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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

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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 >> >> >> >> >> > >

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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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. >>> >>

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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/ +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

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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.

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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

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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

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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.

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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. >

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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…

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