-PESA, and other mobile-based currencies, with a particular eye to how the governments of East Africa may respond. I'm also curious how closely tied mobile devices are to personal identities--is is easy to move funds through safaricom, for example, without having it tied to a particular person? Do you know anyone who might be willing to have a quick chat, or answer a few email questions? Any help you can offer would be great." Can anyone assist? Yours, Rigia

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Article on Digital Villages in the Daily Nation
by meshack emakunat 01 Sep '11

01 Sep '11

Hi, nice work. If i may comment. after reading the article i view the whole initiative as a stand alone ict sector. In my opinion, from your first suggestion i think involving the ministry of education as a stakeholder may also have + results in the implementation and ME. Not only should MOE be involved but also other sectors. By putting priority to the MOE, i may be empasizing on the role education in public engagement in the implementation of ict for the benefit of development. Besides, rural areas are described by the low level of literacy. All am saying is that if people get proper education and are taught on importance of ict in development and most important in contemporary life then greater results will be achieved. Let the society be fully involved through education and other fields. Thank you On Wed Aug 31st, 2011 7:00 AM PDT warigia bowman wrote: >Dear colleagues > >Here is an article I wrote which appeared in Smart Company in the Daily >Nation on Tuesday. Victor Gathara and I will be writing a more comprehensive >report in the coming months. I had put in some compliments to the ICT Board >staff and the Safaricom staff, but those were edited out by the nation. > >Yours, Rigia > >BY WARIGIA BOWMAN > >warigia(a)aucegypt.edu > > > >Plans are afoot to improve access to computing and Internet infrastructure >in rural Kenya, thanks to an initiative between the government and the >private sector. In April 2010, the ICT Board, which is part of the >Ministry of Information and Communication, promised to connect each >constituency by setting up a digital centre, complete with five computers >and Internet connectivity, under the Pasha Centres programme. > >Kupasha is Kiswahili for “to inform”. The Pasha Centre project is being >supported by $4 million (about Sh36 million) in revolving World Bank funds >administered by Family Bank. > >Indeed, the Kenya Communication Amendment Act 2009 stipulates that the >Communication Commission of Kenya (CCK) should levy telecoms operators a >universal access fund of one per cent of their total revenue to be used for >rural connectivity. > >Access to portals > >According to the regulator, 90 per cent of Kenya’s 6.4 million Internet >users (2010) are in Nairobi and Mombasa. Both the digital villages and the >pasha centres are to offer services such as access to government portals >like NSSF, identity and driver licensing services, Teacher Service >Commission information, HELB loans and information on farming, as well as >access to e-health and e-learning. > >This all sounds fantastic and exciting... on paper. Unfortunately, the >reality on the ground is different. A multi-sectoral group of academics, >private sector consultants and civil society activists have visited 20 per >cent of all pasha centres in Kenya, as well as 15 digital villages, over the >past two months. > >What the group found is a matter of concern to anyone interested in rural >connectivity in Africa. > >The number of digital villages and pasha centres that are actually open for >business is only a fraction of the reported total. The ICT Board provided >the research team with the list of all approved centres. > >Only 37 have actually been approved, although each of Kenya’s 210 >constituencies is entitled to one. Of these, only two in the sample of 10 >had actually received all of the money awarded to them and had opened for >business. > >In addition, Safaricom provided the research team with a list of 147 digital >villages, not 500. On the list of 147, the identifying information was >incomplete and vague. > >The team visited pashas and digital villages in Malindi, Embu, Meru, >Muranga, Maragwa, Nyeri, Isiolo, Samburu, Oloitoktok, Machakos, Wote and >Mbumbuni. It was, however, yet to visit and evaluate pashas in Western, >Kisii and Nyanza regions. > >Overall, the conditions in the ICT Board run pashas were better than those >in the Safaricom-run digital villages, although the pashas also needed >improvements. > >Owners were, on the whole, fairly well educated IT experts, good >businesspeople and visionaries. The two pashas (Mbumbuni and Maragwa) that >had actually opened offered a range of services, including photocopying, >printing, typesetting, printing photos, browsing and IT training. > >Most of the centres had heard of e-health and e-learning, but did not >really know what these terms meant and had received no training from the ICT >Board in these areas, although the topics were mentioned at one training the >pasha owners received in late May. > >Further, owners had little knowledge of what government services they could >offer other than the registration of KRA pin details and downloading of >police abstracts. Most had received little or no support regarding branding >and marketing, and one of the open facilities was making a serious financial >loss. > >However, it is easy to criticise and hard to build. In that spirit, here are >some constructive suggestions. > >First, the MOIC, CCK and ICT Board should work together to implement the tax >of one per cent on all telecommunications operators this year. > >Based on a quick back of the envelope calculation, this will amount to >approximately Sh4 billion per year. Part of this money should support extra >staff on the pasha centre project.Right now, there are only two people >working on the pasha project at the ICT Board. > >Second, tariffs must come down. Every pasha owner and digital village >operator we spoke to said tariffs were too high. Indeed, the ICT Board had >promised pasha operators free connectivity for a year. > >Regardless, operators and digital village operators must be given highly >preferential rates by telecommunications operators. > >In addition, pasha owners and digital village operators need support and >training in marketing, branding, and proper use of government portals. > >Owners need to be sensitised on the wealth of information with regard to >farming and husbandry, including Kenya Seeds, www.infonet-biovision.org, >icow, and www.nafis.go.ke. > >Finally, Safaricom should expand the resources it invests in each digital >village. > >There are many other reforms needed, but if the government and >telecommunications operators can pay attention to these few suggestions, >Kenya can attain true rural connectivity. > > > >Dr Bowman is an ICT expert in the American University, Cairo

3 2

Fw: [AfriNIC-rpd] The Call for Presentations for AfriNIC-15 is OPEN!
by Walubengo J 31 Aug '11

31 Aug '11

Apologies for crossposting - but you could chose to submit a presentation for the upcoming Afrinic-15 in Cameroon in Nov 2011. walu. --- On Mon, 8/29/11, Diane Nuteau <diane(a)afrinic.net> wrote: From: Diane Nuteau <diane(a)afrinic.net> Subject: [AfriNIC-rpd] The Call for Presentations for AfriNIC-15 is OPEN! To: rpd(a)afrinic.net Date: Monday, August 29, 2011, 11:17 PM Dear Colleagues, This is your call to present at AfriNIC-15 Public Policy meeting and join other presenters to deliver tools, knowledge, and know-how or policy ideas related to Internet Number Resource Management or IP networking operations to participants. Your contribution can be in the form of a presentation during a session, a tutorial or a live technical demonstration. If you are interested in presenting, please follow the submission instructions below. How to submit: Please review all information before submitting your proposal on: *https://meeting.afrinic.net/afrinic-15/?q=content/call-presentations* Your submission should be sent using the online form on https://meeting.afrinic.net/afrinic-15/?q=content/call-presentation-submiss… Your proposal should contain the following information: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ * Full Name * Email Address * Affiliation * Short biography * Title of Presentation * A detailed abstract or outline describing the presentation * Draft slides for the presentation (if ready/available) * Length of talk (minutes/hours/days) * Need (or not) for sponsorship or assistance to attend the meeting (travel and/or accommodation, etc) ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Important Dates: * Meeting Registration opens: 29 August 2011 * Deadline for submissions: 28 September 2011 * Notification of Acceptance : 12 October 2011 * AfriNIC-15 Meeting: 19 -25 November 2011 Guidelines: Presentation topics can range from but are not exclusive to: - IPv6 deployment - Security - IDN - Mobile IP - IXP - DNSSEC * Presentations will be fifteen (15) to thirty (30) minutes in length, with approximately 10-15 minutes for Q&A at the end of each presentation. The maximum time allotted per presentation will not exceed is 45 minutes. The presenter(s) will be required to submit their presentation in PDF 2 weeks prior to the event date. * Tutorials can range from 90 minutes to half a day in length. A full course outline is required. * Demonstration facilities will need to be agreed based on available resources on-site. * AfriNIC will provide the space, tea/lunch breaks and projector equipment. * Presenters will be responsible for any handouts. There are typically approximately 100-150 delegates. * The Meeting Coordination team and the program Committee will make the selection decisions. * Selected presenters will be contacted by the Events Coordinator to coordinate logistics and details * Note that proposals are reviewed and accepted on an on-going basis and that presentation slots may be filled prior to this date. The audience at AfriNIC meetings is mainly composed of technical network operators and engineers with a wide range of experience levels from beginners to seasoned professionals. --- *** Presentations that contain any sort of marketing and commercial content are usually not encouraged at such meetings. --- Thank you for your contribution. Kind regards, The AfriNIC Meeting Team AfriNIC | 11th Floor ABC | Raffles Tower | Cybercity | Mauritius Tel: +230 403 5100 |Fax: +230 466 6758 ********************** http://www.afrinic.net/ ********************** Join us at AfriNIC-15 in Cameroon, 19-25 November 2011 ********************** _______________________________________________ rpd mailing list rpd(a)afrinic.net https://lists.afrinic.net/mailman/listinfo.cgi/rpd

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Media Round Tables - Invitation
by George Nyabuga 31 Aug '11

31 Aug '11

Thanks Alex for your message, and feedback. We are always looking for opportunities to engage with issues that affect the media, and its relationship with society. I am sure the roundtables offer us a chance to interact with issues regarding media performance. Many thanks. George > Dear George, all, > > Thank you for inviting me to this event held yesterday. The conversation > was > indeed enlightening and without intending it to spillover to social > media > , allow me to speak to an issue raised by one of the panelists? Convinced > that if media houses corrected the situation readers would enjoy richer > content. > > Consider an email message received in April 2010 that read, in part; - > > - - - snip - - - > > I remember you promised to send me a copy of the final piece Alex. Every > reporter with whom I deal... promises to send me a copy of their final > story... yet very few do... so I'm particularly grateful to you. > > - - - snap - - - > > Coming from corporate Media Relations Executive in Washington D.C. with > over 25 years industry experience. > > It'd be interesting if the School of Journalism conducted a study on if > and > how journalists got back to their content sources with their final pieces? > (after publishing of course) For a long time contributors have been left > wondering in the dark when or where their citation/ contribution was > published, or if at all. > > A long time ago contributors used to receive complimentary copies but, we > know, cost cutting led to abolishing of the practice but today can email > then a scanned copy? > > The importance could never be emphasized enough because the very > journalist, > if not occasionally, find themselves going back to the same sources > seeking > fresh contributions on other subjects therefore if went the extra mile > find > themselves better positioned to extract even more and better researched > content from same contributors. > > And those that run off and publish wherever disregarding even a > courteous > notification, say, even a web link have a harder time convincing > contributors that it is worth the while to invest a lot more of their time > when responding to their new queries thus offering "quite light" > subsequent > contributions. > > Concerns me not as contributor myself, but more as an information > consumer > desirous of even richer media content. > > From wherever I got my generosity of opinion? Nonetheless, wish > Kwamchetsi > Makokha a headache free day:-) > > regards, > > Alex > > On Tue, Aug 30, 2011 at 2:32 AM, George Nyabuga > <gnyabuga(a)uonbi.ac.ke>wrote: > >> Dear friends, >> >> The School of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Nairobi, >> the Media Focus on Africa Foundation, the Media Institute, and the Kenya >> Editors Guild are pleased to invite you to participate in a Media Round >> Table to be held on 30 August 2011, between 12 and 2pm, at the Alliance >> Francaise to discuss the relationship between the media and civil >> society, >> and their role in the consolidation of democracy in Kenya. The panelists >> will be Prof Kivutha Kibwana, President Mwai Kibakis Advisor on >> Constitutional, Parliamentary and Youth Affairs, Dr Joyce Nyairo of Ford >> Foundation Office for Eastern Africa, Cyprian Nyamwamu of the National >> Convention Executive Council, Andy Kagwa of The Standard Group, and >> Wilson >> Ugangu of Multimedia University. The event will be open to members of >> the >> public to enhance public understanding of the role of the media in the >> Kenyan society. Former newspaper editor, regular media commentator and >> consultant Kwamchetsi Makokha will moderate the discussions. >> >> This is part of a series of monthly round table meetings held on the >> last >> Tuesday of every month. The remit of the Monthly Media Round Tables is >> to >> deeply examine, in conversations with various organisations and people >> like academics/scholars, media practitioners/journalists, civil society, >> policy makers, media stakeholders, politicians, and ordinary Kenyans, >> the role of the media in Kkenya. >> >> The event will be open to members of the public. Entry is FREE. >> We look forward to your participation. >> >> >> >> -- >> Dr George Nyabuga >> Associate Director >> School of Journalism & Mass Communication >> University of Nairobi >> Education Building >> Harry Thuku Road >> PO Box 30197 - 00100 >> Nairobi, Kenya >> Tel: +254(0)20 318262 Fax: +254(0)20 2229168 >> Mobile: +254 (0)72151 6573 >> Email: gnyabuga(a)uonbi.ac.ke, gnyabuga(a)yahoo.co.uk >> 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 9001:2008 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 9001:2008 standard. > > University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ > +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ > > -- Dr George Nyabuga Associate Director School of Journalism & Mass Communication University of Nairobi Education Building Harry Thuku Road PO Box 30197 - 00100 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254(0)20 318262 Fax: +254(0)20 2229168 Mobile: +254 (0)72151 6573 Email: gnyabuga(a)uonbi.ac.ke, gnyabuga(a)yahoo.co.uk 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 9001:2008 standard. University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

1 0

Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 51, Issue 173
by Angela Nganga- Mumo 31 Aug '11

31 Aug '11

Hello Peter, It is a limited offer valid while stocks last the Orange Mega Shop have sold out their allocation. But we still have some in other shops please inbox me your number and I'll get one delivered to you. Apologies for any inconvenience caused. Regards Angela Sent from my 4g iPhone powered by Orange On Aug 29, 2011, at 16:05, "kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke" <kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: > Send kictanet mailing list submissions to > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > You can reach the person managing the list at > kictanet-owner(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of kictanet digest..." > > > Today's Topics: > > 1. Re: Special limited offer on new Orange Internet Everywhere > 21Mbps modem (Peter K. Kenduiywo) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Mon, 29 Aug 2011 16:04:15 +0300 > From: "Peter K. Kenduiywo" <pkenduiywo(a)jambo.co.ke> > To: Angela Nganga- Mumo <anganga(a)orange-tkl.co.ke> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Special limited offer on new Orange Internet > Everywhere 21Mbps modem > Message-ID: > <CAAgQcgk1JW=JMcxdz6h_gi6wC7QZGK+Y6UOtbwa+smaoMObJBQ(a)mail.gmail.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" > > Hi Angela, > How could you? According to your GPO shop this happened and ended on > Saturday. > PK > > On Monday, 29 August 2011, Angela Nganga- Mumo <anganga(a)orange-tkl.co.ke> > wrote: >> Hello Listers, >> >> Visit your nearest Orange Shop today and buy the new Orange Internet >> Everywhere 21Mbps modem at Kshs 3,500 (over 50% discount). Offer valid >> while stocks last. >> >> Regards, >> >> Angela >> >> >> -----Original Message----- >> From: kictanet-bounces+anganga=orange-tkl.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> [mailto:kictanet-bounces+anganga=orange-tkl.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] >> On Behalf Of kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> Sent: Jumapili, Agosti 28, 2011 12:00 PM >> To: Angela Nganga- Mumo >> Subject: kictanet Digest, Vol 51, Issue 170 >> >> Send kictanet mailing list submissions to >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> >> To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to >> kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> >> You can reach the person managing the list at >> kictanet-owner(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> >> When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific >> than "Re: Contents of kictanet digest..." >> >> >> Today's Topics: >> >> 1. Re: CCK's Directive on counterfeit phones (Kamotho Njenga) >> 2. Website of the Republic of Kenya (Odhiambo Washington) >> 3. Re: Website of the Republic of Kenya (Solomon Mb?r? Kamau) >> >> >> ---------------------------------------------------------------------- >> >> Message: 1 >> Date: Sat, 27 Aug 2011 04:46:14 -0700 >> From: Kamotho Njenga <kamothonjenga(a)gmail.com> >> To: Solomon Mb?r? Kamau <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com> >> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >> Subject: Re: [kictanet] CCK's Directive on counterfeit phones >> Message-ID: >> >> <CAFSXrsLae97FETX-OapVtaSUZnecWEJ4_q0vx7jQWydmjGNq-w(a)mail.gmail.com> >> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" >> >> Solomon, >> >> Your concern is quite legitimate and certainly this is one issue that >> may >> indeed be perplexing many people even beyond this list. Its appropriate >> to >> state from the onset that there is need for the intended action of >> deactivating the counterfeit phones. Its a critical step towards >> addressing >> the broader question of information and human security. >> >> In general terms a phone will be deemed fake if it doesnt possess a >> valid >> International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) code which is a 15 digit >> number unique to a handset. Ordinarily the IMEI code can be displayed by >> typing *#06# on the phone. The IMEI code surfaces on the operators >> network >> when a call is initiated making it possible to trace the handset, the >> caller >> or the call details. Without a valid IMEI criminals may take advantage >> to >> engage in secret or fraudulent communication. In simple terms they can >> request for your neck, kidnap, extort ransoms etc without fear of being >> tracked. >> >> *The Problem* >> This noble activity is being driven by an amateurish team. CCK has >> degenerated the whole affair to that of threats and intimidation to >> Mobile >> operators and consumers at large. They have undertaken to issue >> ultimatums >> without engaging the affected parties and the wider Kenyan society on >> the >> benefits of the intended action. With the new constitutional mood, even >> a >> boy can conveniently secure a court injunction to stop this process >> simply >> because a well intentioned idea is being implemented like a cattle dip >> project in the 80's >> >> Secondly there is absolutely no attempt to enlighten the mobile >> community. >> Less than one percent of Kenyans can distinguish between a fake and a >> genuine phone. This implies high chances that a consumers phone can be >> disabled today and a user interprets it as a technical handset issue. >> Worse >> still by evening he/she may have procured another one of the counterfeit >> type. >> >> Further these sort of directives tend to create technology distrust. A >> large >> number of Kenyans may not distinguish the handset as a device from other >> services such as Mobile Money capabilities. Such fears when embedded in >> the >> minds can have a slowing effect on technology adoption and use thus >> watering >> down the momentum of uptake. >> >> Unless something magical is done this directive might end in vain. >> >> Kamotho Njenga >> >> >> >> On Sat, Aug 27, 2011 at 12:07 AM, Solomon Mb?r? Kamau >> <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com>wrote: >> >>> Listers, >>> >>> The other day, CCK issued an ultimatum to mibile phone service >>> providers to disable all counterfeit phones, I think by 1st September >>> 2011 (I stand to be corrected), and I'm a bit worried on what >>> criterion/criteria a phone is deemed fake! >>> Is it the presence of an IMEI number? >>> >>> I'm still in the dark on this and I'm afraid most people are. >>> >>> Anyone to enlighten? >>> >>> Regards, >>> >>> Solomon >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> kictanet mailing list >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >>> >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >>> >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kamothonjenga%40gma >> il.com >>> >>> The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder >> platform for >>> people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and >>> regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the >> ICT >>> sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and >> development. >>> >>> KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors >>> online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and >> bandwidth, >>> share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, >> do >>> not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >>> >>

2 1

Media Round Tables - Invitation
by George Nyabuga 30 Aug '11

30 Aug '11

Dear friends, The School of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Nairobi, the Media Focus on Africa Foundation, the Media Institute, and the Kenya Editors Guild are pleased to invite you to participate in a Media Round Table to be held on 30 August 2011, between 12 and 2pm, at the Alliance Francaise to discuss the relationship between the media and civil society, and their role in the consolidation of democracy in Kenya. The panelists will be Prof Kivutha Kibwana, President Mwai Kibakis Advisor on Constitutional, Parliamentary and Youth Affairs, Dr Joyce Nyairo of Ford Foundation Office for Eastern Africa, Cyprian Nyamwamu of the National Convention Executive Council, Andy Kagwa of The Standard Group, and Wilson Ugangu of Multimedia University. The event will be open to members of the public to enhance public understanding of the role of the media in the Kenyan society. Former newspaper editor, regular media commentator and consultant Kwamchetsi Makokha will moderate the discussions. This is part of a series of monthly round table meetings held on the last Tuesday of every month. The remit of the Monthly Media Round Tables is to deeply examine, in conversations with various organisations and people like academics/scholars, media practitioners/journalists, civil society, policy makers, media stakeholders, politicians, and ordinary Kenyans, the role of the media in Kkenya. The event will be open to members of the public. Entry is FREE. We look forward to your participation. -- Dr George Nyabuga Associate Director School of Journalism & Mass Communication University of Nairobi Education Building Harry Thuku Road PO Box 30197 - 00100 Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254(0)20 318262 Fax: +254(0)20 2229168 Mobile: +254 (0)72151 6573 Email: gnyabuga(a)uonbi.ac.ke, gnyabuga(a)yahoo.co.uk 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 9001:2008 standard. University of Nairobi Website: http://www.uonbi.ac.ke/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

3 2

Fw: CCK clears the air on the phasing out of conterfeit phones
by Walubengo J 30 Aug '11

30 Aug '11

as requested find attached. walu. --- On Tue, 8/30/11, Wambua, Christopher <Wambua(a)cck.go.ke> wrote: From: Wambua, Christopher <Wambua(a)cck.go.ke> Subject: CCK clears the air on the phasing out of conterfeit phones To: "Walubengo J" <jwalu(a)yahoo.com>, "Alex Gakuru" <gakuru(a)gmail.com> Cc: "CPR team" <CPRteam(a)cck.go.ke> Date: Tuesday, August 30, 2011, 2:23 PM Walu/Alex, Kindly share this with listers in your respective web lists. Many thanks Christopher Wambua Assistant PR Manager Communications Commission of Kenya Waiyaki Way Opp. Kianda School P.O Box 14448 Nairobi, 00800 Tel. +254-20-4242-209 Fax: +254-20-4451866 Email: Wambua(a)cck.go.ke Website: http://www.cck.go.ke Disclaimer: This email and any files transmitted with it are confidential and intended solely for the use by the individual(s) or entity to whom it is addressed to. If you are not the intended recipient you are notified that disclosing, copying, distributing or taking any action in reliance on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited. Additionally, if you have received this email in error please notify the sender immediately by a reply e-mail.

1 0

Fw: [AfriNIC-rpd] Fellowship Application for AfriNIC-15 is OPEN!
by Walubengo J 30 Aug '11

30 Aug '11

fyi. Those wishing to get a fellowship to attend the next AfriNIC meeting can show interest below. walu. --- On Tue, 8/30/11, Diane Nuteau <diane(a)afrinic.net> wrote: From: Diane Nuteau <diane(a)afrinic.net> Subject: [AfriNIC-rpd] Fellowship Application for AfriNIC-15 is OPEN! To: rpd(a)afrinic.net Date: Tuesday, August 30, 2011, 9:49 AM Dear Colleagues, With reference to the announcement for the AfriNIC-15 Fellowship Application, please click on the URL below for further information regarding the fellowship form and submission. https://meeting.afrinic.net/afrinic-15/?q=content/fellowship-programme Good luck! The AfriNIC Meeting Team AfriNIC | 11th Floor ABC | Raffles Tower | Cybercity | Mauritius Tel: +230 403 5100 |Fax: +230 466 6758 ********************** http://www.afrinic.net/ ********************** Join us at AfriNIC-15 in Cameroon, 19-25 November 2011 ********************** _______________________________________________ rpd mailing list rpd(a)afrinic.net https://lists.afrinic.net/mailman/listinfo.cgi/rpd

1 0

Craft Silicon - Need for a case study
by robert yawe 30 Aug '11

30 Aug '11

Hi, I had the privilege of attending a presentation by Kamal, the founder the CEO of Craft Silicon which was an eye opener. In under 10 years Kamal has gone from being a fresh immigrant, in a rented room that acted both as his residence come office and individual developer with one client to a citizen, a company owned corporate head quarters and an organisation of over 250 employees with 400 plus large corporate clients spread over 40 countries across 3 continents. From his story Kenya is the real land of opportunity, so what is it that we lack as Wanainchi, why do we look for solutions and opportunities externally yet when others look in they see us sitting on piles of Gold? We need to document and recognise great achievements, Craft Silicon receives less than 40% of its revenue from Kenya the rest is from exports so why do we keep trying to recreate the wheel instead of learning from those who have overcome local hurdles and become successful. Yes, as I sat there listening to Kamal thousands of such questions kept shooting through my mind, why have I not been able to achieve even a tenth of what he has achieved? I believe it might be the comfort of being "home" as if all fails the worst that can happen is for me to relocate by bus or even on foot to my ancestral home. So the critical question is how do we develop the hunger that Kamal had when he used his life savings to buy an air ticket back from India after he had been deported? I will not pretend to know the answer and instead I ask you out there do you have the answer? Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

1 0

Website of the Republic of Kenya
by Odhiambo Washington 29 Aug '11

29 Aug '11

I took a cue from Dr. Ochuodho's post and visited the website of Govt of South Sudan <http://www.goss.org/>website (GoSS). It was quite refreshing navigating the website. This led me to come back home for a comparison. I am not sure if what first came to mind what is the official website for the Govt of Kenya <http://www.kenya.go.ke> (GoK), but if it is, I must say, in the language preferred by generationY (or is it X), that *tuko tu down sana*because I assume we're supposed to be way ahead, to lead by example, if only I can take as an example what the Goss has done with our flag to come up with theirs. Ok, I accept we've made a milestone with the Open Data initiative, but so what? Is the website as elusive to us as the national dress? I wish I knew who to blame, and be able to give them a call, like you can do with the GoSS. Surprisingly, our own Dr. Shem Ochuodho is the one pulling most of the strings in South Sudan. Nkt. -- Best regards, Odhiambo WASHINGTON, Nairobi,KE +254733744121/+254722743223 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ I can't hear you -- I'm using the scrambler. Please consider the environment before printing this email.

3 2

Special limited offer on new Orange Internet Everywhere 21Mbps modem
by Angela Nganga- Mumo 29 Aug '11

29 Aug '11

Hello Listers, Visit your nearest Orange Shop today and buy the new Orange Internet Everywhere 21Mbps modem at Kshs 3,500 (over 50% discount). Offer valid while stocks last. Regards, Angela -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+anganga=orange-tkl.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+anganga=orange-tkl.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke Sent: Jumapili, Agosti 28, 2011 12:00 PM To: Angela Nganga- Mumo Subject: kictanet Digest, Vol 51, Issue 170 Send kictanet mailing list submissions to kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke You can reach the person managing the list at kictanet-owner(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of kictanet digest..." Today's Topics: 1. Re: CCK's Directive on counterfeit phones (Kamotho Njenga) 2. Website of the Republic of Kenya (Odhiambo Washington) 3. Re: Website of the Republic of Kenya (Solomon Mb?r? Kamau) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Sat, 27 Aug 2011 04:46:14 -0700 From: Kamotho Njenga <kamothonjenga(a)gmail.com> To: Solomon Mb?r? Kamau <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Subject: Re: [kictanet] CCK's Directive on counterfeit phones Message-ID: <CAFSXrsLae97FETX-OapVtaSUZnecWEJ4_q0vx7jQWydmjGNq-w(a)mail.gmail.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" Solomon, Your concern is quite legitimate and certainly this is one issue that may indeed be perplexing many people even beyond this list. Its appropriate to state from the onset that there is need for the intended action of deactivating the counterfeit phones. Its a critical step towards addressing the broader question of information and human security. In general terms a phone will be deemed fake if it doesnt possess a valid International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) code which is a 15 digit number unique to a handset. Ordinarily the IMEI code can be displayed by typing *#06# on the phone. The IMEI code surfaces on the operators network when a call is initiated making it possible to trace the handset, the caller or the call details. Without a valid IMEI criminals may take advantage to engage in secret or fraudulent communication. In simple terms they can request for your neck, kidnap, extort ransoms etc without fear of being tracked. *The Problem* This noble activity is being driven by an amateurish team. CCK has degenerated the whole affair to that of threats and intimidation to Mobile operators and consumers at large. They have undertaken to issue ultimatums without engaging the affected parties and the wider Kenyan society on the benefits of the intended action. With the new constitutional mood, even a boy can conveniently secure a court injunction to stop this process simply because a well intentioned idea is being implemented like a cattle dip project in the 80's Secondly there is absolutely no attempt to enlighten the mobile community. Less than one percent of Kenyans can distinguish between a fake and a genuine phone. This implies high chances that a consumers phone can be disabled today and a user interprets it as a technical handset issue. Worse still by evening he/she may have procured another one of the counterfeit type. Further these sort of directives tend to create technology distrust. A large number of Kenyans may not distinguish the handset as a device from other services such as Mobile Money capabilities. Such fears when embedded in the minds can have a slowing effect on technology adoption and use thus watering down the momentum of uptake. Unless something magical is done this directive might end in vain. Kamotho Njenga On Sat, Aug 27, 2011 at 12:07 AM, Solomon Mb?r? Kamau <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com>wrote: > Listers, > > The other day, CCK issued an ultimatum to mibile phone service > providers to disable all counterfeit phones, I think by 1st September > 2011 (I stand to be corrected), and I'm a bit worried on what > criterion/criteria a phone is deemed fake! > Is it the presence of an IMEI number? > > I'm still in the dark on this and I'm afraid most people are. > > Anyone to enlighten? > > Regards, > > Solomon > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kamothonjenga%40gma il.com > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >

2 2

CCK's Directive on counterfeit phones
by Solomon Mbũrũ Kamau 28 Aug '11

28 Aug '11

Listers, The other day, CCK issued an ultimatum to mibile phone service providers to disable all counterfeit phones, I think by 1st September 2011 (I stand to be corrected), and I'm a bit worried on what criterion/criteria a phone is deemed fake! Is it the presence of an IMEI number? I'm still in the dark on this and I'm afraid most people are. Anyone to enlighten? Regards, Solomon

4 3

Re: [kictanet] CCK's Directive on counterfeit phones
by arap Kirui 27 Aug '11

27 Aug '11

I too am confused on this IMEI business. I bought the E 63 phone promoted and sold by Safaricom. I tried the *#06# on it and I realise it is 'fake'. The same phone was recently upgraded by the Nokia Care Centre along Mama Ngiina St Hilton Hotel building. Could they really have been upgrading a counterfeit? Can someone from Safaricom or Nokia enlighten me? Is there something we do not understand? arap Kirui Sent from my Nokia phone -----Original Message----- From: Solomon Mbũrũ Kamau Sent: 27/08/2011 10:07:39 To: arapkirui(a)gmail.com Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: [kictanet] CCK's Directive on counterfeit phones Listers, The other day, CCK issued an ultimatum to mibile phone service providers to disable all counterfeit phones, I think by 1st September 2011 (I stand to be corrected), and I'm a bit worried on what criterion/criteria a phone is deemed fake! Is it the presence of an IMEI number? I'm still in the dark on this and I'm afraid most people are. Anyone to enlighten? Regards, Solomon _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/arapkirui%40gmail.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.

1 0

South Sudan - New Government Announced, ICT Minister Retained
by Shem Ochuodho 26 Aug '11

26 Aug '11

The 1st Government after Independence has been announced. The Telecom and Information Ministers retained, and so is the Former Telecom Minister, who is now in charge of Roads. Good sign of confidence. For more details, see: http://www.goss.org/. Warm regards, Shem, Juba Shem J. Ochuodho, MSc (Eng), PhD, LLD (Hon) Senior Advisor Ministry of Telecom & Postal Services Republic of South Sudan (RSS), Juba Commonwealth Telecom Organization (CTO/RSS) 2010 African Internaut Award Recipient Kenya Community Abroad (KCA) 2007 Excellence Award Winner AfricaOnline 2005 Industry Pioneer Award Recipient Father of Internet in Kenya (Computer Society of Kenya - CSK 2000) Cell: +249-955-021-040/+256-477-232025/+254-725-016679 Skype: shem.ochuodho

1 0

ORANGE FLEXES ITS MIGHT WITH THE LAUNCH OF 21Mbps NETWORK
by Angela Nganga- Mumo 26 Aug '11

26 Aug '11

Hello Listers, Orange flexes its might in data with the launch of 21 Mbps * Most versatile 3G - 21Mbps network in Kenya- the second of its kind in Africa * Open commercially in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu * Network upgrade costs Orange Kshs. 4 billion * Orange unveils range of affordable and sustainable data solutions Nairobi, August 25, 2011... Orange has announced that it is firmly on course to retain its position as the leader in the data market, with the launch of its new 21Mbps network. Telkom Kenya CEO Mickael Ghossein said the new best-in-class network, with speeds of up to 21Mbps, will make it possible for mobile and computer-based users to derive maximum data values from Orange. For the discerning mobile user, Orange has unveiled another first for Kenya by introducing a range of HD Voice devices that would be readily available in all its stores countrywide. HD Voice capability enables customers to experience high definition voice calls, only available through Orange. As the true integrated operator, Orange has also unveiled a range of high speed internet devices for use across all consumer segments and announced a new data tariff structure that will see customers browse the net for as low as 0.40 cts per MB to a maximum of Kshs 4 per MB, for Pay as You Go service. In line with its simplicity proposition, the CEO also confirmed that these rates would be applicable across all its internet platforms. Another first for the market was the launch of a 3G shared broadband Wi-Fi router - Business Broadband which enables 6-10 users to connect to the internet at the same time, via a plug and play device. The Business Broadband becomes the first available wireless router in the market that is compatible to both GSM and CDMA networks and works on both Windows and Mac based operating systems. Orange, which currently has the highest number of wireless broadband subscribers, unveiled its new Internet Everywhere modem that offers speeds of upto 21Mbps that will retail at a most affordable price of Kshs 6,999/-. Customers will also have the ability to manage and control internet abuse through the newly launched parental control software that can be downloaded free of charge from the Orange portal. Ends.../ -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+anganga=orange-tkl.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+anganga=orange-tkl.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke Sent: Alhamisi, Agosti 25, 2011 6:41 PM To: Angela Nganga- Mumo Subject: kictanet Digest, Vol 51, Issue 163 Send kictanet mailing list submissions to kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke You can reach the person managing the list at kictanet-owner(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of kictanet digest..." Today's Topics: 1. Fwd: Extended deadline CALL_FOR_PAPERS ACG13 Conference (waudo siganga) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Thu, 25 Aug 2011 18:44:03 +0300 From: "waudo siganga" <emailsignet(a)mailcan.com> To: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Subject: [kictanet] Fwd: Extended deadline CALL_FOR_PAPERS ACG13 Conference Message-ID: <1314287043.17987.140258133672217(a)webmail.messagingengine.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii" Could be of interest to some, especially those with an interest in creating computer games ----- Original message ----- From: "J.W. Hellemons" <J.W.Hellemons(a)uvt.nl> To: "'Johanna Hellemons'" <J.W.Hellemons(a)tilburguniversity.edu> Cc: "'Aske Plaat'" <aske.plaat(a)gmail.com>, "'Giel van Lankveld'" <gielvanlankveld(a)gmail.com>, "'Remi.Coulom(a)univ-lille3.fr'" <Remi.Coulom(a)univ-lille3.fr> Date: Thu, 25 Aug 2011 13:20:34 +0000 Subject: Extended deadline CALL_FOR_PAPERS ACG13 Conference Dear reader, We extended the deadline for the paper submission to September 10, 2011. Please find in the attach the CfP ACG13 with the new dates. Best regards, Johanna Hellemons

3 3

12th Strathmore University ICT Conference-ICT for Development: People, Policy and Practice
by John Matogo 26 Aug '11

26 Aug '11

Dear colleagues, Strathmore University is once again hosting the annual ICT Conference, this year's theme is ICT for Development: People, Policy and Practice. This is an invitation to you to the conference that will be held on the 2nd and 3rd of September 2011 at the University's Auditorium in Madaraka. More information on the conference is available at this address: http://www.strathmore.edu/ictconference/2011/ or by email to ict_conference(a)strathmore.edu We look forward to your participation. -- Regards, John Matogo

1 0

Open Access Network Models Coming of Age?
by Suhayl Esmailjee 25 Aug '11

25 Aug '11

Wholesale mobile broadband network for SA? Jan Vermeulen <http://mybroadband.co.za/news/author/jan-vermeulen> August 24, 2011 No comments<http://mybroadband.co.za/news/broadband/32424-wholesale-mobile-broadband-ne…> The current model for rolling out mobile broadband in South Africa is inefficient, argues industry players South Africa’s mobile network operators, 8ta<http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/276092-8ta>, Cell C <http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/213919-Cell-C>, MTN<http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/226943-MTN>, and Vodacom <http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/227063-Vodacom>, all build and run their own networks. This involves not only putting up towers in strategic locations (which in itself can be difficult task), but also linking up those towers to a core network. Before you can do anything with a cellular tower however, you need to get a license to use radio frequency (RF) spectrum in particular frequency bands. In South Africa, operators like 8ta, Cell C, MTN, and Vodacom all have such licenses to operate their networks, but industry players are saying this isn’t always the way to most effectively make use of spectrum, especially in the lower frequency bands. Open access radio network Earlier this year (2011), Vodacom CEO Pieter Uys<http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/210077-Pieter-Uys>told MyBroadband that instead of operators battling it out for a slice of scarce spectrum, a single network<http://mybroadband.co.za/news/wireless/20324-open-access-radio-network-for-…>should be built to maximise the value of this resource. This is especially needed in the part of the RF spectrum known as the “digital dividend<http://mybroadband.co.za/news/broadcasting/17725-digital-tv-standards-battl…>” – lower frequency spectrum set to become available when South Africa completes its migration from analogue to digital TV broadcasting. [image: Pieter Uys]<http://mybroadband.co.za/news/broadband/32424-wholesale-mobile-broadband-ne…> Pieter Uys Uys said that all stakeholders, including SA government, IT companies and network operators should work together to get South Africa connected and a single open access network is a sensible way to go about doing so. Wholesale mobile broadband network an attractive option Zoltan Miklos<http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/322353-Zoltan-Miklos>, executive of converged data networks at Telkom<http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/227037-Telkom>Mobile, suggested that a possible scenario for future mobile spectrum allocation is a wholesale model. This would allow providers to buy wholesale services from a mobile operator provider rather than licensing their own spectrum and building their own network including towers. Such a model would need to serve the interest of providing national broadband coverage at competitive prices, Miklos said. [image: Zoltan Miklos]<http://mybroadband.co.za/news/broadband/32424-wholesale-mobile-broadband-ne…> Zoltan Miklos Miklos said that mobile operators are grappling with providing mobile data at prices that recover the significant capital and operational investment of rolling out their own network. One could argue such models would make more efficient use of spectrum and resources, Miklos said. Director-general of the Department of Communications (DoC), Rosey Sekese<http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/337821-Rosey-Sekese>, said that a wholesale model for spectrum is under discussion at the DoC and that they see it as a very attractive option. Sekese said that part of the issue is that incumbent operators with licenses for spectrum want more, but as private businesses they will want to roll out in the most profitable areas first. Typically these areas are found in more urban South Africa. A wholesale model that offers operators spectrum in urban and rural areas could help address this issue. Uys previously said that the lower frequency digital dividend spectrum is particularly suitable to cover rural areas, and as it is hardly profitable for operators to roll out data networks in these areas, a combined effort will make the most sense to operators and South Africa as a whole. Neutral operators the beginning? American Tower Corporation (ATC)<http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/360534-American-Tower-Corporatio…>, a wireless and broadcast telecommunications provider, bought Cell C’s tower infrastructure in 2010 with the aim to offer a “network and service provider agnostic approach” to pave the way “for a more open and competitive market.” According to ATC, they offer an infrastructure sharing model, or Infrastructure as a Services (IaaS) which gives everyone access to the same level and type of geographic coverage. “Infrastructure sharing or, to be more specific in our case, tower sharing, is nothing new,” explained CEO of ATC South Africa, Pieter Nel<http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/229877-Pieter-Nel> . “It has been happening in some form in South Africa for some time now, but we are the first independent, pro-competition service provider to adopt this network agnostic model, which has been steadily gaining popularity in other countries around the world due to the numerous benefits.” According to Nel, the trick to getting this model right is ATC South Africa’s ability to acquire or build out network infrastructure and manage and maintain it in a manner that works out cheaper for MNOs than self-provisioning the same capabilities would. ATC said that they already boast most of the major mobile network operators as clients and are currently in talks with “most of the current and future broadband solution providers.” http://mybroadband.co.za/news/broadband/32424-wholesale-mobile-broadband-ne…

1 0

Fwd: Extended deadline CALL_FOR_PAPERS ACG13 Conference
by waudo siganga 25 Aug '11

25 Aug '11

Could be of interest to some, especially those with an interest in creating computer games ----- Original message ----- From: "J.W. Hellemons" <J.W.Hellemons(a)uvt.nl> To: "'Johanna Hellemons'" <J.W.Hellemons(a)tilburguniversity.edu> Cc: "'Aske Plaat'" <aske.plaat(a)gmail.com>, "'Giel van Lankveld'" <gielvanlankveld(a)gmail.com>, "'Remi.Coulom(a)univ-lille3.fr'" <Remi.Coulom(a)univ-lille3.fr> Date: Thu, 25 Aug 2011 13:20:34 +0000 Subject: Extended deadline CALL_FOR_PAPERS ACG13 Conference Dear reader, We extended the deadline for the paper submission to September 10, 2011. Please find in the attach the CfP ACG13 with the new dates. Best regards, Johanna Hellemons

1 0

Need for Representation
by robert yawe 25 Aug '11

25 Aug '11

Hi, I have been fortunate to attend a number of discussions on the ongoing bills in parliament and it is disappointing that as the ICT fraternity we have missed the opportunity to be enshrined in the new laws as has been done with other groups. A case is point is in the Urban Areas and Cities Bill in relation to the parties to be involved in the conferment of a city, with the vision 2030 objective of making Kenya a knowledge based economy the lack of participation by the ICT fraternity in in this decisions means that the way-leave and related issues that are being experienced today shall continue for the foreseeable future. Here is an extract from the bill; Application for conferment of city status. 8. (1) The board of a municipality may, upon a resolution, apply to the county executive committee for consideration for the conferment of city status. (2) Where the executive committee approves the application, the county governor shall constitute an ad hoc committee to consider the recommendation and advise as appropriate. (3) The ad hoc committee shall comprise of relevant professionals in good standing nominated by the following institutions ― (a) the Institute of Surveyors of Kenya; (b) the Institute of Planners of Kenya; (c) the Architectural Association of Kenya; (d) the Law Society of Kenya; (e) an association of urban areas and cities; (f) the Institute of Public Accountants of Kenya; and (g) the business community. Other areas that are lacking our input is in issues such as the need for GIS without it being make explicit that this must be in digital form. In the Elections Bill 2 areas are wanting for our input one is the format for maintaining the voter register and the other is in the recall of MPs where one of the reasons is not appearing in the constituency for an extended period his utilising tele-presence technology for example or a broadcast media should qualify towards appearance. (2) A member of Parliament may be recalled on any of the following grounds— (a) mismanagement of public resources; (b) desertion of the electorate without reasonable cause, including— (i) continual absence from the constituency or county; The ship has sailed on this one, but the lesson to learn should not be wasted. Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

1 0

COFEK contact information
by Ory Okolloh 25 Aug '11

25 Aug '11

Anyone from COFEK on the list? Trying to get the Sec General's email address so I can send an invitation to an event their way. Ory

4 4

Two Publications: Letter to Prime Minister & Riddles of my Mother
by Matunda Nyanchama 25 Aug '11

25 Aug '11

For those interested, our sister company has recently released the following publications. Letter to the Prime Minister by Justus Siage Riddles of my Mother by Amos Tabalia. Both can be bought online; copies of the former are already available in Kenyan book stores. Have a good day. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Matunda Nyanchama, PhD, CISSP; mnyanchama(a)aganoconsulting.com Agano Consulting Inc.; www.aganoconsulting.com; Twitter: nmatunda; Skype: okiambe ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be prepared to face ICT Security failures & know how to respond when they happen! Call: +1-888-587-1150 or info(a)aganoconsulting.com ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "A bus station is where a bus stops. A train station is where a train stops. On my desk I have a workstation…" - Anonymous ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This e-mail, including attachments, may be privileged and may contain confidential or proprietary information intended only for the addressee(s). Any other distribution, copying, use, or disclosure is unauthorized and strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately by reply e-mail and permanently delete the message, including any attachments, without making a copy. Thank you.

1 0

Digital Villages Visit Embu Aug 26th. Confirmed participants
by warigia bowman 24 Aug '11

24 Aug '11

Here is the confirmed participant list. We have room for one more. Friday 8:30 sharp, silver springs hotel. Bring 500 fuel money (if you can) and some money for lunch. Warigia Bowman AUC Peter Mathara AWCAS Victor Gathara Consultant Andrew Gakiria KIE Mike Njogu from network of nonformal educational institutions Jeff Maina NNEI Barry from Voice of Africa Wainana Mungai Citizen Yours, Rigia On Wed, Aug 24, 2011 at 3:19 PM, warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu>wrote: > Dear friends > > The van appears to be nearly full. We can fit ONE more person in the van on > Friday. Please advise if you are interested. > > We will meet at Silver Springs Hotel at 8:30 a.m. sharp. My cell is > 0720481444. Please be on time, as we have a long day ahead of us. > > Thanks, Rigia > > Warigia Bowman AUC > Peter Mathara AWCAS > Victor Gathara Consultant > Andrew Gakiria KIE > Mike Njogu from network of nonformal educational institutions > Jeff Maina NNEI > Barry from Voice of Africa > Wainana Mungai Citizen > > On Sun, Aug 21, 2011 at 6:45 PM, warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu>wrote: > >> Dear colleagues >> >> I would like to do one final viewing of DVs and pashas before I depart to >> revolutionary Egypt. I have my company's safari van available, so there is >> plenty of room. >> >> *Please let me know if you want to come this Friday, August 26th, 2011.*If you come it would be great if you can pitch in for fuel. I will provide >> the driver and the vehicle. >> >> We will go to Muranga and Embu. >> >> Embu Visit >> >> Pashas >> 2. Gicira Wakurira, embu cty, manyatta const, embu town >> >> Safaricom Tier 1 >> 1. Eagle sight communications, Ndia const., embu town center >> 2. Eim computer systems, manyatta const., embu town >> 3. Kinpost computer center, manyatta const., embu town >> 4. Kinpost cyber, manyatta const., embu town, morning glory plaza, 1st >> floor >> Safaricom Tier 2 >> >> 2. Doka Heartwood, embu town center, igembe >> 3. Eaglesight communications, (also tier 1), kigumo, embu town center >> 5. Eim computer systems (also tier 1), siakago, embu town (safaricom >> question-why is location info different?) >> 10. Harry's stationers, Ishiara, embu >> 11. Scope, Ndia, Embu >> 12. Klassical dealers, Siakagi, Embu town >> 13. Matecom, Tigania East, Embu Town Center >> 14. Netlink data services, igembe, embu town center >> >> Muranga Visit >> >>> >>> *ICT Board Pashas*: >>> >> >> >>> 1) Lucy Kinyanjui, Somewhere in Muranga >>> >>> There is also another pasha in Maragua. >>> >>> Cheers Rigia >>> >> >> >> >

1 0

Where and When to Meet: Digital Villages Visit Muranga and Embu on Aug 26th
by warigia bowman 24 Aug '11

24 Aug '11

Dear friends The van appears to be nearly full. We can fit ONE more person in the van on Friday. Please advise if you are interested. We will meet at Silver Springs Hotel at 8:30 a.m. sharp. My cell is 0720481444. Please be on time, as we have a long day ahead of us. Thanks, Rigia Warigia Bowman AUC Peter Mathara AWCAS Victor Gathara Consultant Andrew Gakiria KIE Mike Njogu from network of nonformal educational institutions Jeff Maina NNEI Barry from Voice of Africa Wainana Mungai Citizen On Sun, Aug 21, 2011 at 6:45 PM, warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu>wrote: > Dear colleagues > > I would like to do one final viewing of DVs and pashas before I depart to > revolutionary Egypt. I have my company's safari van available, so there is > plenty of room. > > *Please let me know if you want to come this Friday, August 26th, 2011.*If you come it would be great if you can pitch in for fuel. I will provide > the driver and the vehicle. > > We will go to Muranga and Embu. > > Embu Visit > > Pashas > 2. Gicira Wakurira, embu cty, manyatta const, embu town > > Safaricom Tier 1 > 1. Eagle sight communications, Ndia const., embu town center > 2. Eim computer systems, manyatta const., embu town > 3. Kinpost computer center, manyatta const., embu town > 4. Kinpost cyber, manyatta const., embu town, morning glory plaza, 1st > floor > Safaricom Tier 2 > > 2. Doka Heartwood, embu town center, igembe > 3. Eaglesight communications, (also tier 1), kigumo, embu town center > 5. Eim computer systems (also tier 1), siakago, embu town (safaricom > question-why is location info different?) > 10. Harry's stationers, Ishiara, embu > 11. Scope, Ndia, Embu > 12. Klassical dealers, Siakagi, Embu town > 13. Matecom, Tigania East, Embu Town Center > 14. Netlink data services, igembe, embu town center > > Muranga Visit > >> >> *ICT Board Pashas*: >> > > >> 1) Lucy Kinyanjui, Somewhere in Muranga >> >> There is also another pasha in Maragua. >> >> Cheers Rigia >> > > >

1 0

Video Conferencing Schools
by Network of non- formal Educational institutions 24 Aug '11

24 Aug '11

6 6

Korogocho Video Conferencing School start
by Network of non- formal Educational institutions 24 Aug '11

24 Aug '11

Jambo Toto is one of the slum schools that have been connected with video conferencing facilities and will start tonight with 25 form one students. The program give a chance to slum children and community to benefit from technology it also reduce on cost and improve on quality of education. Jane Muriuki

1 0

NEW VACANCY: ANTI-PIRACY MANAGER WECA
by stephen mwakesi 23 Aug '11

23 Aug '11

Am sure you all the techies will find this job quite interesting. Please do apply if you think you can handle anti Piracy. Stephen Mwakesi Executive Director, Case Policy Resource Trust ------------------------------ [image: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: image001] [image: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: Description: cid:image004.jpg@01CC2426.DD745E50] *Anti-Piracy Manager* *WECA* *Location* *Nairobi / Johannesburg / Port Louis* */ Lagos or Senegal*** *Hiring Manager* *Tracey Newman*** *Applications to* *Dorcas Phakoe* <:a-dophak@microsoft.com>* * *Application Deadline* *26 August 2011* *The job description is attached* Are you looking for a career that utilizes your passion for our customers? Do you enjoy orchestrating processes across many groups? The Anti-Piracy Manager for Microsoft West, East and Central Africa & Indian Ocean Islands (WECA) is a WECA Central role that may be based in any of the WECA sub-regions (i.e. Nairobi, Johannesburg, Port Louis, Lagos or Senegal). *WECA REFERRAL PROGRAM—$5 000 FOR YOUR SUCCESSFUL REFERRAL!* When it comes to finding the best candidate for the job, sometimes you can’t beat word-of-mouth. And who better to find the best talent for Microsoft, than the people who work here every day! Your referral fee will be paid at the end of the successful candidate’s first month of employment with Microsoft, withholding tax. *Who is eligible to participate?* · All FTE employees in WECA *Who is not eligible to participate?* · Contingent / Vendor staff · Hiring Manager of the position · Members of the WECA LT and Regional LT · Human Resources *What does not qualify for a referral?* · Candidates, currently employed as contingent/vendor staff, converting to a FTE position · Candidates, who are already known to Microsoft because they already have applied for a job · Partner Policy: Current full time employees from Microsoft partners are not eligible as an employee referral. If an employee from a Partner would like to apply for a job at Microsoft, please refer the person to our external career website and the person will be considered on equal term as any other candidate applying for the job. Regards, *Barbara Kgaye* | Staffing Associate NEPA & WECA | Human Resources <v-bganye(a)microsoft.com> [image: Description: Description: Description: Description: allstars on white.png] -- Stephen Mwakesi Cell: +254 723 229 117/ +254 773 804041 Email: smwakesi(a)gmail.com Blog: www.mwakesi.blogspot.com <http://www.mwakesi.blogspot.com>Twitter: twitter.com/mwakesi

1 0

identity.go.ke not working, reprise
by warigia bowman 23 Aug '11

23 Aug '11

Dear Secretary Keter, The email of the director appears to have bounced. Yours, Warigia ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Mail Delivery Subsystem <mailer-daemon(a)googlemail.com> Date: Tue, Aug 23, 2011 at 2:02 PM Subject: Delivery Status Notification (Failure) To: warigia(a)gmail.com Delivery to the following recipient failed permanently: director(a)identity.go.ke Technical details of permanent failure: Google tried to deliver your message, but it was rejected by the recipient domain. We recommend contacting the other email provider for further information about the cause of this error. The error that the other server returned was: 550 550 5.7.1 Unable to relay (state 14). ----- Original message ----- MIME-Version: 1.0 Received: by 10.52.33.36 with SMTP id o4mr2140662vdi.324.1314017017740; Mon, 22 Aug 2011 05:43:37 -0700 (PDT) Sender: warigia(a)gmail.com Received: by 10.52.110.168 with HTTP; Mon, 22 Aug 2011 05:43:37 -0700 (PDT) In-Reply-To: < OF60E989D0.751D1D48-ON432578F4.0041885F-432578F4.00428F1D(a)kenya.go.ke> References: < OF60E989D0.751D1D48-ON432578F4.0041885F-432578F4.00428F1D(a)kenya.go.ke> Date: Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:43:37 +0300 X-Google-Sender-Auth: _RPuHC3IYZykKhgTrmkXN7s6mo4 Message-ID: <CACeY99Rt= Hq2xYV+-vAZeu+Xb3BHbO8OGsZNv7qVzzhnuTPCvA(a)mail.gmail.com> Subject: Re: Identity.go.ke not working From: warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu> To: Joseph.Keter(a)kenya.go.ke Cc: Bitange Ndemo <bndemo(a)information.go.ke>, cgithui(a)yahoo.com, director(a)identity.go.ke Content-Type: multipart/alternative; boundary=20cf3079be92923cd504ab176d00 Dear Secretary Keter Thank you for your kind reply. What I have with me is the waiting card for my sister Patricia Njeri. Her address at the time she applied was P.O. Box 145 Othaya. The waiting card was stamped 154 Municipality Div. Nyeri District. Is this sufficient information, or do you need additional information> Sincerely Yours, Warigia On Mon, Aug 22, 2011 at 3:07 PM, <Joseph.Keter(a)kenya.go.ke> wrote: > Dear Wariga, > > We are in receipt of your concerns on challenges you faced in monitoring > status of processing of national identity card of Patricia Njeri Wairimu. We > shall appreciate if you could give us more particulars especially the > station where Patricia applied for her identity card. Please send her > details to director(a)identity.go.ke for further necessary action. > > Regards. > Mr Joseph K. Keter > ndc(K) > Senior Deputy Secretary, > Ministry of State for Immigration & Registration of Persons, > Nyayo House,20th Floor, > P.O. Box 30395-00100, > Nairobi, Kenya. > Phone : +254202222022 > Tel/Fax: +254202229349 > Mobile : +254722135090 > Email : joecketer(a)yahoo.co.uk > Website:www.mirp.go.ke >

1 0

1st International Conference on Emerging and Future ICTs (ICEFICT 2011) - Observations
by Kamotho Njenga 23 Aug '11

23 Aug '11

Hello friends, The 1st International conference on emerging and future ICTs (ICEFICT 2011) held on August 11-12 attracted delegates from across the globe for two full days of lively discussion and debate. Majorly the focus was on emergent technologies and how the ICT community as well as the wider society can position itself in light of the evolving opportunities and challenges. The conference presented a forum for industry players, scholars, researchers and others to discuss ICT oriented matters and to make recommendations for the future. As expected numerous forward looking observations arose. Some of the observations requiring policy attention (Not in particular order) include: - Government investments in ICT have been dramatic. The MOIC has demonstrated high zeal in executing its mandate. To realize full benefits, mechanisms for tracking progress are required - There is gradual explosion of ICT applications for almost all sectors- This implies a need to address the seemingly low absorption capacity for emergent ICT innovations especially the mobile apps. How do we spur the demand side? Development should be matched with that of implementation failure to which apathy will start creeping in amongst young innovators. - People/Public/Private sector partnerships are very minimal within the Kenyan ICT sector. Private players are over-emphatic on returns and are doing little to improve the overall landscape. Where existent most of the partnerships are powered by multinationals - Emergence of alternative regional centers of excellence such as Rwanda, Mauritius etc means that Kenya should do more to attract and maintain FDI attention - The highly hyped BPO sector is yet to gain a firm industry footing - Systems security remains a paramount issue of concern to all stakeholders - Access, capacity and affordability gaps still require to be addressed. Over 80% of ICT service beneficiaries are in urban areas. Same case for skills distribution. Majority of rural Kenyans may not distinguish between a mouse as the rodent and a mouse as the computer device. Some even believe that they can click better using the mouth than using the mouse. - There are multiple government organs dealing with ICT. ICT Board, Directorate of E-government, the Ministry itself. Some clarity of functions is quite essential so that people know which service or request to make where - Need for research based approach to measuring impact of ICT action and policies-Time based metrics to ascertain degrees of success and failure of policy investments - Develop clear policy on ICT research. Consistent monitoring and reporting on ICT projects and progress is mandatory for the dynamic sector. A certain budgetary percentage should be devoted to research and monitoring activities - A glaring need to bridge between academia and industry. Academia should help to conceptualize and simplify complex and abstract problems. Industry should focus on generating working and relevant solutions. - The internet signal will remain available and free of government control- Assurance by John Walubengo our AfriNIC Ambassador based on orders from above him - "Innovate or Perish" was the parting shot by the Keynote Speaker, Hon. Minister Sam Poghisio Some of the conference presentations are available at www.ictak.or.ke Kamotho Njenga

1 0

nairobicity.go.ke - expired telephony -- sms short codes?
by S.Murigi Muraya 23 Aug '11

23 Aug '11

nairobicity.go.ke has some interesting information. Noticed some outdated emergency telephone numbers though.The site was up this morning. Down now. Could be up later. No CCoN telephone numbers are listed. http://www.nairobicity.go.ke/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=6… Earlier this year after discovering CCN sms short codes were not working went to the CCoN. Was informed the CCoN has no telephony -- something to do with non payment. They use personal mobiles there. Hope "commissions" required -- up to 40% if not more -- are not keeping decent technical firms from deploying ICT at the CCoN.. Without working contacts, how does the public inform the CCoN about poor physical planning without having to go to their physical locations / stations? http://allafrica.com/stories/201106230818.html

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Identity.go.ke not working August 22, 2011
by meshack emakunat 23 Aug '11

23 Aug '11

Hi all, i read from the post and i wonder how the planning was. From the little knowledge i have on ict policy and strategic planning proper e readiness assessment should have been conducted and not only from a consumers point of view but more greatly from a government perspective (the service provider). I think the problem is that the government has rushed its citizen to consume the service that it cannot justify its ingridient. why dont they plan the whole thing afresh.

2 1

Identity.go.ke not working August 22, 2011
by warigia bowman 22 Aug '11

22 Aug '11

Dear Kictanet friends Is it possible that open government is not working very effectively? I am not trying to be negative. Just reporting an actual problem I am facing. I am attempting to assist my sister in receiving her identity card. Her names are Patricia Njeri Wairimu. Her home district is Nyeri, She received a waiting card with serial number 2278757153. We took her to the Nyeri office in person to pick up the card and the officers said "it was not there." I then went to http://www.identity.go.ke/index.php?option=com_php&Itemid=122 and fed in her serial number as requested (the first nine digits). I received no acknowledgment, and nothing happened.I do not know if the online system is not working or what the problem is. I then emailed dr.nyeri(a)identity.go.ke, and pro.central(a)identity.go.ke which are the emails on the website so that they could advise where this card is, and do the work on your end, so that we may know where to pick it up. BOTH of the emails bounced back immediately as a permanent failure. This is not an encouraging development.. . . . Does anyone have any thoughts on the breakdown of the digital side of identity.go.ke? Sincerely, Warigia

6 13

Re: [kictanet] Identity.go.ke not working August 22, 2011
by warigia bowman 22 Aug '11

22 Aug '11

Hi Emmanuel You are completely right. Of course, if I am experiencing this problem and cannot make progress, this must be a problem bedeviling many Kenyan citizens. We should not have to belong to Kictanet, or have access to a PS to get a simple document. You have raised a crucial observation. Asante ndugu. Yours, Warigia On Mon, Aug 22, 2011 at 2:50 PM, Emmanuel Khisa <oloo.khisa(a)googlemail.com>wrote: > Let me throw in a curve ball here... > > What if Rigia's sister wasn't her sister? Better still what if Rigia wasn't > on this list. > > Just a small challenge to our beloved and already overworked PS (what with > ladies accosting him from the gym and all) could you please atleast initiate > a round table of these ministries and get their public access systems > working? > > That system at Immigration has been down for as long as I can recall, > almost half a year now. There needs to be an urgent and lasting solution > especially now that ID issuance has resumed. > > My two cents. > > EK > > On Mon, Aug 22, 2011 at 1:35 PM, warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu>wrote: > >> Dear PS >> >> I am most grateful for your assistance. I also think that you are actually >> helping the PS of immigration to make sure his agency is actually working >> effectively. >> >> Ninashukuru sana. >> >> Yours, Rigia >> >> On Mon, Aug 22, 2011 at 1:26 PM, Bitange Ndemo <bndemo(a)information.go.ke>wrote: >> >>> Warigia,**** >>> >>> Pole. I shall forward your e-mail to PS Immigration and have him >>> respond. **** >>> >>> ** ** >>> >>> Regards**** >>> >>> ** ** >>> >>> ** ** >>> >>> Ndemo.**** >>> >>> ** ** >>> >>> ** ** >>> >>> ** ** >>> >>> ** ** >>> >>> *From:* kictanet-bounces+bndemo=information.go.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke[mailto: >>> kictanet-bounces+bndemo=information.go.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke] *On >>> Behalf Of *warigia bowman >>> *Sent:* Monday, August 22, 2011 9:40 AM >>> *To:* Bitange Ndemo >>> *Cc:* customer.care(a)identity.go.ke; KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions >>> *Subject:* [kictanet] Identity.go.ke not working August 22, 2011**** >>> >>> ** ** >>> >>> Dear Kictanet friends >>> >>> Is it possible that open government is not working very effectively? I am >>> not trying to be negative. Just reporting an actual problem I am facing. >>> **** >>> >>> >>> I am attempting to assist my sister in receiving her identity card. Her >>> names are Patricia Njeri Wairimu. Her home district is Nyeri, >>> >>> She received a waiting card with serial number 2278757153. We took her to >>> the Nyeri office in person to pick up the card and the officers said "it was >>> not there." >>> >>> I then went to >>> http://www.identity.go.ke/index.php?option=com_php&Itemid=122 >>> >>> and fed in her serial number as requested (the first nine digits). I >>> received no acknowledgment, and nothing happened.I do not know if the online >>> system is not working or what the problem is. >>> >>> I then emailed dr.nyeri(a)identity.go.ke, and pro.central(a)identity.go.kewhich are the emails on the website so that they could advise where this >>> card is, and do the work on your end, so that we may know where to pick it >>> up. >>> >>> BOTH of the emails bounced back immediately as a permanent failure. >>> >>> This is not an encouraging development.. . . . >>> >>> Does anyone have any thoughts on the breakdown of the digital side of >>> identity.go.ke? >>> >>> Sincerely, Warigia >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> **** >>> >>> ** ** >>> ------------------------------ >>> >>> This e-mail message has been scanned for Viruses and Content and cleared >>> by *MailMarshal ***** >>> >>> **** >>> ------------------------------ >>> >>> ------------------------------ >>> >>> This e-mail message has been scanned for Viruses and Content and cleared >>> by *MailMarshal * >>> >>> ------------------------------ >>> >>> ------------------------------ >>> *Attention: * >>> This e-mail is privileged and confidential. If you are not the >>> intended recipient please delete the message and notify the sender. >>> Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author. >>> >>> This e-mail message has been scanned and cleared by *MailMarshal * >>> >>> >>> Ministry of information and Communication >>> ------------------------------ >>> >>> ------------------------------ >>> *Attention: * >>> This e-mail is privileged and confidential. If you are not the >>> intended recipient please delete the message and notify the sender. >>> Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author. >>> >>> This e-mail message has been scanned and cleared by *MailMarshal * >>> >>> >>> Ministry of information and Communication >>> ------------------------------ >>> >>> ------------------------------ >>> >>> This e-mail message has been scanned for Viruses and Content and cleared >>> by *MailMarshal * >>> >>> ------------------------------ >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> kictanet mailing list >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >>> >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/warigia%40gmail.com >>> >>> >>> The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform >>> for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and >>> regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT >>> sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. >>> >>> KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors >>> online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, >>> share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do >>> not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >>> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> kictanet mailing list >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/oloo.khisa%40gmail.com >> >> >> The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform >> for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and >> regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT >> sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. >> >> KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors >> online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, >> share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do >> not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >> > > > > -- > > "One hour per day of study will put you at the top of your field within > three years. Within five years you'll be a national authority. In seven > years, you can be one of the best people in the world at what you do."Earl Nightingale > 1921-1989 > * > Oloo Khisa > P.O. Box 24324-00100 > Nairobi > 0721321086/0734321086 > http://ke.linkedin.com/in/olookhisa* > >

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Sponsor a Subject through Video Conferencing
by Network of non- formal Educational institutions 22 Aug '11

22 Aug '11

Dear All N-NFEI is offering secondary education through video conferencing in various social halls within Nairobi. We would wish to invite companies to sponsor a subject or advertise in the program Find attached more details Jane Muriuki --- On Mon, 8/22/11, Network of non- formal Educational institutions <nnfeischools(a)yahoo.com> wrote: From: Network of non- formal Educational institutions <nnfeischools(a)yahoo.com> Subject: [kictanet] Video Conferencing Schools To: nnfeischools(a)yahoo.com Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Date: Monday, August 22, 2011, 11:59 AM -----Inline Attachment Follows----- _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/nnfeischools%40yahoo.c… The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.

1 0

Counties & Technology
by robert yawe 22 Aug '11

22 Aug '11

Hi, With reference to an article carried in the Business Daily of 19th Aug, 2011 on the 5.6B government funded fibre to 37 counties is there a strategy for making sure that the counties implement technology solutions from the onset? The article seems to also imply that this action by the government will result in direct competition for the other providers yet on this forum we where told that the government together with the internet providers where already in discussion about how they would share NOFBI. Is this new initiative part of NOFBI and therefore will be subject to the continuing discussions or is it separate? I also noted during the UON exhibition and conference on architecture and urbanisation that the ministry of public works are working on a prototype county headquarters design including the county assembly meeting areas. How can we as the ICT fraternity make ourselves relevant in making sure that the technology component is incorporated so as to increase the effectiveness of the county governments? I see great opportunities in developing applications for electronic voting, attendance records, electronic discussion records and streaming sites of live debate. We have an opportunity to develop applications that can be tested in the 47 counties in readiness for roll out to the region as they all rush to replicate the Kenyan model. Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

4 4

Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 51, Issue 139
by meshack emakunat 21 Aug '11

21 Aug '11

Fast of all, congratulation to Ory Okolloh and Grace Bomu for being africas most influencial person. Thank for the kind of leadership you have shown the community. meshack

1 0

Possible Digital Villages Visit Muranga and Embu on Aug 26th
by warigia bowman 21 Aug '11

21 Aug '11

Dear colleagues I would like to do one final viewing of DVs and pashas before I depart to revolutionary Egypt. I have my company's safari van available, so there is plenty of room. *Please let me know if you want to come this Friday, August 26th, 2011.* If you come it would be great if you can pitch in for fuel. I will provide the driver and the vehicle. We will go to Muranga and Embu. Embu Visit Pashas 2. Gicira Wakurira, embu cty, manyatta const, embu town Safaricom Tier 1 1. Eagle sight communications, Ndia const., embu town center 2. Eim computer systems, manyatta const., embu town 3. Kinpost computer center, manyatta const., embu town 4. Kinpost cyber, manyatta const., embu town, morning glory plaza, 1st floor Safaricom Tier 2 2. Doka Heartwood, embu town center, igembe 3. Eaglesight communications, (also tier 1), kigumo, embu town center 5. Eim computer systems (also tier 1), siakago, embu town (safaricom question-why is location info different?) 10. Harry's stationers, Ishiara, embu 11. Scope, Ndia, Embu 12. Klassical dealers, Siakagi, Embu town 13. Matecom, Tigania East, Embu Town Center 14. Netlink data services, igembe, embu town center Muranga Visit > > *ICT Board Pashas*: > > 1) Lucy Kinyanjui, Somewhere in Muranga > > There is also another pasha in Maragua. > > Cheers Rigia >

1 0

Bitange for President? Education
by Solomon Mbũrũ Kamau 21 Aug '11

21 Aug '11

Dakitari, As a player in the education sector, specifically the adult and continuing education sub-sector, I would like to know how you'll make it more relevant to meet the emerging issues. Generally, adult education until recently, was a bouncing ball from one ministry to the other - Culture & Social Services, Labour and Human Resource Develpment, Gender and Children Services etc - that it lost relevance. The rrason as to why adult education fizzled in Kenya in the 1980s was primarily political. Illiterate politicians found themselvees to political offices demotivating the moral of the few adult learners. Today, the sub-sector is placed in the right ministry, MoE and a full Directorate put in place. As a member of a Technical Working Group reviewing the End Decade Assessment of Education For All EFA EDA) there is one thing I can point out, is lack of integratd system of data collection at the field and linking it with the Hea Office. There is a kind of 'closed' access to data that the officer hold, because there is a fear incrimination could be in the offing. ICT is not even part of the system. Adult education officers in the field have little or no basic computer application. How would you make it possible for this to be realized because we are soon going to discard pens and chalks for computers? I'm also dismayed to note that the Education Review Task Force on the theme of ICT, just copy pasted the findings, from some document done in 2009. Becauase it keeeps on pointing that Financial year 09/10 where the government earmaked to provide about 213 school with computers, yet the Task Force was constituted in 2011. Anyway, how will your 'government', using the NOFBI ( or any such platform), make ICT get into the remotest part of Kenya? (This week I'll be in West Pokot for a week-long adult learners week and I'm sure computers are not a priority even at the primary school) The Adult education curriculum (known as Adult Basic Education & Training, ABET 1,2 and 3) doesn't even point at ICT, in details. Thanks Regards, Solomon

1 0

PRESS RELEASE ON DIASPORA VOTING & REGISTRATION
by Shem Ochuodho 21 Aug '11

21 Aug '11

Friends, A statement from the Diaspora Alliance and the G-47 Re Diaspora Voting, Registration and Representation. Please circulate widely. Warm regards, Shem Moderator (Interim)/G-47

1 0

Elimu Portal - typos
by Ory Okolloh 21 Aug '11

21 Aug '11

This is a great initiative by the Ministry of Education, BUT why so many typos all over the website (I'm not even going to touch the poor design) - surely this is sending the wrong kind of message when a website focused on education and teachers has so many errors. E.g. "National Educational Portal for Kenya NEPK.<http://www.elimuportal.net/>This is an initiative for Teachers by Teachers to help educators share *Leaning* Materials, Lesson Plans amongst others to aid in the capacity development amongst Teachers. Teachers can *occasionslly* get *syllubus* updates from this portal and ensure they are practicing using up to date materials" PS Ndemo, any idea can we direct our complaints? Best, Ory

5 4

Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 51, Issue 139
by Ory Okolloh 21 Aug '11

21 Aug '11

Thanks all, I'm in great company! And it looks like Elimu Portal is down - hopefully the typos are being fixed: http://elimuportal.net/ Ory On Sat, Aug 20, 2011 at 1:24 PM, <kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke>wrote: > Send kictanet mailing list submissions to > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to > kictanet-request(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > You can reach the person managing the list at > kictanet-owner(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific > than "Re: Contents of kictanet digest..." > > > Today's Topics: > > 1. Re: Elimu Portal - typos (Zachary Ochieng) > 2. Forbes 20 youngest power women in Africa (Grace Mutung'u (Bomu)) > 3. Re: Forbes 20 youngest power women in Africa (warigia bowman) > 4. Re: Forbes 20 youngest power women in Africa (warigia bowman) > 5. Re: Forbes 20 youngest power women in Africa (Josiah Mugambi) > > > ---------------------------------------------------------------------- > > Message: 1 > Date: Sat, 20 Aug 2011 02:20:51 -0700 (PDT) > From: Zachary Ochieng <zzachmbir(a)yahoo.com> > To: warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Elimu Portal - typos > Message-ID: > <1313832051.16357.YahooMailClassic(a)web130111.mail.mud.yahoo.com> > Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8" > > With this kind of content, it is little wonder that some of the graduates > our institutions continue to churn out can hardly construct a sentence in > either English or fluent Kiswahili. > Zach. > > Be the change you want to see in the world > > Zachary Ochieng > Editor/Journalist > Cell: +254 726 473 388 > Blog: http://ochiengzach.blogspot.com > Twitter: @OchiengZach > > > --- On Sat, 20/8/11, warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu> wrote: > > From: warigia bowman <warigia(a)aucegypt.edu> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Elimu Portal - typos > To: zzachmbir(a)yahoo.com > Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Date: Saturday, 20 August, 2011, 17:46 > > Ory > > Thank you for pointing this out. We really need better quality control on > some of these GoK initatives. > > The errors are LOL! if they were not so totally tragic . . . This should go > on one of those Epic Fail sites. > > > Rigia > > On Mon, Aug 15, 2011 at 5:30 PM, Ory Okolloh <ookolloh(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > This is a great initiative by the Ministry of Education, BUT why so many > typos all over the website (I'm not even going to touch the poor design) - > surely this is sending the wrong kind of message when a website focused on > education and teachers has so many errors. > > > > E.g. "National Educational Portal for Kenya NEPK. > This is an initiative for Teachers by Teachers to help educators share > Leaning Materials, Lesson Plans amongst others to aid in the capacity > development amongst Teachers. Teachers can occasionslly get syllubus > updates from this portal and ensure they are practicing using up to date > materials" > > PS Ndemo, any idea can we direct our complaints? > > > Best, > > Ory > > > _______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/warigia%40gmail.com > > > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. > > > > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. > > > > > -----Inline Attachment Follows----- > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/zzachmbir%40yahoo.com > > The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for > people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and > regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT > sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. > > KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors > online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, > share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do > not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >

1 0

Forbes 20 youngest power women in Africa
by Grace Mutung'u (Bomu) 20 Aug '11

20 Aug '11

The 20 youngest power women in Africa are in technology, economy and business. And one of them is even here on the list! http://www.forbes.com/sites/mfonobongnsehe/2011/08/18/the-20-youngest-power… -- Grace L.N. Mutung'u (Bomu) Kenya Skype: gracebomu Twitter: GraceMutung'u (Bomu)

3 3

East African Organization Receives International Library Award
by Alice Munyua 20 Aug '11

20 Aug '11

Congratulations James and your team at ALIN for this well deserved award ---------------------------------- *East African Organization Receives International Library Award For Creating Knowledge Centers in Rural Areas* /$1 million Access to Learning Award recognizes Arid Lands Information Network for providing access to information and technology in hard-to-reach communities/ SEATTLE – The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation today presented its 2011 Access to Learning Award of $1 million to the Arid Lands Information Network (ALIN), which provides knowledge and information through a variety of innovative channels in remote communities throughout Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Members of these communities use the technology and other tools at ALIN’s Knowledge Centers to gain information to improve their health, increase their incomes, and better their lives. Microsoft, a partner of the foundation in its efforts to help public libraries connect people with relevant technology and skills, will provide ALIN with a donation of over US$270,000 worth of software and technology training curriculum to help the organization serve the local community. ALIN’s 12 Knowledge Centers—known as Maarifa Centers—focus on providing practical information, particularly in the area of agricultural development. The vast majority of people in these regions are small-scale farmers who need information about issues such as drought, pests, and finding markets for their crops. The centers offer information geared toward the communities’ specific needs. “We understand that each community we serve is different, and each individual we serve is different,” said James Nguo, director of ALIN. “Some communities need information about water harvesting, while others are dealing with a particular kind of pest. We’ve also found that while some people have taken to the computers and technology, others prefer live demonstrations or lectures in their native language.” In addition to providing agricultural information to farmers, Maarifa Centers address health issues such as HIV/AIDS and malaria, ways to improve people’s daily lives such as how to create an energy efficient biogas stove, and administrative requirements such as applying for an official identity card or getting tax exempt status. Some people have used the centers to create groups for the disabled, earn advanced degrees online, or create thriving small businesses. “Thousands of people in these remote communities of Eastern Africa are improving their lives through the information available at these centers,” said Deborah Jacobs, director of the Global Libraries initiative for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, at an award ceremony in San Juan, Puerto Rico. “All knowledge workers can learn from this inventive model of delivering targeted, customized information.” All Maarifa Centers offer free access to computers and the Internet and provide free training in how to use them. Because there is only one paid staff member at each center, ALIN relies on volunteer facilitators to help provide core services. These volunteers receive training in a variety of key areas, including computer skills, good farming practices, treatment of medical conditions, and communications skills, which they use to educate others in their communities. For example, ALIN and the staff of the Kyuso Maarifa Center formed a group of seven farmers to participate in a pilot project that sent them to other parts of the country where they could learn techniques to deal with their extremely dry, arid climate. When the farmers returned to Kyuso, they implemented those techniques and were able to significantly improve their yields. The farmers worked with the staff of the Maarifa Center to pass these innovations on to others, through demonstrations, field days, videos, podcasts, and articles in ALIN’s Baobab magazine. One community pastor even preached about the new techniques in church. “From Baobab and from the information here in our Maarifa Center, I got to know about water harvesting. I came to know more about good agricultural practices from other areas,” said Ali Hassan Mulei, one of the seven farmers who participated in the pilot project. “During the dry seasons you get nothing from the farm. But I prepare the land during the dry season. I get some cash from my business, go to the farm, make terraces, make structures for water harvesting, and I wait for the rainy season to come.” The foundation's annual Access to Learning Award recognizes the innovative efforts of libraries and similar organizations outside the United States in providing free access to computers and the Internet. It is awarded by the foundation’s Global Libraries initiative, which works to open the world of knowledge, information, and opportunity to help improve the lives of millions of people. ALIN will use its award to expand its network of Knowledge Centers, upgrade its hardware and software, increase the number of computers available to its users, and expand on the training and education provided to its community knowledge facilitators. ALIN also hopes to create an innovation center to advance ideas in information and communication technology. ### *Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation* Guided by the belief that every life has equal value, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation works to help all people lead healthy, productive lives. In developing countries, it focuses on improving people’s health and giving them the chance to lift themselves out of hunger and extreme poverty. In the United States, it seeks to ensure that all people—especially those with the fewest resources—have access to the opportunities they need to succeed in school and life. Based in Seattle, Washington, the foundation is led by CEO Jeff Raikes and Co-chair William H. Gates Sr., under the direction of Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffett. Learn more at www.gatesfoundation.org <http://gatesfoundation.pr-optout.com/Url.aspx?521304x191481x599596> or join the conversation at Facebook <http://gatesfoundation.pr-optout.com/Url.aspx?521304x191480x79744> and Twitter <http://gatesfoundation.pr-optout.com/Url.aspx?521304x191479x272675>. For high resolution images and broadcast quality footage, please visit www.gatesfoundation.org/press-room/Pages/news-market.aspx <http://gatesfoundation.pr-optout.com/Url.aspx?521304x191478x465604>. *Contact:* Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Phone: +1.206.709.3400 E-mail: media(a)gatesfoundation.org <mailto:media@gatesfoundation.org> If you would rather not receive future communications from Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, let us know by clicking here. <http://gatesfoundation.pr-optout.com/OptOut.aspx?521304x19839x63493x1x39718…> Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, PO Box 23350, Seattle, WA 98102 United States

2 1

Fwd: [ISOC_KE] ISOC Meeting: Live Now
by Barrack Otieno 19 Aug '11

19 Aug '11

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Paul M <paulitrix(a)gmail.com> Date: Fri, Aug 19, 2011 at 11:48 AM Subject: [ISOC_KE] ISOC Meeting: Live Now To: isoc(a)orion.my.co.ke Dear listers, The ISOC meeting has commenced. We dearly regret the state of our audio. Otherwise you can follow remotely on: https://freetrial.webex.com/freetrial/j.php?ED=152709792&UID=494663702&PW=N… -- :-) Paul M _______________________________________________ isoc mailing list isoc(a)orion.my.co.ke http://orion.my.co.ke/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/isoc -- Barrack O. Otieno Afriregister Ltd (Kenya) www.afrire <http://www.afriregister.com>gister.bi, www.afriregister.com<http://www.afriergister.com> <http://www.afriregister.com>ICANN accredited registrar +254721325277 +254-20-2498789 Skype: barrack.otieno

1 0

Uni City Vs. Konza
by robert yawe 18 Aug '11

18 Aug '11

Hi Listers, On Friday I past by Kenyatta University (which for some reason the map at the iHub refers to as Jomo Kenyatta University), I was greeted by a large poster, most likely bigger than the one at Konza, advertising something called the Uni City. I have searched the web but there is scanty if any information, the university web site has even less information about the project than the K24 site. All that is beside the point, I did a quick analysis of such a project and the effect it would have on the Konza. A quick Googleearth search revels that KU has a lot of free land that can accommodate a substantially large city, in addition across the road is a large chunk of land owned by BrookSide which would act very well as an overflow of the developments. The area around KU already has accommodation, they are putting up a large teaching hospital, it is less than 50 kilometres away from JKIA, very close to the soon to be developed airport in Kakuzi, is on a superhighway, is surrounded by good recreation facilities and last but not least is within a university (JKUAT is just up the road and USIU & KCA are down the road). Uni City is the to kill for location for the new Silicon Savannah ready to role out tomorrow, sorry I meant yesterday. The intellectuals, very many in one location, at KU are not doing conferences or touring the world to meet foreign experts but instead are out there in execution mode, hawacheki na watu. If the same concept is replicated at Kabarak, RIAT, Maseno, Moi and others what is the need for Konza? Konza is based on the mainframe approach, the world has gone distributed systems, wireless and cloud why the disconnect? Regards PS. Daktari, maybe the threat you had issued once to turn the site at Konza into a holding ground for KMC may actually come to pass. Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

3 3

ISOC Kenya First Meeting Remote Participation Correct Details
by Barrack Otieno 18 Aug '11

18 Aug '11

Members , This is the right information for the online participation. On Thu, Aug 18, 2011 at 12:25 PM, <messenger(a)webex.com> wrote: > > > To invite others to join, copy and paste everything below into your > invitation. > ------------------------------------------------------- > Meeting information > ------------------------------------------------------- > Topic: ISOC Kenya First Meeting > Date: Friday, August 19, 2011 > Time: 10:30 am, Nairobi Time (Nairobi, GMT+03:00) > Meeting Number: 735 242 892 > Meeting Password: isoc > > ------------------------------------------------------- > To start or join the online meeting > ------------------------------------------------------- > Go to > https://freetrial.webex.com/freetrial/j.php?ED=152709792&UID=494663702&PW=N… > > ------------------------------------------------------- > Audio conference information > ------------------------------------------------------- > Call-in toll number (US/Canada): 1-650-429-3300 > > Access code:735 242 892 > > ------------------------------------------------------- > For assistance > ------------------------------------------------------- > 1. Go to https://freetrial.webex.com/freetrial/mc > 2. On the left navigation bar, click "Support". > To update this meeting to your calendar program (for example Microsoft > Outlook), click this link: > > https://freetrial.webex.com/freetrial/j.php?ED=152709792&UID=494663702&ICS=… > > To check whether you have the appropriate players installed for UCF > (Universal Communications Format) rich media files, go to > https://freetrial.webex.com/freetrial/systemdiagnosis.php. > > http://www.webex.com > > CCM:+16504293300x735242892# > > IMPORTANT NOTICE: This WebEx service includes a feature that allows audio > and any documents and other materials exchanged or viewed during the session > to be recorded. You should inform all meeting attendees prior to recording > if you intend to record the meeting. Please note that any such recordings > may be subject to discovery in the event of litigation. > -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254-20-2498789 Skype: barrack.otieno

1 0

ISOC Meet up 19.08 2011 (11.00 am - 1pm) at the i Hub
by Barrack Otieno 18 Aug '11

18 Aug '11

Dear members, Just a reminder on the above mentioned meeting, remote participation will be available via WEBEX and Skype for those who will not be able to make it physically to the meeting venue. Let us keep time, the agenda will be as follows: 11.00 - 11 .30 : - Introduction by members present 11.30 - 11.40: - Guest Speaker Christine Sägesser Baethge Internet Society Chapter Formations Manager ( Remotely) 11.40 - 12.00 :- Q and A 12.00 - 12: 30 Discussion on the Chapter Formation Process 12:30 - 13:00 Q and A, the way forwad Kind Regards -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254-20-2498789 Skype: barrack.otieno

1 0

Nigeria launches two new satellites into space http://aptantech.com/?p=200
by Michael Ouma 18 Aug '11

18 Aug '11

FYI: Nigeria launches two new satellites into space http://aptantech.com/?p=200 Michael Ouma Journalist Kenya Tel:+254-725-537823 "Do not go where the path may lead, but go instead where there is no path and leave a trail," - Ralph Waldo Emerson

1 0

Warigia Bowman shared an album with you.
by Warigia Bowman 17 Aug '11

17 Aug '11

My trip to the coast was for pleasure, not business, so I only visited one pasha. It had not yet opened, but had promise. Watamu is generally great, for those who have not been. https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/sredir?uname=warigia&target=ALBUM&id=564191…

1 0

ICT Board Pashas and Digital Villages Coast
by Warigia Bowman 17 Aug '11

17 Aug '11

Hi all According to my source documents there are three pashas on the coast. I was on the coast visiting my husband's mother, and also celebrating our 7th wedding anniversary. I managed to visit 1 of the three pashas. I conducted a complete and interesting interview with the pasha owner, and also visited his site, which was actually in Watamu, not Malindi. Photos to follow. Thanks to Kwame Shiroya and Victor Gathara for helping me run down the pashas. I did not visit any tier 2 centers, because I was with my children, and finding the tier 2 centers can be a wild goose chase. Pashas 1.Paul Onyango Owino, Akaloleni nector pasha center, Kilifi, Kaloleni, Kaloleni 2. Walad Ahmed Walaad, Tasah Heel Shopping Center, Kilifi, Malindi, Malindi, (Actually Watamu) (VISITED) 3. Eric wesonga simiyu, No name, Mombasa, Likoni, Mombasa Town Safaricom Tier 1 No centers Safaricom Tier 2 Ngarua Transporters Mombasa, Malindi mombasa, Malindi wel up logistics msa. migadini mombasa, changamwe One thing that I learned is that Kilifi county is HUGE, and very poor. Luckily, there has been enough rain lately, so people are not starving, but they are living in deep rural conditions. If anyone on this list lives on the coast, and wants to take a look at the remaining pashas or DVs, let me know. warigia(a)gmail.com

1 0

Why Social Impact Investing Is A Crock
by Agosta Liko 17 Aug '11

17 Aug '11

http://www.fastcompany.com/1761606/why-social-impact-investing-is-a-crock Why Social Impact Investing Is A Crock By Anya Kamenetz <http://www.fastcompany.com/user/105230> Over the last decade the world of do-gooding has seemingly been taken over by MBAs. Social entrepreneurship, a field encompassing both mission-driven businesses and entrepreneurial nonprofits, professes to bring the efficiency, rigor, and cold, hard metrics of business to the most important causes on the planet. Does it really? Not so much, says Dean Karlan, author of the recent book *More Than Good Intentions*. "The social entrepreneurship world is in a weird spot, to be honest with you. It’s a world full of rhetoric about impact investing, yet I have very rarely seen an investor actually take that seriously. When you look at the actual analysis it lacks rigor." He distinguishes between the type of scientific research done by his lab, *Innovations for Poverty Action * [1], with trials complete with control groups, and the type of data collection done in the vast majority of the nonprofit world, which is nothing more than a "monitoring exercise." "Take microcredit. What they do is they track how many borrowers, what their repayment was, and whether the businesses grew over time. That is not telling you your impact at all because you don’t know what would have happened if you didn’t lend." Though he doesn't single them out by name, Karlan's critique points to behemoths such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the largest grantmaking institution in the U.S. "A lot of money comes from groups that have used quantitative tools in the dotcom world, and they push toward collecting data that doesn’t necessarily answer the question. Now you’ve burdened your organization with data collection so you can feel rigorous." At the same time, he says, the cost of doing the kind of randomized, controlled impact studies that his organization conducts can often be prohibitive, particularly for social enterprises that are tacking for growth and "sustainability" (meaning profitability). "Put on your investor hat. If you want to put a million dollars into a business, are you going to put 33% of that into an impact study? That blows up your return. As a result, I’ve seen very few businesses that are being pushed forward as social entrepreneurship that undergo simultaneous rigorous evaluation." Still, Karlan does see some bright spots on the horizon as his work and that of Esther Duflo's Poverty Action Lab--which also does scientific assessments of poverty interventions--grows in popular acclaim. "There’s serious excitement and enthusiasm about impact evaulation among the biggies like Gates, Hewlett, Ford, the World Bank. It’s not unanimous--we still get pushback and some are more enthused than others. But many are starting to use impact evaluation to figure out how we should spend the next $100 billion over the next 10 years." *Read more about Esther Duflo's assessment of social impact in this month's Life in Beta column [2]*.

2 1

Dot Africa Debate
by Norman Boinett 17 Aug '11

17 Aug '11

A new blog entry has been added to ACP11 ICT Strategy F Hi everyone! Please find the call for comments on the 2nd version of the '.Africa' debate. The debate is being hosted at http://discuss.diplomacy.edu/dotafrica. The full story describing this initiative is available at http://www.diplomacy.edu/ig/newsitem.asp?id=2515. The online debate should be of interest to us, especially those of us in Africa. All inputs and contributors' names will be included in a paper which will be presented during the 6th IGF in Nairobi. Regards, Norman -- *“And one should bear in mind that there is nothing more difficult to execute, more dubious of success, nor more dangerous to administer than to introduce a new order of things; for he who introduces it has all those who profit from the old order as his enemies,and he has only lukewarm allies in all those who might profit from the new. This lukewarmness partly stems from fear of their adversaries . . . and partly from the skepticism of men, who do not truly believe in new things unless they have actually had personal experience of them.” * (From Chapter VI of Niccoló Machiavelli,The Prince. Peter Bondanella and Mark Musa,translators. Oxford University Press revised edition, 1984, p. 21.)

1 0

Bitange for President -- Back to the Business of Good Governance..
by S.Murigi Muraya 16 Aug '11

16 Aug '11

Can we continue picking Dr. Ndemo's intelligence & convictions until the end of the month? How can we more promptly use the billions returning (annually) to the Treasury.. to provide social goods and services? If we have a budget of KES 1 Trillion should at least KES 15 Billion (1.5%) not be set apart for ICT? ++++++++++++++++

1 0

Article on time.com on Africas Silcon Savannah and OpenData
by Twahir Mohamed 16 Aug '11

16 Aug '11

Dear Listers , Have an Interesting read and positive ON kenyan ICT industry on the Global online media http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,2080702,00.html -- Twahir

2 1

A suspected flaw in MPesa
by robert yawe 15 Aug '11

15 Aug '11

Hi, I had an interesting experience with MPesa on Saturday when I received a payment received notification with a deadline message as would happen with an unregistered recipient yet I am a registered user. My registered account did not register the transaction at all which was interesting. Being a law abiding citizen and client I called customer service, the person I spoke to as usual went off script to ask me all kinds of irrelevant questions such as do I have a dual SIM phone, was I expecting money from the person and when was my last transaction all of which are questions that do not assist in resolving my question. I sometimes wonder why I actual take the trouble yet all I should have done was gone to an mpesa agent and withdrew the money. As in the case of funds wrongly credited to a bank account I would have paid back the amount at my own rate. The error in this case was equivalent to me picking cash from the floor of the supermarket. I noted that the transaction has been reversed this morning still and the message still assumes that I am an unregistered recipient. It is my hope that Safaricom's technical team have identified and sealed the hole as its exploitation will open them up to money laundering charges. Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

2 1

Re: [kictanet] Bitange for President? Extended due to Public Demand-internet price?
by Walubengo J 15 Aug '11

15 Aug '11

@ Dennis, good question, how low, is low prices? put differently, what is AFFORDABLE internet prices? Shouldn't selling 5MB @ 5/- per day be considered affordable? A better question might be, of what use is 5MB in day - considering that a 5-10paged research paper is typically 2-5MBs gone, a 2minutes youtube clip is probably 20MBs gone and general news reading and searching may require 15-20MB per day. My own monthly bandwidth consumption on mobile internet (tampered down due to price constraints) is about 1,000MB per month - and this is on lower side because i do get "free" internet at work. So assuming a typical mwananchi buying bandwidth daily (ka-dogo economy) @ 5/= per day per 5MB; they would end up paying 1,000Ksh per month (for some not so meaningful access - read chat, fb, but not for research, programming, and other high level tasks that require real bandwidth). So anyway is 1,000Ksh per month affordable? To Bob C, MJ, the PS and possibly everyone on this list - ofcourse it is. But to the average Kenyan (majority) whose income is around Ksh 8,000/= per month? it definitely is not affordable because it represents a huge chunk (1/8) of his salary. ITU defines Affordability as ratio of the monthly BROADBAND internet costs against average national incomes. In Kenya this ratio is prohibitive and needs to be addressed holistically rather than through one-sided marketing tactics. walu. --- On Sat, 8/13/11, Dennis Kioko <dmbuvi(a)gmail.com> wrote: From: Dennis Kioko <dmbuvi(a)gmail.com> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Bitange for President? Extended due to Public Demand-internet price? To: "Walubengo J" <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> Cc: kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke Date: Saturday, August 13, 2011, 8:47 PM Hi, From Safaricom, there are daily bundles of 5 MB , 10 MB and 25 MB from at Ksh 5, Ksh 8 and Ksh 20 in addition to the rates shown at this page, http://www.kenyandroid.com/component/k2/item/167-kenyan-data-bundle-price-c… . If this is not low from Mobile data providers, then how else can we define low. As to fixed internet prices, maybe we need to have an idea of how much costs they incur in terms of way leaves, them we can define if their charges are too high. However, the result of the govt lowering the cost of NoFBI is yet to be felt.

2 1

National ICT Innovation and Integration Centre
by robert yawe 15 Aug '11

15 Aug '11

Hi, I had the privilege of attending the official opening of the National ICT Innovation and Integration Centre by Hon. Ongeri at the Kenya Science Campus. The investment is major and they seem to be forecast on their objective of integrating ICT into the primary and secondary school curriculum and administration. During the launch the Education Secretary in his speech indicated that the ministry was to set-up computer labs in 1021 schools, 5 in each constituency an issue the Minister picked during his off the cuff speech when he requested a clarification from the the Education Secretary as to the best of his knowledge the schools to be reached were supposed to be 1050. This raised an interesting issue, the reason was that there are actually constituencies in this country that have less than 5 secondary schools which might increase after the additional constituencies recommended. It was interesting how the minister was able to give a quick resolution by directing that the allocated computers must remain in the constituency and not reallocated elsewhere, a clear sign that there are effective leaders in this country. It was interesting to realise that there is a clear distinction between the various facets of education namely learning, teaching and management. The fact that the ministry and other stake holders have this clearly defined means that we are likely to see a more holistic implementation of technology. The initiative has also rolled out a portal called www.elimuportal.net, which was down as of this writing but is fortunately hosted locally, we hope they will also see it necessary to give it a .ke domain. From the presentation this portal will become the hub for teacher and student resources so we hope that the KICTB and the e-government have allocated them space in the forthcoming national data centre. It is interesting how much information you can gather at a government function, I now know and share some of the insights. 1. There are 265,000 teachers country wide but we still have a shortfall of 70,000 teachers. With the new directive that all teachers must have degrees it means that if we force all graduates to become teachers it will take us over 3 to 5 years to meet the 70,000 shortfall. If we have a demand growth of 5% per annum, cumulative, then it will take us forever to bridge the shortfall. The minister realises this and made a request that we look for innovative ways to deal with this shortfall which is where we come into the picture. Solutions such as radio and tv lessons (digital transmission) and the paradigm shift by initiatives like khanacademy mean that we have the tools and all we need is the will. 2. There are 8.6 million students in primary schools up from 5.9 million in 2005 with a transition rate of 72.5% up from 45% in 2005. The recommended transition rate from primary to secondary proscribed under MDG goals is 70%, this is a clear indication that we are making progress. I am sure many of you have this statistics at your finger tips as a result of the Open Data initiative but I still felt obligated to share what I learnt from spending my morning at the launch. Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

2 1

Re: [kictanet] Bitange for President? Extended due to Public Demand-internet price?
by Charles Mutsi 14 Aug '11

14 Aug '11

What I find most regretable about the Somali dominance issue is that it is not their problem. It is ours. Immigration officers allow illegal migrants for a thousand bob. KRA officers fail to follow up on tax for the same businessmen, private property developers sell all their assets at inflated prices to illegal immigrants. We ourselves plant the seeds for strife for our children. They are not taking over at gun point. We hand it to them for pittance. How pathetic! Sent from Yahoo! Mail on Android

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Bitange for President? Extended due to Public Demand-internet price?
by meshack emakunat 14 Aug '11

14 Aug '11

On Sat Aug 13th, 2011 2:05 PM PDT bitange(a)jambo.co.ke wrote: >Walubengo, >Watching news this evening you begin to see that even our media has never >quite understood the role of government. > >I see Media castigating government for not having capacity to distribute >relief food. This I call preposterous because government has never been >good in distributing anything. The role of government has been and should >always be facilitating through provision of infrastructure, security, >legal and regulatory framework. The rest is the people or better the >entrepreneurs. > >These are real opportunities that we must take every advantage to educate >people how to exploit these opportunities. You recall in my earlier post >I said that we need Uchumi or Nakumatt up North. Then provide the >citizens with smart cards. The intervention of government should have >been simply to top up these smart cards. They will then walk to the >retail store and pick what they want to eat and not forcing them to eat >maize. This is more efficient and cheaper. Further, the majority in >Northern Kenya would most likely prefer milk and at the same time Uchumi >will buy their Camel milk for re-distribution to other affected areas. > >In my view we are all failures and instead of correcting our mistakes, we >load the blame on government. We must remember that communist countries >tried to control distribution of food in their respective countries and >they all failed. It is time the government let the food supply chain to >private enterprise and only manage it through fiscal policy (give tax >incentives when production is threatened as well as incentives for storage >facilities) intervention. This change will reduce the perception of >corruption in government by some 30%. > >With or without “Candidate” Ndemo. Issues such as this one that goes a >long way in managing our food supply chain must be raised with the real >candidates. I am willing to shed more light on food security so that we >are all ready for the candidates. In my view we must begin to define what >we need in our country’s chief executive. In view of the new constitution >we must start working on the job description. We need the lawyers to >interpret how Chapter 7 (Leadership and Integrity) relates to the election >of our future leaders. > >If that will be the case, we must interrogate their decisions with respect >to CDF. If someone was not able to manage a CDF kitty of Ksh. 100 >million, that person will not certainly manage trillion shilling national >budget. > >Ndemo. > > > >> Bw PS, >> >> nice insights you have below.Â Mine is simply to ask what your thoughts >> are, in terms of making consumer internet prices affordable. Yes, cost of >> bandwidth at international gateway level used to be 5,000USD per MB (over >> satellite) but now it has dropped belowÂ 500USD per MB.Â Basically it >> has dropped by 10 times - HOWEVER- in our cyber cafes, the cost of >> accessing internet is still 1/- to 2/- per minute, pretty much what it was >> during the satellite days. >> >> Mobile data internet which is the more common form of access is not any >> cheaper either.Â There's has been NOÂ drop per-se, just marketing >> gimmicks of increasing the amount of bandwidth for the same (HIGH) price. >> It is like saying lunch costs 2,500/= at some 5star hotel, but since there >> has been good rains/harvest, for the same 2,500/= you are free to eat ALL >> you want...sounds good, but ONLY for those who could afford the 2,500/= >> lunch bracket in the first place - who unfortunately are not >> many....particularly in an economy whose average monthly income is around >> 8,000sh. >> >> So how do you intend to tackle the internet price problem when you get to >> be President? >> >> walu. >> >> --- On Fri, 8/12/11, bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> wrote: >> >> From: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> >> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Bitange for President? Extended due to Public >> Demand >> To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com >> Cc: kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> Date: Friday, August 12, 2011, 9:01 PM >> >> Harry, >> Yes there is a crisis virtually in every country at the moment.Â The >> difference is how you handle the situation.Â In Britain the Prime >> Minister >> thought he can take a vacation in Italy and forget what is going on at >> home but he was forced to dash home.Â Before I respond to how we take >> care >> of our crisis, I felt there is a patriotism lesson that we need to learn >> from Britain. >> >> The first reports we got in our News papers here and even in electronic >> media, there was no cause of the crisis in Britain.Â It was simply >> reported that London is burning.Â Some of our best media houses with so >> many journalists forgot to ask questions like what, where, when, why, etc. >> This would have helped us understand.Â This is because the British Media >> (from where our Media got the story) first looks at their countryâ€™s >> interests first and everything else is secondary.Â Does our Media have >> what they call Kenyan or African interests?Â If they did, they would have >> raised issues relating to racism and African Diaspora.Â We shall be more >> respected if we had the interest of those in the Diaspora at heart be they >> from Bahamas or Nigeria. >> >> How do we respond to our crisis?Â This should not be a government >> project. >> The entire society needs a lesson on respecting other human beings >> because this where our problems start and will open up greater opportunity >> and sustained harmony for all humanity.Â In other countries they make an >> effort to socially integrate all citizens of different economic classes. >> Let me elaborate.Â In Kenya a good mechanic will never be found drinking >> with a corporate CEO but in other countries it happens and sometimes you >> find they are neighbours.Â It is not common you find a woman with an >> undergraduate degree married to a plumber for example.Â We have defined >> classes that we try everything to belong to.Â We do not have good >> plumbers, mechanics, carpenters etc in this country yet we have thousand s >> looking for white collar jobs. >> >> I am sure most of you have watched Cheers.Â The artists in the bar are a >> postman, a doctor, other professional, bar maids and men having a common >> goal.Â Where no one thinks or feels they know more than the other.Â This >> is the begging of building a harmonious society that no one feels left >> out.Â The rift we have created just needs a small thing like shooting a >> drug dealer (as in the UK) then hell will break loose.Â We must not >> forget >> that this happened in China in 1949 when the Maoists took over.Â They >> literary killed anybody who seemed to be from upper class.Â Land reform >> was the major focus of policy as a result of China's vast rural >> population, around 90% of the population were farmers. Lands of former >> landlords were confiscated by the government and subsequently >> redistributed to the lower-class peasants.Â Do not forget the French >> revolution. >> >> Discrimination in any form should be shunned.Â This is because it is the >> basis of all problems be it class or tribalism.Â Â Three of my close >> friends have experience that summarizes what I have tried to explain.Â >> Mr. >> X got six and eighteen points at O and A levels respectively.Â At >> university he came out with 1st class in Electrical Engineering and joined >> the then EAPL and later obtained an MBA.Â Mr. Y had division II and could >> not afford high school but went to Kenya Science Teachers to become a >> teacher.Â Mr. Z also passed his O levels with Division III and joined >> Barclays Bank as a Clerical officer.Â They have struggled in their own >> ways and of the four of us Z is the wealthiest.Â Any time I am with X, he >> complains why I should even have time for Y and Z.Â Y by the way has >> struggled for many years and he will soon get his PhD.Â According to X >> these are not our class of people.Â He loathes Z as one who failed and >> now >> possibly has earned his wealth through corrupt means.Â In spite of the >> fact that I have tried to ask X to forget the past, he feels he belongs to >> a different class and hangs around some of the â€œsuccessfulâ€� people. >> Although I have never disclosed this to Y and Z their sixth sense leads >> them to discriminate X from some events.Â At some point we were four >> young >> lads who enjoyed life together but now pulling a part because of >> differences in the way we led our lives after high school.Â I hear and >> see >> this kind of stories often and make me feel bad about class division in >> our country. >> >> I have had the privilege of deciding who my assistants should be but not >> once have I ever picked someone because we spoke the same vernacular >> language.Â My current office is a living example and after leading by >> example, all of my senior officers followed suit.Â This is how we should >> begin to tackle the problem of tribalism.Â We also must ensure equitable >> distribution of resources and start connecting all the counties with >> roads, energy, water, schools and hospitals.Â We have already connected >> fibre optics to all the counties and are in the process of covering the >> pockets that exist.Â Even with difficult times we have managed to balance >> infrastructure development to all parts of the country.Â We shall >> continue >> with similar strategies. >> >> To achieve my objectives, I take you back to building sustained regional >> influence and develop the HUB concept in everything here in Kenya. >> Transportation, ICT, Industrialization, and practically everything Hub. >> Of course some of our neighbours will feel jealous.Â Â Â This is what we >> need >> in a sustained way because it will help galvanize Kenyans against some >> external â€œaggressorâ€�.Â President Museveni used this effectively to >> get >> Ugandans behind him when he claimed Migingo as a strategy to get >> re-elected.Â Let us do good to the entire East Africa by building the >> rail >> up to Goma, Adis, Juba, Dar and Arusha all terminating in Nairobi.Â We >> must build major transit and logistics airport and make it cheap to access >> it to all rail destinations.Â Develop capacity to serve the entire world >> back offices.Â Â Â >From this we shall create a pull effect on our >> agriculture.Â Let me not disclose the entire strategy. >> >> Regards >> >> >> Ndemo. >> >> >> >> >> >>> >>> Bw Ps, >>> >>> Thanks for your articulative responses... Indeed looking at events >>> cutting >>> across the globe >>> now, one wakes up to a realization that we face similar socio-economic >>> challenges. Bottom >>> line, is how do we respond. And respond we must. But consequently this >>> is >>> what makes the >>> huge difference between moving forward purposefully to achieve progress >>> and >>> backpeddling on >>> the other hand. >>> >>> We'd also wish to understand what strategies would be put in place to >>> ensure >>> a balanced >>> infrastractural development across the regions. I suppose much of the >>> concentration right >>> now is around the Capital and it's environs at the expense of the rest >>> of >>> the country. >>> How about dealing with the great tribalism "monster". >>> >>> 3rdly, what strategies/plans do you have in place to achieve this dream >>> you >>> have. >>> >>> Harry >>> >>> >>> -----Original Message----- >>> From: kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>> [mailto:kictanet-bounces+harry=comtelsys.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On >>> Behalf Of bitange(a)jambo.co.ke >>> Sent: Thursday, August 11, 2011 3:32 PM >>> To: harry(a)comtelsys.co.ke >>> Cc: kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Bitange for President? Extended due to Public >>> Demand >>> >>> Grace, >>> Thank you for extending the debate to Monday.Â I hope I get time to >>> articulate some of the issues that will impact our lives in the next few >>> years.Â Earlier I said that we are not alone in how we are dealing with >>> our >>> social development.Â I went ahead and gave examples from the US and UK. >>> Although it is an unfortunate for the British people, it has come to >>> pass. >>> Even the Central Bank we got some good debate out of my post. >>> >>> Leadership requires selfless commitment to the people they lead.Â It is >>> a >>> sacrifice one makes.Â In this respect, I will seek for advisors who >>> have >>> demonstrated ability to serve their country with dedication.Â We have >>> these >>> people but they have never been given a chance to lead. The constitution >>> has >>> accorded us the opportunity to search for such people. >>> If you read today's front page Standard, it has the requirement for >>> those >>> who want to join the electoral commission.Â If we follow the >>> requirement >>> to >>> the letter, we shall get credible people.Â It is this process that >>> lacked >>> before and political operatives took charge in many posts within >>> government. >>> >>> Indeed there will be a policy guideline on all organizations registered >>> under Societies Act.Â It is in the interest of the public that these >>> organizations file annual returns to the registrar because they are tax >>> exempt.Â Tax exemption means that we the public partly fund their >>> activities.Â Further the state has a responsibility to protect its >>> citizens >>> from being taken advantage of.Â We cannot burry our heads in the sand >>> on >>> this issue no matter how sensitive it is.Â We shall also be >>> implementing >>> our >>> constitution with respect to Bill of Rights. >>> >>> >>> Regards >>> >>> >>> Ndemo. >>> >>> >>>> >>>> Listers >>>> >>>> We have received requestsÂ (offline) that we allow "Candidate" Ndemo >>>> more time for him to respond to more concerns being raised. >>>> >>>> This is to let you know that the 'official campaign period" has been >>>> extended up to Monday August 15, 2011. >>>> >>>> And now Dr. Ndemo, Harry Delano did ask you to say what kind of >>>> advisors you would be looking for to help shape policy. Can we hear >>>> you on this one too? You also make a valid point about churches and >>>> the fact that they are not audited. I know for example in Washington >>>> DC, Parish priests have to present audited accounts to Parishoners >>>> once a year, while the Bishop fundraises through a system that is open >>>> to public scrutiny. Would you then make a policy decision on this? On >>>> a light note, may I remind you that your responses will go into the >>>> 'manifesto' and translate into more or less "votes" :) >>>> >>>> Listers, let the debate continue. >>>> >>>> Rgds >>>> GG >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> >>>> ---------------------------------------------------------------------- >>>> ------------- If you have the strength to survive, you have the power >>>> to succeed. Life is all about choices we make depending upon the >>>> situation we are in. Go forth and rule the World! >>>> >>>> >>>> ---------------------------------------------- >>>> This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by >>>> Jambo MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. >>>> --------------------------------------------- >>>> "easy access to the world" >>>> >>>> >>> >>> >>> >>> ---------------------------------------------- >>> This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by Jambo >>> MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. >>> --------------------------------------------- >>> "easy access to the world" >>> >>> >>> _______________________________________________ >>> kictanet mailing list >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >>> >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/harry%40comtelsys.co.ke >>> >>> The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform >>> for >>> people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and >>> regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT >>> sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and >>> development. >>> >>> KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors >>> online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and >>> bandwidth, >>> share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, >>> do >>> not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >>> >>> >>> ---------------------------------------------- >>> This message has been scanned for viruses and >>> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >>> believed to be clean. >>> --------------------------------------------- >>> "easy access to the world" >>> >>> >> >> >> >> ---------------------------------------------- >> This message has been scanned for viruses and >> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >> believed to be clean. >> --------------------------------------------- >> "easy access to the world" >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> kictanet mailing list >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com >> >> The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform >> for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and >> regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT >> sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and >> development. >> >> KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors >> online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, >> share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do >> not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. >> >> ---------------------------------------------- >> This message has been scanned for viruses and >> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >> believed to be clean. >> --------------------------------------------- >> "easy access to the world" >> >> > > > >---------------------------------------------- >This message has been scanned for viruses and >dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >believed to be clean. >--------------------------------------------- >"easy access to the world" > > >_______________________________________________ >kictanet mailing list >kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/memakunat%40yahoo.com > >The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. > >KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.

1 0

Is your ISP cheating you out of bandwidth? New gov't test offers a hint
by S.Murigi Muraya 13 Aug '11

13 Aug '11

CCK could and should carry out similar studies like the FCC one below. If already done, please publicize the findings in Kenya. http://redtape.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2011/08/11/7348557-is-your-isp-cheating-… Is your ISP cheating you out of bandwidth? New gov't test offers a hint When you hear a politician, a lobbying group, or a corporate executive yammering on about leaving the free market alone, don’t fall for it. Many businesses today are built around finding that industry -- or that particular anomaly within an industry -- where market forces simply don't apply. Then, they exploit the heck out of it for big profits. Late fees on credit cards, for example -- who shops around for those? Or hotel safe fees that get automatically tacked onto your bill. Call this the "un-free market" at work. Broadband Internet access has long existed in this un-free market. For a long time, many U.S. consumers had only one Internet access provider, the very definition of an un-free market. Now, most people have two options -- an improvement, but duopolies rarely behave like free markets. More important, when people shop for broadband, they usually don't know what they are getting. What does 10 Mbps speed really get you anyway? Is it five times better than 2 Mbps? Should you pay five times more for it? And most important, since the ISPs guarantee none of this, what do consumers really get for their $59.99 per month? Imagine pulling up to a gas station and paying by time rather than volume. A 60-second shot of gas costs $20 -- sometime you get 5 gallons, and sometimes you get 3 gallons, but there no scale telling you how much you get. That's pretty much how things work in the Internet access world right now. Finally, government regulators have stepped in and begun making the purchase of Internet access fairer. The Federal Communications Commission released the results of a year-long, scientific study of 13 U.S. broadband providers<http://transition.fcc.gov/cgb/measuringbroadbandreport/Measuring_U.S._-_Mai…>, focused on whether firms like AT&T, Verizon, Qwest, Frontier, and others live up to their marketing materials when delivering high-speed Internet service. For the first time, the firms are being held to their promises, and consumers can find out if they are getting what they are paying for. The results weren't bad. Most firms hit 90 percent of their advertised upload speeds. Download speeds were another story, however. Only four of the 13 reached their promised download speed (Charter, Comcast, Cox, and Verizon), while most of the other firms hovered around 80 percent. Cablevision fared worst, with download speeds that fell to 50 percent of advertised rates at peak periods*. (*Msnbc.com is a joint venture with Microsoft and NBC Universal, the latter of which is a division of Comcast.*) * Overall, the tests also showed that consumers aren't getting dramatically cheated by their ISPs, and time-of-day tests showed there is no longer a massive web traffic jam every evening when consumers get home and log in. The tests showed that once-dreaded peak period slowdowns are now uncommon. advertisement Still, Free Press research director S. Derek Turner, who had long called for such government tests, was critical of the findings. Free Press is a nonprofit group that advocates for consumers on a number of media and telecommunications issues. "The way we look at the results, most of the ISPs -- nine of the 13 -- are failing to deliver their promised speeds at all times of the day. The fact that four of the 13 can deliver means the others could be," he said. "If they are unable deliver on their promises, than their advertising is highly misleading. ... If you got 80 percent of your pay for work you did, you wouldn't be happy about it." The tests, which were performed by a private firm that has run similar tests in the U.K., measured performance at 6,800 representative homes around the country in March. The tests revealed a clear trend: DSL services were least likely to live up to advertised rates. Fiber-optic services, like Verizon's FiOS, fared best, followed by cable-based systems. Wireless broadband services, like Verizon's Mobile Broadband, were not tested. Outside observers said the test results seemed consistent with real-world experience. Damon Mueller, who operates TestMy.Net service, says he thought the FCC used sound methodologies. TestMy.Net gives users free, instant feedback on their Internet connection speed, and lets consumers compare results with others. "The FCC's test is accurate and their results mirror my own. They even mention the ISPs that top TestMy's list," he said. There are severe limitations to the FCC's results however. To borrow a phrase from politics, all ISP issues are local. An ISP might offer great service in New York City, but lousy service on your block in Queens because of dated wires on the telephone pole. In other words, it's quite possible that DSL, while performing worst in this test, could be the best option at your house. Consumers, as always, bear some responsibility, and the FCC's research shows they are dangerously detached from their broadband purchasing decision. Fully 80 percent said they did not know what speed they purchased from their ISP; another 49 percent, when asked to identify their level of service, got it wrong. This ignorance can be overlooked, however, given that the speed numbers have proven to be rough approximations of the service provided. And besides, only geeks really care about the speed of Web traffic flowing in and out of their homes. Most consumers simply want to know that they have enough reliable bandwidth to do what they need to do. "To most consumers, megabits are a very abstract concept. They just want to know, 'Does it work?' Can I use Netflix?' " Turner said. To that end, Mueller is worried that the FCC results -- while a good test to make sure the ISPs aren't committing fraud -- aren't really that helpful to consumers. advertisement "The data still isn't being presented in a way that helps people make the best choice in service provider," he said. Here's the kind of bizarre calculus consumers are still forced to perform: Paying $60 for a service that only achieves 50 percent of advertised rates -- say, a 10 Mbps fiber optic connection -- could still be a better deal than paying $50 for a 2 Mbps service that hits 100 percent. <http://www.fcc.gov/measuring-broadband-america> FCC.gov The FCC's download test results. And again, none of that information actually promises an uninterrupted Netflix movie. To really create a free market where consumers could intelligently shop for services in their local areas, free trial periods that allow side-by-side, real-world comparisons would be necessary. It should be clear that long-term commitments, like two-year contracts required by some Internet providers, are the death of such a free market. That's why, to Turner, the FCC tests are only the beginning. "We would like the FCC to pressure underperforming companies to explain why they didn't do well, and to disclose that the upper limits they advertise are never attainable," he said. One hopeful sign that the test is already setting free market forces free -- two days after the results were published, Verizon sent e-mails to some customers bragging about the results, Turner said. "And, hopefully this will embarrass (other ISPs) into performing better next time," he said. RED TAPE WRESTLING TIPS It's a good idea -- not to mention fun -- to test your broadband connection every month or so, to make sure you are getting what you pay for. There are several services available, like Mueller's TestMy.Net <http://testmy.net/>. Along with offering useful points of comparison, the site can also store results for comparison later. The Speakeasy.net <http://speakeasy.net/>test, now operated by ISP MegaPath, is among the most popular and easy to use. And the FCC now offers its own broadband test<http://www.broadband.gov/qualitytest/about/> . Even if you happy with your current service, you should still perform the test. Who knows what great, bandwidth-hogging service might catch your fancy next month? What should you do if find your ISP is underperforming? Ideally, you would switch to a better service, but there's no guarantee that will improve your situation. A competitor could be exaggerating speeds, too You can always complain that your service is too slow, but know that it's standard industry practice for ISPs to use such calls to “upsell” customers on more-expensive plans. "Those types of stories are pervasive," Turner said. "Customers call to complain that something they are trying to run isn't working, and customer service agents are trained to upsell them." Be ready for the sales pitch. First insist that the company live up to its promises. Make it test your service, and compare the tests with your own results. In the end, an upsell deal might be worth taking, but be a good “free marketeer” and avoid the long-term contract. * * *Follow Bob Sullivan on Facebook <http://facebook.com/BobSullivanFans>or Twitter <http://twitter.com/RedTapeChron>.*

1 0