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Fw: Kibaki signs Bill into law
by dmakali＠yahoo.com 14 Jan '09

14 Jan '09

Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device -----Original Message----- From: dmakali(a)yahoo.com Date: Sat, 10 Jan 2009 06:04:41 To: Barrack Otieno<otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law Ndudu Barrack, The media is a basket of diverse characters and multiple interests trying to serve various demands placed on it by many publics. The situation is not helped by the fact that every1 assumes that the media should serve his or her interests however provincial. Or the assumption that there is one homogenous institution called media. To be candid, there are massive problems in the industry. But the proposed legislation is designed or will have the effect of strangling it rather than helping. To start with, I don't see the pt of applauding the things which are good in that law if that implies accepting or lessening on the gravity of the bad ones. Yet what I see on this ict list is just that -cheer readers excited by the ict provisions we have all been waiting for and a determination to gloss over or sweep aside the glaring omissions or shortcomings of the law. I find that myopic and selfish, vis-a-vis the greater public interest. The media must be understood too. Accusations of sensationalism may be valid but what else did the media have in its quest to be heard? Why were its proposals ignored? The last resort was to fight back against an unjust law using any and all means. And it was going to get worse had sense not prevailed. Now again you blame the victim and not the aggressor politician for attempting to polarise the nation. For me, this debate is polemical if you can't address objections we have raised with specific clauses. Dwelling on the good and uncontestable aspects of the bill is waste of ink. We don't have to educate the public about how the bill is good because, well, that is what it should be. But we have a duty to warn the public of an impending disaster. And why are some of you on this forum quick to lynch the media but molly coddling politicians who pay lip service to media freedom and yet go ahead to stab it? Who brought us to this pass? The same proposals they rejected with hubris before the passage of that bill are going to be taken in this time round. Why? That's something to ponder. It only takes silence or collusion such as ICT folks are engaged in to end up with tyranny. Let me conclude that its not true that the media did not make submissions to that bill. It did. And a committee was even set up to do so comprised of min officials. What became of their proposals? Let ndemo tell us. The truth is we would make proposals but the ministry was hell bent on driving thro its agenda so none of our views would be taken on board until the law was passed. Then we decided we were not going to take it. The moral is that no law should be shoved down anybody just because its govt. That era of govt fiat is gone. I admit we have quite a big house cleaning job as industry to do. But frankly, some of the claims being pinned on the media are baseless. The media can't be responsible for the failure of political leadership! Barrack, you ICT people will only begin to appeal to us on this side if you at least acknowledge the law is flawed in key ways, eg- sections 5, 46, and so on. I advice this forum to wait for our detailed amendment proposals on tuesday, and desist from vacuous charges of sensationalism against the media. What is at stake here is fundamental to our democracy and freedoms. David Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device -----Original Message----- From: "Barrack Otieno" <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com> Date: Sat, 10 Jan 2009 08:18:09 To: <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions<kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law Well Bwana Makali, As you may have realised media and ICT seem to be strange bedfellows even though we are together in the name of convergence the more reason this debate has taken this angle. Nonetheless i guess Bill has just laid on the table facts that might need to be considered by the media fraternity and i am happy you have read through his write up. We all know where this country has come from and we shouldnt continue talking about politicians nor comparing ourselves to them because we know what they are made of. As one of the leaders of the media fratenity it is important that you highlight the above mentioned issues to members of the fraternity because your house is not in order, it is unprofessional or shall we say unethical to attack personalities and institutions the way the media did in the past few days because of their opinions however much you would like to justify what you did, your acts only served to prove how media can polarise the Nation. Nonetheless the new act brings good tidings to the ICT sector despite the scare tactics being deployed i am yet to come across a balanced view of the act devoid of sensationalism from a member of the fourth estate other than the attacks being meted on personalities can we start with you Bwana Makali, where were you guys at the stakeholders negotiations to raise this issues as the PS asked? i bet this issues were there even then....What i am saying David is that the media needs to get its act together your house is not in order On Sat, Jan 10, 2009 at 1:12 AM, <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > What disadvantage to ICT, Gilda, is caused by lumping so called ICT with > broadcasting issues? That's hilarious. > As for Bill's pontification below, my verdict is that he should seek to > inform himself about media operations in kenya and elsewhere first before he > purports to educate others. Some of the views he espouses are extremely > pedestrian altho he wants to pass them off as truth. While I agree with the > need to curb media conentration and monopolies, his suggestions about daily > press being owned by the public or the masses are a bit misplaced. And the > points being raised by the media are not necessarily those of media owners. > Hello! Remove your blinkers and see facts for what they are. Your defence of > the president and minister reeks of the sycophancy of yore. Presidents and > ministers have to take responsibility for their actions or inaction, they > are not rubber stamps! > Ask yourself why we have media concentration now, and how come most > frequencies are held by politicians and or their cronies or allies. How did > michuki, midiwo, koigi, etc come to own frequencies? Isn't there a cck? > Don't you think it should be independent to avoid being bullied or be > shielded from political directives? > And to say the Act should be renamed ICT and not media doesn't amount to > much change. Moreover, let the law speak for itself, we don't need anyone to > explain its intentions or the meaning - least of all you! You are neither > its author or implementer. A good law should be explicit and unambiguous in > its meaning, not open to diff interpretation. Which is part of the problem > with the new Act. Be honest at least. Skewed logic and such other partisan > and ignorant views about the media and how it should investigate stories are > clearly outside this law. Don't give it imaginary power. True, training and > capacity of the media are issues worth discussing but not in this context. > That's dabbling in territory about which you can only speculate. Before you > lament, have you ever investigated a story or given a newspaper an > investigative lead? And to claim that the duty of a journalist is to report > the truth and publish regardless of the consequence is plainly naïve and > insensitive. > Before you go far, read sect 5 of the Bill. One would expect that since you > are reading the bill uncritically when the weaknesses of the bill are > pointed out you begin to appreciate the concerns raised and not remain > dogmatic in your belief that every criticism in malicious and govt is > infallible. No? > Let's engage in constructive arguments and not spread hate. You have much > to thank the media for than you know or can admit. > David > > > Sent from my BlackBerry(R) wireless device > > -----Original Message----- > From: "Gilda Odera" <godera(a)skyweb.co.ke> > > Date: Fri, 9 Jan 2009 15:06:54 > To: <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions<kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > > >_______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: dmakali(a)yahoo.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/dmakali%40yahoo.com > >_______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… > -- Barrack O. Otieno ISSEN CONSULTING Tel: +254721325277 +254726544442 +254733206359 www.issenconsult.com http://projectdiscovery.or.ke To give up the task of reforming society is to give up ones responsibility as a free man. Alan Paton, South Africa

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Obama team seeks delay in US digital TV switch
by alice 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

http://www.blnz.com/news/2009/01/08/Obama_team_seeks_delay_digital_1582.html Obama team seeks delay in US digital TV switch AFP AFP American Edition Jan 07, 2009 19:00 EST US president-elect Barack Obama's transition team has asked for a delay in the nation's scheduled switch to digital television next month, citing funding difficulties. The Obama transition team co-chair John Podesta has written to key US lawmakers asking for an extension to the February 17 legislatively-mandated analog cutoff date, according to copy of the letter made available to AFP. Obama will take over from President George Bush on January 20. Based on plans by the Bush administration, stations will cease their analog transmissions and broadcast only in digital form from February 17, requiring consumers who rely on over-the-air signals to install converter boxes. Consumers are to be provided with a 40-dollar coupon to defray the cost of the converter but Podesta said the program to distribute the coupons "has run out of funds." "During the transition, we have discovered major difficulties in the preparation for the February 17 conversion from analog to digital broadcasting," he said. "These weaknesses mean major problems for consumers." By early February projections suggested more than five million coupon requests would not be met, with the figure "increasing by hundreds of thousands every day," he said. In addition, the funds provided to support the conversion are "woefully inadequate," he said, pointing out that particularly low income, rural and elderly Americans would be hit. "With coupons unavailable, support and education insufficient, and the most vulnerable Americans exposed, I urge you to consider a change to the legislatively-mandated analog cutoff date," Podesta said in the letter to key legislators in the Senate and House of Representatives. The US Congress reportedly allocated 1.34 billion dollars to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to distribute converter box coupons. The switch to digital television will free up wireless airwaves for public safety agencies and other advanced mobile services. An auction of those analog airwaves raised 19 billion dollars for the government last year, according to the the Washington Post. Major American broadcasters have signaled that they support a delay. "Our first concern is what's best for our viewers, and we believe that the Obama-Biden Transition Team shares our concern," media giant News Corporation said in a statement Thursday. But the Consumer Electronics Association, an industry group, suggested keeping the February 17 transition date. It said converter boxes were available in sufficient supply and consumers were aware of and prepared for the transition, but added legitimate concerns about the coupon program should be addressed immediately. "If the goal is to avoid consumer confusion, keeping the February 17 transition date that is engrained in consumer minds is the best solution," said association president Gary Shapiro Source: http://www.blnz.com/news/2009/01/08/Obama_team_seeks_delay_digital_1582.html

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Media To Snub Civil Society Congress Forum
by Bill Kagai 13 Jan '09

13 Jan '09

Makali, Do you speak for the entire Media fraternity when you say media stakeholders have decided not to participate in these public discussions which have no specific bearing?? I really do not see why Media should snub a civil society forum aimed at making Mwananchi understand experiences from the two sides of the divide. On Tue, Jan 13, 2009 at 7:37 AM, Gakuru Alex <alexgakuru.lists(a)gmail.com>wrote: > Makali: > > Thanks for the info. > > All: > > Kindly confirm the status of this event. I had extended invitations to > ke-users (consumers) and skunkworks (techie) lists and I would like to > update them, ASAP. > > Regards, > > Alex > > On Tue, Jan 13, 2009 at 7:01 AM, <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > > Alex, thank you. > > No, I and as far as I can tell the other media stakeholders, decided not > to engage in these public discussions which have no specific bearing on the > objective of attaining a balanced law. As we confirmed at the kicc and > yestday's serena so called stakeholder meetings, they are choreographed to > bash the media and portray them as opposed to regulation, which is a grand > lie. > > We raised very specific objections about particular clauses we need > addressed but all the choruses going on are about the gud things in the law > that won't cure the identified defects. > > Our efforts are directed towards crafting the amendments, as directed, > which we will finish and hand over to wako today for onward processing and > transmission. Anything else is a distraction or futile academic posturing > because I doubt anybody is listening, least of all the media. > > Honestly. > > > > Sent from my BlackBerry(R) wireless device > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: Gakuru Alex <alexgakuru.lists(a)gmail.com> > > > > Date: Tue, 13 Jan 2009 06:02:56 > > To: <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> > > Cc: kictanet<kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > Subject: Re: [kictanet] [Fwd: [DigAfrica] Uganda consumers get ICT lobby] > > > > > > Hello Makali, > > > > On Mon, Jan 12, 2009 at 11:44 PM, <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > >> Hi Waudo > >> Would you rather belong to the ministry of science and technology? > >> > >> I don't quite buy the idea that having a ministry is a panacea for > anything. I also don't quite get the rationale for this clamour for 'our' > ministry! Not with the many ict institutions, including ict board, already > in place. Actually, you guys can have the information and comm ministry. We > wud actually be happy to separate the laws. We in the media don't crave for > much govt. For us the lesser govt the better bkos it doesn't add any value > to our work nor do we depend on it. The framework for freedom of expression, > the FOl, is all we need. And that isn't forthcoming soon despite dr ndemo's > promises. > >> Give us that and kenya will be a beautifu and prosperous place witht > good govt. > >> My thoughts. > > > > Three reactions: > > > > 1. We are in agreement in regard to saving public taxes by avoiding > > creation of yet another ministry when 'convergence' has led into a > > networked communications environment. Fortunately, some of the media > > houses, for example NMG, would appear to have taken cognizance and > > taken steps toward it <http://www.nation.co.ke/editorialteam> > > > > 2. Whether broadcasters desire their "own" law, ministry, or > > grievances framework, we must 'converge' at some point because you > > deal with information and communicating it which needs regulation. An > > example is UK's ('CCK') on broadcasting content regulation > > <http://www.ofcom.org.uk/media/features/broadtin> and BBC complaints > > handling <http://www.bbc.co.uk/complaints/handle.shtml> > > > > 3. Yesterday the Minister for Information and Communications repeated > > government's commitment to fast enact FOI. It was good to note the > > priority given given to this very important law that we do not have. > > Fundamentally, FOI law is for all people (not just the media) have > > access to information along the Universal Declaration of Human Rights > > <http://www.un.org/Overview/rights.html> thus everyone enjoys their > > basic freedoms 'regardless of all frontiers.' Everyone is obligated to > > uphold UDHR ....We agree here! > > > > You will be at today's Civil Society Public Forum, won't you? > > > > regards, > > > > Alex > > > > (Sent from my wireless device;) > > > >> Sent from my BlackBerry(R) wireless device > >> > >> -----Original Message----- > >> From: "waudo siganga" <emailsignet(a)mailcan.com> > >> > >> Date: Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:38:46 > >> To: <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> > >> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions<kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > >> Subject: Re: [kictanet] [Fwd: [DigAfrica] Uganda consumers get ICT > lobby] > >> > >> > >> Talking of Uganda I have just learnt that they have a separate ICT > >> Ministry (headed by our good friend Mulira) and a completely separate > >> Ministry of Information and NATIONAL GUIDANCE to regulate > >> media/broadcast content etc. I still believe in the superiority of a > >> distinct ICT Ministry model . > >> Waudo > >> > >> On Mon, 12 Jan 2009 07:01:09 +0300, "alice" <alice(a)apc.org> said: > >>> > >>> http://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/business/-/2560/512428/-/6437suz/- > >>> <http://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/business/-/2560/512428/-/6437suz/-> > >>> /index.html > >>> > >>> ---------------------- > >>> > >>> Uganda consumers get ICT lobby > >>> By ESTHER NAKKAZI > >>> > >>> Posted Friday, January 9 2009 at 14:26 > >>> > >>> Dissatisfied ICT consumers in Uganda can now seek redress from the > >>> Uganda ICT Consumer Protection Association, in case of bad service, > >>> substandard products and general unscrupulous practices by data and > >>> voice service providers. > >>> > >>> The new lobby, which starts work later this month, will particularly > >>> address the issue of slow data speeds delivered by Internet service > >>> providers that do not correspond with the bandwidth paid for; > >>> overpricing of services and substandard mobile handsets sold at rock > >>> bottom prices through product promotions. > >>> > >>> The lobby's agenda is to ensure that consumers get value for money; > >>> act as an arbiter between consumers and service providers; be a > >>> platform for redress; be a proactive independent body that will set > >>> standards for service providers and also create an avenue for > >>> educating the public on consumer rights. > >>> > >>> "We want to bring the different players together for the good of the > >>> industry. Consumers will get to understand what the suppliers are > >>> giving them and the service providers will in turn realise that they > >>> cannot get away with poor service," said James Wire Lunghabo, > >>> chairman of the lobby and an IT expert at Linux Solutions. > >>> > >>> Mr Lunghabo said the lobby is not out to antagonise service providers > >>> but to hold them accountable and make them understand that "quality > >>> of service in the ICT sector is a right, not a favour." > >>> > >>> The chairman of the Parliamentary ICT Committee Edward Baliddawa, > >>> said, "The lobby is a good initiative that will create checks and > >>> balances within the industry. It will go a long way in helping to > >>> educate consumers, most of whom do not have the capacity to verify > >>> quality of services offered." > >>> > >>> The lobby group will complement the regulator Uganda Communications > >>> Commission, which is mandated by the government to do this work. > >>> > >>> But critics say that though the Commission is mandated to handle > >>> consumer complaints, the fact that it is funded by the service > >>> providers, it cannot not be a fair arbiter. > >>> > >>> The Commission is funded through licence fees paid by ICT operators, > >>> the government, a 1 per cent levy from operators' revenue under the > >>> Rural Communication Development Fund and other fees, which the lobby > >>> group says should be accounted for by an independent body. The > >>> Commission runs a consumer relations desk that has been accused of > >>> being docile. > >>> > >>> Commission officials said the new lobby is free to ask it for funding > >>> as funds for such activities are available, given that the issue of > >>> consumer protection is too big to be handled by a single entity. > >>> > >>> "We welcome every initiative and will be glad to have civil society > >>> and public collaboration. The issue of consumer protection calls for > >>> concerted efforts by all stakeholders in the sector," said Fred > >>> Otunnu, the Director of Communications and Consumer Affairs at the > >>> UCC. > >>> > >>> However, some industry players have already expressed reservations, > >>> saying that if the lobby is to be funded by the Commission, it will > >>> be controlled by the government and so lose its independence. > >>> > >>> http://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/business/-/2560/512428/-/6437suz/- > >>> <http://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/business/-/2560/512428/-/6437suz/-> > >>> /index.html > >

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Comms ACT - What happens to KENIC?
by Michuki Mwangi 12 Jan '09

12 Jan '09

Hi all, According to the new communications ACT, it appears that going forward KENIC will have to acquire a license (from CCK) to continue managing the ccTLD. KENIC is established as a PPP of which CCK is a party to. 1) Is there any precedence where the regulator (CCK) is party to or legally seats on the board of licensee ?. Wouldnt this constitute to a conflict of interest on its end? if not then all is well. a) If this is the case, what impact would this have on the organizations governance structure, the ppp model and where KENIC is hosted. b) Worth taking note, with the model being recognized as a global best practice for ccTLDs, what message are we sending out to the rest of the world?. 2) With the introductions of Internationalized Domain Names (IDNs) and IDN ccTLDs by ICANN, does that mean i now have an opportunity to apply for a license to run the .ke equivalent in arabic script? and use the same license to acquire the mandate from ICANN. 3) Section 88 - does it mean that anyone can also now go and apply for a license to operate second levels under ccTLDs. For instance are we ready to run a split registry where .go.ke is run by e-gov and .ac.ke is run by KENET etc; and others that maybe proposed (since its subject to license issuance) in the future. For argument sake 'i have an application for .bank.ke for the financial sector and the catch would be that i would provide DNNSEC which KENIC doesnt offer at the moment.' Do i qualify for a sub-registry license? IMHO, i hope such and issues that i have noted on the Certificate Authority sections are equally reviewed for the greater good. Best regards, Michuki.

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(no subject)
by Margaret Gichuki 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

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Mobinfo - Mobile Information
by Michael Wakahe 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

Check out the web and mobile directory service at this website: http://www.mobinfo.co.ke. Regards, Michael

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Civil Society Congress Forum on Kenya ICT Act
by Bill Kagai 11 Jan '09

11 Jan '09

Friends, You may wish to pen in to your diaries this interesting public forum that will be held at the Hilton on Tuesday, 13th January 2009. -Hilton Hotel, Tuesday, 13th January 2009, 2.00 - 5.00pm. -Keynote - Hon. Farah Maalim - Deputy Speaker. -Presentations - Mbugua Mureithi and Mildred Ngesa. -Discussants - Paul Muite, Ezekiel Mutua, Wahu Kaara, Linus Gitahi and our very own, Alex Gakuru. -Moderator - Haron Ndubi. -Convenor - National Civil Society Congress. Full details on today's, Sunday Standard, Pg.7. -- Bildad Kagai MD - MediaCorp Limited Nairobi Stock Exchange Authorised Information Vendor Suite B2, Tetu Court, State House Avenue P. O. Box 20311 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya Tel. 254 20 272 8332 Fax. Rendered Obsolete S - 1°17'13.8" E - 36°48'22.7" www.mediacorp.co.ke ---

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Deadline January 18th for Citizen Media Outreach Projects
by Janet Feldman 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

http://rising.globalvoicesonline.org/blog/2008/12/23/rising-voices-seeks-mi… Application Deadline: January 18, 2009 Rising Voices (http://rising.globalvoicesonline.org) the outreach arm of Global Voices (http://globalvoicesonline.org) is now accepting project proposals for microgrant funding of up to $5,000 for new media outreach projects. Ideal applicants will present innovative and detailed proposals to teach citizen media techniques to communities that are poorly positioned to discover and take advantage of tools like blogging, video-blogging, and podcasting on their own. As the internet becomes more accessible to more people, including mobile phone users, the so-called digital divide seems to be narrowing. In its place, however, we see a participation gap in which the vast majority of blogs, podcasts, and online video are being produced in middle-class neighborhoods in major cities around the world. Rising Voices aims to help bring new voices from new communities and speaking new languages to the conversational web, by providing resources and funding to local groups reaching out to underrepresented communities in the developing world. Please visit our current list of grantees for project examples: http://rising.globalvoicesonline.org/projects. The sky is the limit, but unfortunately funding is not. Rising Voices outreach grants will range from $2,000 to $5,000. Please be as thoughtful, specific, and realistic as possible when drafting your budgets. Successful projects will be prominently featured on Global Voices. Grantees are expected to host regular workshops to train participants how to start and maintain a weblog, upload and share digital photographs, and produce basic videos. Grantees are also required to post regular project evaluations and updates to the Rising Voices website. Completed applications will be accepted no later than Sunday, January 18. Please submit your completed application on the Rising Voices apply page: http://rising.globalvoicesonline.org/apply/ Feel free to ask questions in the comments section below or by sending an email to outreach(a)globalvoicesonline.org. All the best, David Sasaki Rising Voices

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Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law
by David Aduda 10 Jan '09

10 Jan '09

Wainana, The media, and not only Media Owners Associations, but editors, journalists, TV and Radio anchors and producers, have always been ready for dialogue and honest one at that. We don't know your criteria for the so-called "well-thought out" memorandum, but we can assure that we had prepared many documents, which we presented to the minister, PS and PM. We will revisit them and prepare something and hopefully it will "well-though and devoid of propoganda". Aduda > ---------- > From: kictanet-bounces+daduda=nation.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke on behalf of Wainaina Mungai > Sent: Wednesday, January 7, 2009 10:52 PM > To: David Aduda > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > > The Presidential directive to Hon. Poghisio & Hon. Amos Wako has set > the pace for a new engagement strategy. Let's hope it brings to an end > the "drama queen" strategy used by media owners so far. > > The media owners will need to present well thought-out memoranda > devoid of propanganda. I hope they are ready to engage in the same way > as the ICT sector did. > > The proposals by media owners must be subjected to objective debate in > the longterm interests of the nation. > > Wainaina > > On 1/7/09, Wainaina Mungai <wainaina(a)madeinkenya.org> wrote: > > It sounds like Tanzania has a very objective Media Council. > > > > They recognise that the law is abit too tough but they believe the > > Kenyan media brought it upon themselves when they failed to > > self-regulate. > > > > Through the one-sided campaign, it is clear that the media has no > > intention to implement true self-regulation. Individual media houses > > are now setting standards and walking away from the biased "group > > mind" approach to issues. > > > > Let's hope that Kenya's Media Council will learn from Tanzanians. > > > > Wainaina > > > > On 1/7/09, Jotham Kilimo Mwale <jokilimo(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > >> Hi All, > >> > >> Just came across this view of our Act from Media Council of Tanzania. > >> > >> http://www.dailynews.habarileo.co.tz/magazine/index.php?id=9330 > >> > >> Interesting. > >> > >> Regards, > >> > >> Jotham K. Mwale > >> > >> > >> --- On Tue, 1/6/09, Akich Kwach <kwach(a)archway-productions.com> wrote: > >> > >> From: Akich Kwach <kwach(a)archway-productions.com> > >> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > >> To: jokilimo(a)yahoo.com > >> Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > >> Date: Tuesday, January 6, 2009, 1:14 AM > >> > >> Hi All, > >> > >> I think it is time time we stopped blaiming our brother and sisters from > >> the > >> media. It is said that if you were in their shoes, you would be shouting > >> loudest > >> like them. I believe they have a point and I do agree with Dorcas > >> Muthoni, > >> the > >> style or approach by the media team might be the problem. As they seek > >> for > >> freedom, they have to be visionery. I am reminded of the wise advice by > >> Lyndon > >> Johnson, a former US president "You do not examine legislation in the > >> light of the benefits it will convey if properly administered, but in the > >> light > >> of the wrongs it would do and the harms it would cause if improperly > >> administered." > >> > >> To set the records straight, I do support the signing of the Bill and the > >> rest > >> of the amendments can be lobbied for later. It is sad the Wanjikus, > >> Atienos > >> and > >> Moraas outside Nairobi would find it difficult to know the benefits the > >> new > >> law > >> carries because the same media that should have passed the message is > >> still > >> in a > >> "mourning period". How can we help spread the message? > >> > >> I look forward to the discussions as stated by Walu > >> > >> Akich Kwach > >> > >> ----- Original Message ----- From: "Barrack Otieno" > >> <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com> > >> To: <kwach(a)archway-productions.com> > >> Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions"> > >> <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > >> Sent: Monday, January 05, 2009 10:29 PM > >> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > >> > >> > >> You have a point David, this convergence business is a bit confusing > >> to the waheshimiwa as well as a good number of Kenyans, i bet eighty > >> percent might no understand what is going on, Alex you seem to be > >> having some answers though your answers are too complicated :) > >> Let the debate continue > >> > >> On Mon, Jan 5, 2009 at 9:14 PM, <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > >>> Barrack, I don't see our pt of diff. Media are the first users of ict > >> and thea is no doubt ict is imptant in a modern ecoomy. But that's it. > >> So > >> is freedom of speech and access to information. > >>> And we don't have to compare media and ict. What I state and repeat is > >> the tendency by ict buffs to think only ict in isolation or see nothing > >> wrong > >> else with the aw as long as their concerns are taken care of, then say > >> dismissively that there are other iinstitutions to deal with their > >> legitimate > >> concerns or reason should prevail. Which? How come ict folks are not > >> raising > >> their voices on thoz issues they acknowledge media have except as btw or > >> in > >> a > >> back handed manner? Am very awake to the fact the country desperately > >> needed > >> to > >> kick up the ict sector with facilitative legislation. I have personally > >> suffered > >> from its lacking. But we can't gloss over fundamental issues out of that > >> desperation! > >>> China has all the ict you want but wat kind of society is it. You > >> can't enjoy ict in a repressive environment. And this country is in the > >> cusp > >> of potential tyranny midwifed by our unresolved political equations that > >> we > >> are > >> just about to begin to resolve. If any political axis should be handed > >> control > >> over the media, even with its weaknesses, you will rue the day you > >> dismissed > >> our > >> protestations. > >>> I have written too much and may be I feel too strongly about this but no > >> emotions. Straight shooting perhaps. > >>> David > >>> > >>> Sent from my BlackBerry(R) wireless device > >>> > >>> -----Original Message----- > >>> From: "Barrack Otieno" <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com> > >>> > >>> Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2009 20:36:51 > >>> To: <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> > >>> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions<kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > >>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > >>> > >>> > >>> Bwana Makali, > >>> I think you are being sensational, lets try and get emotions out of > >>> this argument, for as long as i can remember media practioners have > >>> always rubbished the role of ICT in the countries socio-political > >>> landscape, i witnessed this behaviour in a forum sponsored by Unesco > >>> at the Grand Regency a couple of years ago which was apparently > >>> chaired by CEO's from leading media houses and i can see bwana makali > >>> repeating it on this list which is unaccepatble here even though we > >>> are democratic!!, give us a break sir. None the less may be we need > >>> our own ministry as Dr Siganga says to champion the ICT agenda and > >>> save us from this circus. The Media has a point and we all agree that > >>> there are contentious issues that need to be sorted out however let > >>> reason prevail, we have instituions in place to handle this kind of > >>> problems and they need to be put into use > >>> > >>> On Mon, Jan 5, 2009 at 6:59 PM, <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > >>>> The media's ref to the comm amendm bill 2008 (yuck!) as media or > >> ict bill is attributable to two factors. The media have a right and an > >> editorial > >> licence to abbreviate long and cumbersome names. Do you guys know how > >> difficult > >> it is to write headlines? Write one to test your editorial skills - 25 > >> letters > >> across 40cms and include all that communications bla bla!?> > >>>> Second, the media have a right to christen anything for ease of > >> reference. Why aren't you media phobes complaining about ndungu, waki, > >> kriegler or whatever other commissions that don't exist in fact and which > >> you have quite happily swallowed? wats wrong with the media or ict or > >> (next) > >> postal bill if it captures the essence of what is on the table or > >> disputed? > >> I > >> find it trite argument to insist that the media have misrepresented the > >> bill. If > >> there is nothing contestable about the others, or they are less > >> controversial or > >> for whatever reason they dim in significance, what is the big deal? > >>>> Finally, of course, some media could just have failed to see the > >> bigger picture and erroneously referred to it as media bill. In which > >> case > >> that > >> all fair in war and love. You can't moan till morning. > >>>> Let's face the facts. The law has bad provisions that only myopic > >> and selfish people or those with axes to grind the media can't see. > >> Unfortunately, it takes a very short time before the reality catches up > >> with > >> such people wen they find themselves on the receiving end. > >>>> Jog your memory. > >>>> David > >>>> Sent from my BlackBerry(R) wireless device > >>>> > >>>> -----Original Message----- > >>>> From: "waudo siganga" <emailsignet(a)mailcan.com> > >>>> > >>>> Date: Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:35:00 > >>>> To: <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> > >>>> Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy > >> Discussions<kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > >>>> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > >>>> > >>>> > >>>> Thanks for noting the changing goal posts in terms of the title of > >> this > >>>> Law Alice. In fact a short while ago some referred to it as the > >> "ICT > >>>> Bill" before briefly reverting to Kenya Communications > >> (Amendment) Bill > >>>> 2008 and then finally resting at "Media Bill". For me I > >> think I > >>>> understand the reasons for this confusion, particularly for the > >> public: > >>>> this is a compound Law in one basket. The lesson I learn is that in > >>>> future we need to change some things otherwise it is possible to reach > >> a > >>>> stage where useful ICT Policy, Legislative and regulatory development > >>>> processes are held back by things that really have nothing to do with > >>>> ICT. What if the courier services who are now regulated by this Law > >> had > >>>> successfully opposed it? We would be missing e-transactions > >> legislation > >>>> simply because of a function that has nothing to do with ICT. > >>>> For starters, the Government should restructure so that we have an ICT > >>>> only Ministry like they have in India, Egypt, Mauritius and other > >>>> countries worth copying. For many years after independence we had a > >>>> Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. That Minstry should be > >> revived > >>>> to focus on the interests of our media brothers. > >>>> Right now it is very difficult to pin down what is "ICT" in > >> Kenya. Some > >>>> of the issues being brought under the umbrella of "ICT" are > >> those that > >>>> the real ICT people cannot contribute to. Some people are saying > >>>> everything is OK because of "convergence". But as can be > >> seen, even > >>>> trying to converge Laws is an issue unto itself. > >>>> > >>>> Waudo > >>>> On Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:47:32 +0300, "alice" > >> <alice(a)apc.org> said: > >>>>> I agree and for Pete's/Jane's sake could media drop the > >> "media bill" > >>>>> reference. It is the Kenya Communications (Amendment) bill 2008, > >> which > >>>>> covers much much more than broadcasting issues. and much more > >>>>> importantly it finally deals with issues of convergence from a > >>>>> technological, content, regulatory, as well as economic > >> perspective. it > >>>>> is important that the communications "sector" adapts to > >> this global > >>>>> convergence trend/scenario, because it will provide for expansion> > >> of > >>>>> universal access to ICTs, in terms of reducing costs while > >> stimulating > >>>>> economic and social growth. This can only be done through > >> appropriate > >>>>> ICT policy and regulatory mechanisms, which the bill provides for. > >>>>> > >>>>> What we should be focusing on are the challenges that will come > >> with > >>>>> this dynamic because adaption to convergence is not the end point. > >>>>> > >>>>> > >>>>> > >>>>> best > >>>>> alice > >>>>> > >>>>> p.s. views are personal and not a reflection of any of the > >>>>> institutions/organisations I am affiliated with. > >>>>> > >>>>> > Great suggestions, > >>>>> > > >>>>> > I feel we can support the media but not in-toto. > >>>>> > > >>>>> > First, it would be nice of the MoA et. al. to let go of the > >> negative > >>>>> > "Media Bill" campaign and engage constructively > >> with other players. > >>>>> > > >>>>> > Secondly, media should consider calling ICT advocacy > >> personalities to > >>>>> > a forum where they can share how ICT issues have successfully > >> been > >>>>> > incorporated without the animosity that is common when > >> advocating for > >>>>> > media issues. > >>>>> > > >>>>> > I believe the media needs to feel secure that if their > >> arguments are > >>>>> > valid, they'll have our undivided support....issue by > >> issue. > >>>>> > > >>>>> > Wainaina > >>>>> > > >>>>> > On 1/4/09, Bill Kagai <billkagai(a)gmail.com> wrote: > >>>>> > > >>>>> >> The 4 fundamentals; > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> 1. When the Media fraternity suggested the bill be > >> rejected in-toto, >> ICT > >>>>> >> sector players felt this was akin to pouring the birth > >> water together >> with > >>>>> >> the baby. Personally I am happy the ICT issues did not go > >> down the >> drain. > >>>>> >> And I think that was what many of us were asking for. > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> 2. The Media has genuine concerns as Haron Ndubi > >> articulated in his >> legal > >>>>> >> opinion on the probibity of the bill. However, the Media > >> completely >> blacked > >>>>> >> out ICT sector concerns during our campaign to have the > >> bill signed. >> We even > >>>>> >> went out of the way to show the remedies to the issues > >> through the > >>>>> >> miscelleneous amendment bill as suggested in the very > >> fast legal >> opinion > >>>>> >> whose author requested we keep his/her identity > >> anonymous. > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> 3. ICT players and especially Kictanet ought to prove > >> it's the bigger >> wo/man > >>>>> >> by showing solidarity in the front-line with our cousins > >> in the Media > >>>>> >> looking for a way out of the quagmire. We do not have to > >> ignore them >> simply > >>>>> >> because they refused to side with us in our campaign. > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> 4. We are extremely careless in handling crisis. If you > >> are familiar >> with > >>>>> >> Newton's method of factoring variable change and the > >> Monty Hall > >>>>> >> > >> Paradox<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monty_Hall_paradox>, > >>>>> >> then we can analyse the options the President had > >> mathematically. > >>>>> >> 4a) Sign Bill > >>>>> >> 4b) Don't Sign Bill > >>>>> >> 4c) Do nothing and hold Kenyans in suspense. > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> Each option had a 33% probability of being the > >> 'right' decision. So, > >>>>> >> assuming he had not seen the bill earlier since he was > >> not the author >> and > >>>>> >> had decided not to sign the bill following the Media > >> owners petition, >> was it > >>>>> >> wise to change his decision from 'Don't Sign' > >> to 'Sign'?? > >>>>> >> Monty Hall > >> <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monty_Hall_paradox> proves >> that > >>>>> >> changing the decision increases the probability of > >> getting it 'right' >> to > >>>>> >> 66.6%. And that is proven by the fact that we [in ICT] > >> feel content >> and > >>>>> >> support ways of also making our brothers in the media > >> achieve 'State >> of > >>>>> >> Nirvana'. This bill will also give the Minister of> > >> Finance some >> head-up > >>>>> >> before he dismisses innovations such as M-Pesa without > >> prior >> knowledge. > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> Conclusion; > >>>>> >> For Makali, Openda, Kaikai and other leading Media > >> personalities who >> I know > >>>>> >> are on this list, why don't you invite ICT > >> stakeholders in to your >> media > >>>>> >> stations to engage Kenyans on what is good and what is > >> bad in the ICT >> [not > >>>>> >> Media] bill so that we can fight together against what we > >> feel is not >> good?? > >>>>> >> This has nothing to do with whether the grand coalition > >> will hold or >> not, > >>>>> >> since neither the Right Honourable nor His Excellency > >> drafted this >> bill. We > >>>>> >> did and the buck should stop with us!!! > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> -- > >>>>> >> Bildad Kagai > >>>>> >> MD - MediaCorp Limited > >>>>> >> Nairobi Stock Exchange Authorised Information Vendor > >>>>> >> Suite B2, Tetu Court, State House Avenue > >>>>> >> P. O. Box 20311 - 00200 > >>>>> >> Nairobi, Kenya > >>>>> >> Tel. 254 20 272 8332 > >>>>> >> Fax. Rendered Obsolete > >>>>> >> S - 1°17'13.8" > >>>>> >> E - 36°48'22.7" > >>>>> >> www.mediacorp.co.ke > >>>>> >> --- > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> On Sun, Jan 4, 2009 at 6:21 PM, alice > >> <alice(a)apc.org> wrote: > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >> > >>>>> >>> Thank you Wainaina. Happy 2009. > >>>>> >>> Now that the bill has been signed, what does the ICT > >> industry think >>> about > >>>>> >>> this whole debate? especially those who have worked > >> for such a long >>> time > >>>>> >>> with government to introduce legislation for the > >> sector? > >>>>> >>> > >>>>> >>> best > >>>>> >>> alice > >>>>> >>> > >>>>> >>> Happy New Year for ICT development in Kenya. > >>>>> >>> > >>>>> >>>> We can now look at the Media's concerns on > >> the Kenya Communications > >>>>> >>>> Act and support whatever amendments may be > >> justified. > >>>>> >>>> > >>>>> >>>> Wainaina > >>>>> >>>> > >>>>> >>>> > >>>>> >>>> > >>>>> >>>> > >>>>> >>> > >>>>> >>>_______________________________________________ > >>>>> >>> kictanet mailing list > >>>>> >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > >>>>> >>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >>>>> >>> > >>>>> >>> This message was sent to: billkagai(a)gmail.com > >>>>> >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > >>>>> >>> > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/billkagai%40gmail.com > >>>>> >>> > >>>>> >>> > >>>>> > > >>>>> > > >>>>> > >>>>> > >>>>> > >>>>> _______________________________________________ > >>>>> kictanet mailing list > >>>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > >>>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >>>>> > >>>>> This message was sent to: emailsignet(a)mailcan.com > >>>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > >>>>> > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emailsignet%40mailcan.… > >>>> > >>>> _______________________________________________ > >>>> kictanet mailing list > >>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >>>> > >>>> This message was sent to: dmakali(a)yahoo.com > >>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/dmakali%40yahoo.com > >>>> _______________________________________________ > >>>> kictanet mailing list > >>>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > >>>> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >>>> > >>>> This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com > >>>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… > >>>> > >>> > >>> > >>> > >>> -- > >>> Barrack O. Otieno > >>> ISSEN CONSULTING > >>> Tel: > >>> +254721325277 > >>> +254726544442 > >>> +254733206359 > >>> www.issenconsult.com > >>> http://projectdiscovery.or.ke > >>> To give up the task of reforming society is to give up ones > >>> responsibility as a free man. > >>> Alan Paton, South Africa> > >>> > >> > >> > >> > >> -- Barrack O. Otieno > >> ISSEN CONSULTING > >> Tel: > >> +254721325277 > >> +254726544442 > >> +254733206359 > >> www.issenconsult.com > >> http://projectdiscovery.or.ke > >> To give up the task of reforming society is to give up ones > >> responsibility as a free man. > >> Alan Paton, South Africa > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> kictanet mailing list > >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >> > >> This message was sent to: kwach(a)archway-productions.com > >> Unsubscribe or change your options at > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kwach%40archway-produc… > >> > >> > >> _______________________________________________ > >> kictanet mailing list > >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >> > >> This message was sent to: jokilimo(a)yahoo.com > >> Unsubscribe or change your options at > >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jokilimo%40yahoo.com > >> > >> > >> > >> > > > > -- > > Sent from my mobile device > > > > --- > > http://www.bungesms.com > > > > TWITTER - http://www.twitter.com/bungesms > > > > KABISSA.org - > > http://www.kabissa.org/about/news/member-spotlight-made-kenya-network > > > > KAMPALA Workshop presentation - > > http://m4d.kcl.co.ug/sites/default/files/presentations/BungeSMS_MadeinKenya… > > > > -- > Sent from my mobile device > > --- > http://www.bungesms.com > > TWITTER - http://www.twitter.com/bungesms > > KABISSA.org - http://www.kabissa.org/about/news/member-spotlight-made-kenya-network > > KAMPALA Workshop presentation - > http://m4d.kcl.co.ug/sites/default/files/presentations/BungeSMS_MadeinKenya… > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: daduda(a)nation.co.ke > Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/daduda%40nation.co.ke > > 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.

8 9

Kibaki signs Bill into law
by Wainaina Mungai 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

Happy New Year for ICT development in Kenya. We can now look at the Media's concerns on the Kenya Communications Act and support whatever amendments may be justified. Wainaina -- Sent from my mobile device --- http://www.bungesms.com TWITTER - http://www.twitter.com/bungesms KABISSA.org - http://www.kabissa.org/about/news/member-spotlight-made-kenya-network KAMPALA Workshop presentation - http://m4d.kcl.co.ug/sites/default/files/presentations/BungeSMS_MadeinKenya…

17 34

Fwd: W3C Workshop on the Mobile Web, 1-2 April, Maputo
by alice 09 Jan '09

09 Jan '09

FYI: Please note deadlines.... January 12, 2009 - Deadline for abstract submission see others below. best alice ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ THE WORLD WIDE WEB CONSORTIUM Africa Perspective on the Role of Mobile Technologies in Fostering Social Development 1-2 April 2009, Maputo, Mozambique Hosted by the Ministry of Science and Technology of the Government of Mozambique ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: http://www.w3.org/2008/10/MW4D_WS/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ W3C WORKSHOP CALL FOR PARTICIPATION The W3C Workshop on the «Africa Perspective on the Role of Mobile Technologies in Fostering Social and Economic Development» aims to understand specific challenges of using mobile phones and Web technologies to deliver services to underprivileged populations of developing countries, and to capture the specificities of the African context. More specifically, workshop participants will discuss the barriers for potential content providers (NGO/ grassroots, government, entrepreneur, etc.) to develop and deploy services, and the barriers for the targeted population to access these services (issues around illiteracy, internationalization, accessibility, usability, etc.). TOPICS OF DISCUSSION The Web, and ICT in general, has been recognized as a great tool to potentially resolve the historical divides between developed and developing economies by providing an infrastructure to deploy minimal services (health, education, business, government, etc.) to rural communities and under-privileged populations. A new hope is coming with the very high penetration rate of mobile telephony in emerging economies. The challenges that the workshop will explore involve a coordinated approach from different fields, and different actors. Topics that might serve as appropriate discussion points for position papers include, but are not limited to: * Analysis of use-cases / real-world projects. * Challenges of integrating ICTs in rural communities. * Usability and Human-Computer Interfaces (HCI) challenges of mobile browser and mobile content. * Challenges and potential solutions against illiteracy. * Analysis on the way the mobile phones and/or the Web could improve people's lives in developing countries. * Comparison between different potential platforms to support ICT's deployment (mobile phones, low-cost laptop, telecenters, etc.). * Challenges of sustainability, scalability and replicability. * Challenges and opportunity of integrating mobile phones in specific domains: eGovernment projects (mGovernment), e-health projects, disaster management, etc. WHO SHOULD ATTEND? Representatives from the following communities are encouraged to attend: * ICT for Development experts * Academics from developed and developing nations * Field practitioners and NGO/grassroots organizations * Local entrepreneurs with experience in ICT services * Usability, accessibility and Web experts * Mobile industry and digital divide experts REQIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION There is no participation fee and W3C membership is not required in order to participate in the workshop. Because of the space limitation and to ensure relevance of interests, each participant must submit a statement of interest before February 12, 2009. In addition, each participant wishing to have a paper published on the workshop Web site and/or wishing to make a presentation during the event must submit a position paper abstract no later than January 12, 2009. More details are available on the workshop page at: http://www.w3.org/2008/10/MW4D_WS/#Participation Authors will be notified of the decision of the Program Committee by January 25, 2009. All statement of interests, as well as selected papers will be made public before the workshop. IMPORTANT DATES * January 12, 2009 - Deadline for abstract submission * January 25, 2009 - Committee decisions and abstract selection * February 20, 2009 - Program released * March 10, 2009 - Deadline for full paper submissions * March 15, 2009 - End of sponsorship opportunity * March 20, 2009 - Deadline for registration * April 1-2, 2009 - Workshop WORKSHOP ORGANIZATION The workshop will be chaired by Stéphane Boyera (W3C,Chair of the Mobile Web for Social Development group)and George Sadowsky. The Program Committee currently hosts: * Ken Banks, Kiwanja.net * Anthony Bloome, Peace Corps * Philip Hoschka, W3C * Michael Maltese, Legatum Center * Gary Marsden, University of Cape Town * Americo Muchanga, University Eduardo Mondlane, Mozambique * David Sawe, Government of Tanzania * Alice Wanjira Munya, Kenya ICT Action Network * Raul Zambrano, UNDP SPONSOR THIS WORKSHOP! This workshop offers a sponsorship program, as a marketing opportunity that enables sponsors to showcase their organization and to communicate to the community of participants, and to the industry at large, that their organization is a driving force within the mobile Web for social development community. There are three levels of sponsorship (Platinum/Gold/Silver) offering a wide range of benefits. For further information, please contact Stéphane Boyera (boyera(a)w3.org) and Marie-Claire Forgue (mcf(a)w3.org) before 15 March 2009. Note: this sponsorship program is designed to enable participation by individuals and organizations with particular expertise, but who might not otherwise be able to attend due to travel or other costs. -- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

1 0

Re: [kictanet] Rwanda
by Barrack Otieno 08 Jan '09

08 Jan '09

Media issues aside, i read this article and i was wondering why cant we implement some of this ???? Electronic driving licences to be ready next month Monday, 5th January 2009 BY EDWIN MUSONI KIGALI - The Rwanda National Police (RNP) will start distributing new electronic driving licences next month to people who registered for them, the head of Traffic Police, Superintendent Robert Niyonshuti has said. The plastic license will have a built-in data bar that will contain all details of the holder. The process of registering for the electronic driving licenses commenced in the last quarter of 2008 and according to Niyonshuti, the police is now in the final stages of verifying the lists of the individuals who registered for the new licenses. Speaking to The New Times yesterday, Niyonshuti said: "registration for the licenses has ended and we are now finalising the process of verification of people put on the list to get them." Only those who owned old driving licenses were registered on the list to get the electronic ones. As a way of verification, police are checking details of the old licenses to see if they correspond with details in the police data base. Niyonshuti however added that there is a number of people who did not register for the new license because they had not got their new national identity cards. "We have considered those people as well, their registration is commencing mid this month and we request those who had not received the new IDs during the first exercise to come and register," said the traffic boss. Asked how Rwandans in the Diaspora would get their driving licences, Niyonshuti said that the National Steering Committee in charge of issuing the electronic identification is working in partnership with all Rwandan embassies abroad to ensure that every national in the Diaspora gets his or her document. "We will ensure that no Rwandan national misses or faces any hardship in getting the license," said Niyonshuti. The new state-of the-art driving licenses cost Rwf50, 000 and the government contracted the famous De La Rue, a British security printing, papermaking and cash handling Systems Company headquartered in Basingstoke Hampshire, to manufacture the cards. All the driving license categories in Rwanda will be required to be electronic and the new categories that did not exist before such as A1 and B1 for handicapped motorists will also be issued at the same technology and cost. Another new category is for D1 vehicles that carry over 30 passengers. http://www.newtimes .co.rw/index. php?issue= 13766&article= 12202<http://www.newtimes.co.rw/index.php?issue=13766&article=12202> Barrack O. Otieno ISSEN CONSULTING Tel: +254721325277 +254726544442 +254733206359 www.issenconsult.com http://projectdiscovery.or.ke To give up the task of reforming society is to give up ones responsibility as a free man. Alan Paton, South Africa

1 0

Re: [kictanet] FW: Nation Media Group sacks 100 journalists forsupporting Media Bill
by Marie-Anne Kinyanjui 08 Jan '09

08 Jan '09

Absolutely not true. -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+mkinyanjui=nation.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+mkinyanjui=nation.co.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of James Kagwe Sent: Tuesday, January 06, 2009 4:29 PM To: Marie-Anne Kinyanjui Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: [kictanet] FW: Nation Media Group sacks 100 journalists forsupporting Media Bill Got this forward from someone..... Just wondering if this is true.... someone who might be aware Subject: FW: Nation Media Group sacks 100 journalists for supporting Media Bill In an unprecedented move aimed at gagging their own journalists, Nation Media Group has sacked 100 journalists for refusing to be used to demonstrate against the so called draconian media bill. Media owners have taken an uncompromising view of any journalist who voices a different opinion from that of media owners when it comes to the media act. Some journalists have said clearly that the media act does not contain any draconian clauses but journalists are being forced to write stories to support media owners who are scared that the legislation will weaken their power. Some of those fired include Nation News Editor Emman Omari, NTV Anchor Winnie Mukami, Coast Bureau Chief Edman Kwen.... Read full story here http://www.kenyanewsroom.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3 7&Itemid=1 <http://www.kenyanewsroom.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id= 37&Itemid=1> _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet This message was sent to: mkinyanjui(a)nation.co.ke Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/mkinyanjui%40nation .co.ke 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.�

4 3

Digitally Networked Technology in Kenya's 2007-2008 Post-Election Crisis
by alice 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

<http://cyber.law.harvard.edu/publications/2008/Digitally_Networked_Technolo…> Digitally Networked Technology in Kenya's 2007-2008 Post-Election Crisis Abstract Written largely through the lens of rich nations, scholars have developed theories about how digital technology affects democracy. However, largely due to a paucity of evidence, these theories have excluded the experience of Sub-Saharan Africa, where meaningful access to digital tools is only beginning to emerge, but where the struggles between failed state and functioning democracy are profound. Using the lens of the 2007-2008 Kenyan Presidential Election Crisis, this case study illustrates how digitally networked technologies, specifically mobile phones and the Internet, were a catalyst to both predatory behavior such as ethnic-based mob violence and to civic behaviors such as citizen journalism and human rights campaigns. The paper concludes with the notion that while digital tools can help promote transparency and keep perpetrators from facing impunity, they can also increase the ease of promoting hate speech and ethnic divisions.

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ICT SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENT TRAINING, 19TH - 21ST JANUARY 2009
by Marketing ICT 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

*Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) /IT Enabled Services (ITES) * *SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENT (SLA) TRAINING * *19TH TO 21ST JANUARY 2009* Kenya ICT Board will facilitate a BPO/IT Enabled Services *Service Level Agreement training** course on 19th – 21st January 2009 from 8a.m. – 5.p.m*, *at Kenyatta International Conference Centre, Nairobi.* This course is designed to equip participants with detailed understanding of the issues that arise in the negotiation and delivery of SLAs for ICT and BPO services such as scope creep, resources stretch, time and expectations management. It encompasses skills for developing, managing and concluding contractual agreements for BPO/ICT related services, including but not limited to :- 1) BPO services 2) Call center services 3) Data/document management services, 4) Software development and/or animation 5) In-house agreements between departments, vendors, customers 6) IT Support and shared-services - 3rd Party ICT service-based contracts including hardware support and software support *Program * *Day 1:* · Designing a Sourcing Strategy · Designing Outsourcing Agreements *Day 2:* · Developing and Managing ICT Service and Service Level Agreements · Managing Outsourcing Agreements *Day 3:* · Main components of a Service Level Agreement · Success · Failure on completion, participants will be equipped with skills for:- · Developing outsourcing and sourcing strategies · Outsourcing procurement · Identifying and stating service requirements · Managing ICT service contracts Who should attend? · CEO's and CIO's · Head of Legal Departments · Business Development Directors and Managers · IT Directors · Risk Managers · Contract Director and Managers · Procurement and Purchasing Managers · Sales Directors and Managers The total cost is *$ 500( Ksh 40,000)* but Kenya ICT Board will subsidize the cost by 80% so that participants pay *Kshs. 8,000 only.* Please email events(a)ict.go.ke to book your space today and visit Kenya ICT Board, 12th Floor Teleposta Towers to make your payments. Deadline for registration: *12th January 2009**.* Limited availability. -- Marketing Department 12th Floor Teleposta Towers, Koinange Lane Entrance PO Box 27150 - 00100, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: 020-8015254 / 020-2089061 Fax: 020-2211962

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ETR machines
by nancy bosire 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Anyone know where i can get ERT Machines for between 15-20k? -- Sincerely yours, Nancy Bosire Managing Director Blueline Synergy Limited Tel: 020 2317230/29 Mobile: 0721907995 info@bluelinesynergy.com,nancy@bluelinesynergy.com http://www.bluelinesynergy.com Domain Registration.Web Design & Hosting.Software Development.LAN/WAN setup.Maintenance.Projectors. New/Used PCs & Laptops.Computer Accessories.Office Stationary "Your consistent thoughts create your consistent results." "Whatever your mind expects and demands, it will find a way to produce it." - Napoleon Hill Mahatma Gandhi once said:- First they ignore you, Then they laugh at you, Then they fight you, AND THEN YOU WIN!!!

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Fwd: Beta Testers Needed for BCAT
by Judy Okite 07 Jan '09

07 Jan '09

Info For those in the pursuit for elearning. Kind Regards, ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Priti Rohra <priti.rohra(a)n-syst.com> Date: Jan 7, 2009 10:25 AM Subject: Beta Testers Needed for BCAT To: w3c-wai-ig(a)w3.org Hello All, Right to education is universal. Education has evolved from blackboard to keyboard. Elearning has broken the geographical barriers and made it possible for people to access knowledge with ease and convenience. Despite the benefits offered by Elearning, it is not possible for students with special needs to access Elearning courses. Students using assistive technologies can with little ease access HTML based elearning but are deprived of the rich learning experience provided by technologies such as Flash. The common myth that prevails is that 'Flash cannot be made accessible' Its time that we over come this myth and change the mind set to 'Flash can be made Accessible' Net Systems Informatics & BarrierBreak Technologies have taken the initiative to break this myth and have launched the Beta version of "BarrierBreak Course Authoring Tool (BCAT)". BCAT is designed and developed to assist teachers/authors in creating accessible Flash based Elearning courses. BCAT is an easy to use tool with in-built keyboard and screen reader support enabling students with disabilities to experience the power of Elearning! BCAT comprises of two main components, Course Authoring Tool based on Moodle Learning Management System and Flash Architecture to access the course contents. In addition, the teacher/author can add various accessibility options to the course such as: Alternate Text, Captions, and Transcripts. Once the course is published, the contents are generated in to XML and users can access the course using a Flash player. The Flash course thus created provides users with an "Accessibility Panel" to meet their needs: - Show/Hide Captions - Audio Transcript - Change Themes - Small/Large Icons - Show/Hide Labels - Change Text Size We invite users with disabilities, teachers/authors, accessibility community at large to access BCAT and provide their valuable feedback and suggestions to make BCAT a tool for inclusive education. To access Beta version of BCAT, visit: http://www.n-syst.com/lms/login/signup.php. Once you sign up, you will receive an email including further instructions. Along with the email, you will receive a ReadMe file, documentation for creating a course, documentation for using the course and bug report file. The Beta Test Run is open until 20th January 2009. All suggestions are highly appreciated and will help us to make BCAT more user-friendly and accessible for all. Thanks & Regards, Net Systems Informatics & BarrierBreak Technologies Team www.n-syst.com |www.barrierbreak.com |e-learning(a)n-syst.com<%7Ce-learning(a)n-syst.com> Thanks & Regards, Priti Rohra Accessibility Tester Net Systems Informatics (India) Pvt. Ltd. Web: www.n-syst.com|www.barrierbreak.com Blog: www.barrierbreak.com/blog Please don't print this email unless you really need to. This will preserve trees on our planet. -- "Each of us is great insofar as we perceive and act on the infinite possibilities which lie undiscovered and unrecognized about us." James Harvey Robinson

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[Fwd: [Fibre-for-africa] East African Fibre]
by alice 06 Jan '09

06 Jan '09

Happy new year African fibre folk! Haven't given up hope on the African fibre mapipedia. I found a basic map on an ITU presentation of some East African fibre links. Grateful if someone could validate or even expand on them. http://www.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=10170216144600907258… Cheers.... Steve P.S. No doubt most have seen the France Telecom announcement of the ACE cable from Gabon to France. Have added it to the undersea cable map at http://manypossibilities.net/african-undersea-cables/ -- Steve Song http://manypossibilities.net _______________________________________________ Fibre-for-africa mailing list Fibre-for-africa(a)lists.apc.org http://lists.apc.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/fibre-for-africa

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FW: Nation Media Group sacks 100 journalists for supporting Media Bill
by James Kagwe 06 Jan '09

06 Jan '09

Got this forward from someone..... Just wondering if this is true.... someone who might be aware Subject: FW: Nation Media Group sacks 100 journalists for supporting Media Bill In an unprecedented move aimed at gagging their own journalists, Nation Media Group has sacked 100 journalists for refusing to be used to demonstrate against the so called draconian media bill. Media owners have taken an uncompromising view of any journalist who voices a different opinion from that of media owners when it comes to the media act. Some journalists have said clearly that the media act does not contain any draconian clauses but journalists are being forced to write stories to support media owners who are scared that the legislation will weaken their power. Some of those fired include Nation News Editor Emman Omari, NTV Anchor Winnie Mukami, Coast Bureau Chief Edman Kwen.... Read full story here http://www.kenyanewsroom.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3 7&Itemid=1 <http://www.kenyanewsroom.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id= 37&Itemid=1>

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Fw: RE: Kibaki signs Bill into law
by John Walubengo 06 Jan '09

06 Jan '09

looks like this response was burning and cant wait for next weeks discussion on the same. walu. --- On Tue, 1/6/09, Concerned Citizen <kenyacitizen(a)gmail.com> wrote: > From: Concerned Citizen <kenyacitizen(a)gmail.com> > Subject: RE: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Date: Tuesday, January 6, 2009, 11:24 AM > Please post this view on Kictanet. > > Four things are annoying this concerned citizen about this > debate. > > 1) The media has doen the country a dis-service by failing > to > highlight the good in this act. generally the media should > stop > chasing after the horse which has already bolted the > stable. The bill > is now an act. As far "media" concerns go - the > ONLY way to get rid of > offending emergency clause is to take the bill back to > parliament. > For the media to now paint the picture that the whole > fracas is the > fault of the executive is wrong. It was not the executive > that > approved this bill in various readings in parliament - it > was our MPs. > Why aren't we hearing more about that? > 2) Just who is the "media" we are talking about > here? Are the > interests of journalists who work on a daily basis being > represented > here? Personally I have not seen any notable JOURNALIST > supporters of > the bill complain about the bill. Could this be because > they know (as > a growing number of the public are coming to know)that this > is too > much ado about something that cannot now be changed? > 3) For Mr Makali to dismiss the concerns of the ICT > community on this > bill is short-sighted and arrogant. The ICT community has > been > campaigning for several clauses within the bill to be > passed for many > many years - its passing is major cause for celebration for > the entire > country as it creates new business opportunities that will > enrich OUR > economy. In my view, the good in this bill surpasses the > few negative > clauses that are being shoted about from every available > roof-top. > 4) As a member of the media I have never felt so cowed or > suppressed > in my life. My colleagues and I have been forced to accede > to this > "media" agenda without any consultation. > When the Media Bill (see how these ill-thought > abbreviations confuse > the public???) of last year was under debate, we happily > took to the > streets to fight for our press freedoms. > What is happening now is a travesty of our industry - what > was an > ordered campaign against unfair legislation is now becoming > a > witch-hunt where the power of the media is been used > negatively to > attack various structures. > Those who are shouting are risking the very same heavy > investments by > the media they seek to protect and reversing the gains its > taken > decades for this country to acheive which could now be > under a more > serious threat of misuse by a few individuals for personal > gain. > > There is no other industry that needs regulation as much as > the media right now. > > I think what the media should push for now - in the > public's interest > - is a review of the offending clauses by our non-tax > paying friends > in parliament and further, a review of the act itself which > attempts > to lump too many industries togther. > > The views I hold do not reresent the views of my employers > and are > purely personal in nature. > -----Original Message----- > On Behalf Of dmakali(a)yahoo.com > Sent: Monday, January 05, 2009 9:15 PM > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > > Barrack, I don't see our pt of diff. Media are the > first users of ict > and thea is no doubt ict is imptant in a modern ecoomy. > But that's > it. So is freedom of speech and access to information. > And we don't have to compare media and ict. What I > state and repeat is > the tendency by ict buffs to think only ict in isolation or > see > nothing wrong else with the aw as long as their concerns > are taken > care of, then say dismissively that there are other > iinstitutions to > deal with their legitimate concerns or reason should > prevail. Which? > How come ict folks are not raising their voices on thoz > issues they > acknowledge media have except as btw or in a back handed > manner? Am > very awake to the fact the country desperately needed to > kick up the > ict sector with facilitative legislation. I have personally > suffered > from its lacking. But we can't gloss over fundamental > issues out of > that desperation! > China has all the ict you want but wat kind of society is > it. You > can't enjoy ict in a repressive environment. And this > country is in > the cusp of potential tyranny midwifed by our unresolved > political > equations that we are just about to begin to resolve. If > any political > axis should be handed control over the media, even with its > weaknesses, you will rue the day you dismissed our > protestations. > I have written too much and may be I feel too strongly > about this but > no emotions. Straight shooting perhaps. > David > > Sent from my BlackBerry(R) wireless device > > -----Original Message----- > From: "Barrack Otieno" > <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com> > > Date: Mon, 5 Jan 2009 20:36:51 > To: <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy > Discussions<kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > > > Bwana Makali, > I think you are being sensational, lets try and get > emotions out of > this argument, for as long as i can remember media > practioners have > always rubbished the role of ICT in the countries > socio-political > landscape, i witnessed this behaviour in a forum sponsored > by Unesco > at the Grand Regency a couple of years ago which was > apparently > chaired by CEO's from leading media houses and i can > see bwana makali > repeating it on this list which is unaccepatble here even > though we > are democratic!!, give us a break sir. None the less may be > we need > our own ministry as Dr Siganga says to champion the ICT > agenda and > save us from this circus. The Media has a point and we all > agree that > there are contentious issues that need to be sorted out > however let > reason prevail, we have instituions in place to handle this > kind of > problems and they need to be put into use > > On Mon, Jan 5, 2009 at 6:59 PM, <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> > wrote: > > The media's ref to the comm amendm bill 2008 > (yuck!) as media or ict bill is attributable to two factors. > The media have a right and an editorial licence to > abbreviate long and cumbersome names. Do you guys know how > difficult it is to write headlines? Write one to test your > editorial skills - 25 letters across 40cms and include all > that communications bla bla!? > > Second, the media have a right to christen anything > for ease of reference. Why aren't you media phobes > complaining about ndungu, waki, kriegler or whatever other > commissions that don't exist in fact and which you have > quite happily swallowed? wats wrong with the media or ict or > (next) postal bill if it captures the essence of what is on > the table or disputed? I find it trite argument to insist > that the media have misrepresented the bill. If there is > nothing contestable about the others, or they are less > controversial or for whatever reason they dim in > significance, what is the big deal? > > Finally, of course, some media could just have failed > to see the bigger picture and erroneously referred to it as > media bill. In which case that all fair in war and love. You > can't moan till morning. > > Let's face the facts. The law has bad provisions > that only myopic and selfish people or those with axes to > grind the media can't see. Unfortunately, it takes a > very short time before the reality catches up with such > people wen they find themselves on the receiving end. > > Jog your memory. > > David > > Sent from my BlackBerry(R) wireless device > > > > -----Original Message----- > > From: "waudo siganga" > <emailsignet(a)mailcan.com> > > > > Date: Mon, 05 Jan 2009 18:35:00 > > To: <dmakali(a)yahoo.com> > > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy > Discussions<kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Kibaki signs Bill into law > > > > > > Thanks for noting the changing goal posts in terms of > the title of this > > Law Alice. In fact a short while ago some referred to > it as the "ICT > > Bill" before briefly reverting to Kenya > Communications (Amendment) Bill > > 2008 and then finally resting at "Media > Bill". For me I think I > > understand the reasons for this confusion, > particularly for the public: > > this is a compound Law in one basket. The lesson I > learn is that in > > future we need to change some things otherwise it is > possible to reach a > > stage where useful ICT Policy, Legislative and > regulatory development > > processes are held back by things that really have > nothing to do with > > ICT. What if the courier services who are now > regulated by this Law had > > successfully opposed it? We would be missing > e-transactions legislation > > simply because of a function that has nothing to do > with ICT. > > For starters, the Government should restructure so > that we have an ICT > > only Ministry like they have in India, Egypt, > Mauritius and other > > countries worth copying. For many years after > independence we had a > > Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. That Minstry > should be revived > > to focus on the interests of our media brothers. > > Right now it is very difficult to pin down what is > "ICT" in Kenya. Some > > of the issues being brought under the umbrella of > "ICT" are those that > > the real ICT people cannot contribute to. Some people > are saying > > everything is OK because of "convergence". > But as can be seen, even > > trying to converge Laws is an issue unto itself. > > > > Waudo > > On Mon, 05 Jan 2009 17:47:32 +0300, "alice" > <alice(a)apc.org> said: > >> I agree and for Pete's/Jane's sake could > media drop the "media bill" > >> reference. It is the Kenya Communications > (Amendment) bill 2008, which > >> covers much much more than broadcasting issues. > and much more > >> importantly it finally deals with issues of > convergence from a > >> technological, content, regulatory, as well as > economic perspective. it > >> is important that the communications > "sector" adapts to this global > >> convergence trend/scenario, because it will > provide for expansion of > >> universal access to ICTs, in terms of reducing > costs while stimulating > >> economic and social growth. This can only be done > through appropriate > >> ICT policy and regulatory mechanisms, which the > bill provides for. > >> > >> What we should be focusing on are the challenges > that will come with > >> this dynamic because adaption to convergence is > not the end point. > >> > >> > >> > >> best > >> alice > >> > >> p.s. views are personal and not a reflection of > any of the > >> institutions/organisations I am affiliated with. > >> > >> > Great suggestions, > >> > > >> > I feel we can support the media but not > in-toto. > >> > > >> > First, it would be nice of the MoA et. al. to > let go of the negative > >> > "Media Bill" campaign and engage > constructively with other players. > >> > > >> > Secondly, media should consider calling ICT > advocacy personalities to > >> > a forum where they can share how ICT issues > have successfully been > >> > incorporated without the animosity that is > common when advocating for > >> > media issues. > >> > > >> > I believe the media needs to feel secure that > if their arguments are > >> > valid, they'll have our undivided > support....issue by issue. > >> > > >> > Wainaina > >> > > >> > On 1/4/09, Bill Kagai > <billkagai(a)gmail.com> wrote: > >> > > >> >> The 4 fundamentals; > >> >> > >> >> 1. When the Media fraternity suggested > the bill be rejected in-toto, ICT > >> >> sector players felt this was akin to > pouring the birth water together with > >> >> the baby. Personally I am happy the ICT > issues did not go down the drain. > >> >> And I think that was what many of us were > asking for. > >> >> > >> >> 2. The Media has genuine concerns as > Haron Ndubi articulated in his legal > >> >> opinion on the probibity of the bill. > However, the Media completely blacked > >> >> out ICT sector concerns during our > campaign to have the bill signed. We even > >> >> went out of the way to show the remedies > to the issues through the > >> >> miscelleneous amendment bill as suggested > in the very fast legal opinion > >> >> whose author requested we keep his/her > identity anonymous. > >> >> > >> >> 3. ICT players and especially Kictanet > ought to prove it's the bigger wo/man > >> >> by showing solidarity in the front-line > with our cousins in the Media > >> >> looking for a way out of the quagmire. We > do not have to ignore them simply > >> >> because they refused to side with us in > our campaign. > >> >> > >> >> 4. We are extremely careless in handling > crisis. If you are familiar with > >> >> Newton's method of factoring variable > change and the Monty Hall > >> >> > Paradox<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monty_Hall_paradox>, > >> >> then we can analyse the options the > President had mathematically. > >> >> 4a) Sign Bill > >> >> 4b) Don't Sign Bill > >> >> 4c) Do nothing and hold Kenyans in > suspense. > >> >> > >> >> Each option had a 33% probability of > being the 'right' decision. So, > >> >> assuming he had not seen the bill earlier > since he was not the author and > >> >> had decided not to sign the bill > following the Media owners petition, was it > >> >> wise to change his decision from > 'Don't Sign' to 'Sign'?? > >> >> Monty Hall > <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monty_Hall_paradox> > proves that > >> >> changing the decision increases the > probability of getting it 'right' to > >> >> 66.6%. And that is proven by the fact > that we [in ICT] feel content and > >> >> support ways of also making our brothers > in the media achieve 'State of > >> >> Nirvana'. This bill will also give > the Minister of Finance some head-up > >> >> before he dismisses innovations such as > M-Pesa without prior knowledge. > >> >> > >> >> Conclusion; > >> >> For Makali, Openda, Kaikai and other > leading Media personalities who I know > >> >> are on this list, why don't you > invite ICT stakeholders in to your media > >> >> stations to engage Kenyans on what is > good and what is bad in the ICT [not > >> >> Media] bill so that we can fight together > against what we feel is not good?? > >> >> This has nothing to do with whether the > grand coalition will hold or not, > >> >> since neither the Right Honourable nor > His Excellency drafted this bill. We > >> >> did and the buck should stop with us!!! > >> >> > >> >> -- > >> >> Bildad Kagai > >> >> MD - MediaCorp Limited > >> >> Nairobi Stock Exchange Authorised > Information Vendor > >> >> Suite B2, Tetu Court, State House Avenue > >> >> P. O. Box 20311 - 00200 > >> >> Nairobi, Kenya > >> >> Tel. 254 20 272 8332 > >> >> Fax. Rendered Obsolete > >> >> S - 1°17'13.8" > >> >> E - 36°48'22.7" > >> >> www.mediacorp.co.ke > >> >> --- > >> >> > >> >> > >> >> On Sun, Jan 4, 2009 at 6:21 PM, alice > <alice(a)apc.org> wrote: > >> >> > >> >> > >> >>> Thank you Wainaina. Happy 2009. > >> >>> Now that the bill has been signed, > what does the ICT industry think about > >> >>> this whole debate? especially those > who have worked for such a long time > >> >>> with government to introduce > legislation for the sector? > >> >>> > >> >>> best > >> >>> alice > >> >>> > >> >>> Happy New Year for ICT development > in Kenya. > >> >>> > >> >>>> We can now look at the > Media's concerns on the Kenya Communications > >> >>>> Act and support whatever > amendments may be justified. > >> >>>> > >> >>>> Wainaina > >> >>>> > >> >>>> > >> >>>> > >> >>>> > >> >>> > >> > >>>_______________________________________________ > >> >>> kictanet mailing list > >> >>> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > >> >>> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >> >>> > >> >>> This message was sent to: > billkagai(a)gmail.com > >> >>> Unsubscribe or change your options at > >> >>> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/billkagai%40gmail.com > >> >>> > >> >>> > >> > > >> > > >> > >> > >> > >>_______________________________________________ > >> kictanet mailing list > >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >> > >> This message was sent to: emailsignet(a)mailcan.com > >> Unsubscribe or change your options at > >> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/emailsignet%40mailcan.… > > > >_______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > This message was sent to: dmakali(a)yahoo.com > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/dmakali%40yahoo.com > >_______________________________________________ > > kictanet mailing list > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > > > This message was sent to: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com > > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/otieno.barrack%40gmail… > > > > > > -- > Barrack O. Otieno > ISSEN CONSULTING > Tel: > +254721325277 > +254726544442 > +254733206359 > www.issenconsult.com > http://projectdiscovery.or.ke > To give up the task of reforming society is to give up ones > responsibility as a free man. > Alan Paton, South Africa > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet

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Fwd: [Ifip_ga] WG: Call for Papers | CENTERIS'2009 - Conference on Enterprise Information Systems
by waudo siganga 05 Jan '09

05 Jan '09

> Please consider contributing to and/or forwarding to the appropriate > groups and peers the following call for papers. > (please excuse us if you received this call more than once) > ------------- > > > ------------- CENTERIS’2009 | Call for Papers > ------------- Conference on ENTERprise Information Systems > > ------------- Ofir, Portugal, 07-09 October 2009 > > http://centeris.eiswatch.org > submission deadline (full paper): March 15, 2009 > optional submission of an abstract: January 15, 2009 > ------------- > > > Dear Sirs, > > It is our great pleasure to invite you to the CENTERIS’2009 - Conference > on ENTERprise Information Systems – aligning technology, organizations > and people, to be held in Ofir, Portugal, organized by the Polytechnic > Institute of Cávado and Ave and the University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto > Douro. > > This is the place where, from 07 to 09 October 2009, under the leitmotiv > of Enterprise Information Systems, academics, scientists, IT/IS > professionals, managers and solution providers from all over the world > will have the opportunity to share experiences, bring new ideas, debate > issues, introduce the latest developments in the field. > > CENTERIS’2009 is an international conference that will address the > largely multidisciplinary field embraced by the Enterprise Information > Systems (EIS), from the social, organizational and technological > perspectives. > The 3-day conference follows an innovative format, previewing scientific > sessions, tutorial and technical sessions, and simultaneously exhibitions > by solutions providers and product presentations. > There will also be a social program that will enable participants to get > to know each other and informally exchange information, contacts and > experiences, discuss projects, and incubate partnerships. > > ------------- > ------------- Submission and Publications > > Submissions will be reviewed on a double-blind review basis. > Only original contributions will be accepted. > > All accepted papers will be published in the Conference Proceedings Book > (full texts) with ISBN and on a CD-ROM to be distributed during the > conference. > > Authors of a selection of around 25 papers will be invited for enhancing > and extending their papers for inclusion in a book to be published by > IGI-Global, to be released by early 2010. Depending on the number of high > quality papers accepted, the Organization can consider the edition of two > books, instead of one. > > According to the Scientific Committee recommendations, authors of > selected papers will be invited to enhance the paper for publication in: > > - A Special Issue of the Information Resources Management Journal > (IRMJ); > - The International Journal of Enterprise Information Systems > (IJEIS); > - Journal of Theoretical and Applied Electronic Commerce Research > (JTAER); > - International Journal of Information Technologies and Systems > Approach (IJITSA); > - The emerging “Information and Communication Technologies for the > Advanced Enterprise: an international journal” (ICT'ae). > > At the end of this message you will find the composition of the Editorial > Board. > > ------------- > ------------- Hotel and travel arrangements > > The Conference will take place at AXIS OFIR Beach Resort Hotel in Ofir, > Esposende, Portugal, a 4-star Hotel located in one of the most beautiful > landscapes in the North of Portugal. The Atlantic coast of Esposende is > part of the Natural Park of the North Coast, a protected area of great > beauty. > Ofir is located in a wonderful historic and cultural region with three > locations/zones proclaimed as UNESCO cultural World Heritage within 100 > km: Historic Centre of Guimaraes (50Km), Historic Centre of Porto (40Km) > and Alto Douro Wine Region. > The Hotel Axis Ofir is located 35 km north of the Oporto International > Airport “Francisco Sa Carneiro”. It is connected by the highway A28. We > suggest getting a taxi which cost would be around 35 Euros (one way), > taking less than 30 min to the Hotel. > ------------- > > For more detailed information, please visit http://centeris.eiswatch.org > > We hope to see you in Ofir. > > Best wishes, > Manuela Cunha > Luís Amaral > João Varajão > > > ------------- General Chair > Maria Manuela Cruz-Cunha (mcunha(a)ipca.pt) > Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Portugal > > ------------- Program Chair > Luís Amaral (amaral(a)dsi.uminho.pt) > University of Minho, Portugal > > ------------- Organization Chair > João Eduardo Varajão (jvarajao(a)utad.pt) > University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Portugal > > ------------- Secretariat > Jacinta Martins > secretariat(a)centeris.eiswatch.org > > > ------------- > ------------- Editorial Board > (This list is not complete as the invitation process is still going on) > > Adamantios Koumpis, Research Programmes Division, ALTEC S.A, Grece > Adolfo Vanti, Universidade do Vale do Rio dos Sinos, Brasil > Albert Boonstra, University of Groningen, The Netherlands > Alberto Arroyo, Orienta, Spain > Alexandra Klen, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, Brazil > Álvaro Rocha, University Fernando Pessoa, Portugal > Ana Maria Fermoso Garcia, Pontifical University of Salamanca, Spain > Anca Draghici, Politehnica University of Timisoara, Romania > Andréa Paiva, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil > Angappa Gunasekaran, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, USA > Antonio Guevara, University of Malaga, Spain > Antonio José Balloni, CTI, Brasil > António Trigo, Polytechnic Institute of Coimbra, Portugal > Aysin Rahimifard, Loughborough University, UK > Bart H.M. Gerritsen, TNO N. Org. for App. Scientific Research, The > Netherlands > Calin Gurau, GSCM – Montpellier Business School, France > Carlos Ferrás Sexto, Universidad de Santiago de Compostela, Spain > Carlos Machado-Santos, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto, Portugal > Carmen de Pablos, Rey Juan Carlos University, Spain > Carola Jones, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Argentina > Carrillo Verdún, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Spain > Cesar Alexandre de Souza, University of Sao Paulo, Brazil > Chad Lin, Curtin University of Technology, Australia > Daniel Lübke, Leibniz University Hannover, Germany > Dimitrios Koufopoulos, Brunel University, UK > Dirk Schaefer, Georgia Institute of Technology Savannah, USA > Dirk Werth, Institut für Wirtschaftsinformatik, Germany > Dulce Domingos, University of Lisbon, Portugal > Duminda Wijesekera, George Mason University, USA > Edson Luiz Riccio, University of Sao Paulo, Brasil > Efrem Mallach, University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, USA > Eitel Lauria, Marist College, USA > Enrique Paniagua Arís, Universidad de Murcia, Spain > Ercan Oztemel, Marmara University, Turkey > Esra Kurt Tekez, Sakarya University, Turkey > Fahd Alizai, Victoria University Australia, Australia > Filomena Lopes, Universidade Portucalense, Portugal > Gabor Hosszu, Budpest University of Technology and Economics, Hungary > George Ioannou, Athens Faculty of Economics and Business, Greece > George Leal Jamil, FUMEC/BH, Brasil > Giorgio Bruno, Politecnico di Torino, Italy > Goran Putnik, University of Minho, Portugal > Heiko Duin, BIBA Bremer Institut für Produktion und Logistik GmbH, > Germany > Henrique O’Neill, ISCTE, Portugal > Igor Perko, University of Maribor, Slovenia > llan Oshri, Rotterdam School of Management, The Netherlands > Isabel Ramos, University of Minho, Portugal > Ivanilde Eyng, UEPG/UNAM, Brasil > Jaideep Motwani, Grand Valley State University, USA > Jaime Munoz, Autonomous University of Aguascalientes, Mexico > Jens Eschenbächer, BIBA Bremer Institut für Produktion und Logistik, > Germany > Jerzy Kisielnicki, University of Warsaw, Poland > Joao Barroso, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Portugal > Joao Varajao, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Portugal > Jorge Marx Gómez, Oldenburg University, Germany > José Bulas Cruz, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Portugal > José L. Caro, University of Malaga, Spain > José L. Leiva, University of Malaga, Spain > José Luis Mota Pereira, University of Minho, Portugal > Kam Hou Vat, University of Macau, Macau > Klara Antlova, Technical university of Liberec, Czech republic > Leonardo Soto, University of Guadalajara, Mexico > Leonel Santos, University of Minho, Portugal > Lorna Uden, Staffordshire University, UK > Luís Amaral, University of Minho, Portugal > Mahesh S. Raisinghani, Texas Woman's University, USA > Malihe Tabatabaie, University of York, UK > Manuel Filipe Santos, University of Minho, Portugal > Manuel Mora, Autonomous University of Aguascalientes, Mexico > Manuel Pérez Cota, Universidad de Vigo, Spain > Maria Argyropoulou, Brunel University, UK > Maria Manuela Cunha, Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Portugal > Marilisa Oliveira, UEPG/UNAM, Brazil > Marko Kolakovic, University of Zagreb, Croatia > Mayumi Hori, Hakuoh University, Japan > Michal Žemlicka, Charles University, Czech Republic > Mirjana Stojanovic, University of Belgrade, Serbia > Narciso Cerpa, University of Talca, Chile > Ovsei Gelman, CCADET-UNAM, Mexico > Özalp Vayvay, Faculty of Engineering Marmara University, Turkey > Ozden Ustun, Dumlupinar University, Turkey > Patrícia Gonçalves, Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Portugal > Paula Morais, Universidade Portucalense, Portugal > Paulo Tomé, Polytechnic Institute of Viseu, Portugal > Pedro Araújo, University of Beira Interior, Portugal > Pedro Campos, University of Porto, Portugal > Pedro Quelhas de Brito, University of Porto, Portugal > Pedro Ribeiro, University of Minho, Portugal > Pedro Soto Acosta, Universidad de Murcia, Spain > Polo, University of Sao Paulo, Brasil > Protogeros Nicolaos, University of Macedonia Economic and Social Scs., > Greece > Ramiro Gonçalves, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Portugal > Ricardo Gonçalves, Uninova, Portugal > Ricardo Simoes, Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Portugal > Richard Burkhard, San Jose State University, USA > Rinaldo Michelini, PMAR Lab of the University of Genova, Italy > Roberto Razzoli, PMAR Lab of the University of Genova, Italy > Rui Dinis Sousa, University of Minho, Portugal > Rui Pedro Rijo, Politecnic Institute of Leiria, Portugal > Samo Bobek, University of Maribor, Slovenia > Sanja Vranes, The Mihajlo Pupin Institute, Serbia > Simona Sternad, University of Maribor, Slovenia > Snezana Pantelic, The Mihajlo Pupin Institute, Serbia > Subhasish Dasgupta, George Washington University, USA > Tahinakis Panayiotis, University of Macedonia Economic and Social Scs., > Greece > Valentina Janev, The Mihajlo Pupin Institute, Serbia > Vladanka Acimovic-Raspopovic, University of Belgrade, Serbia > Vitor Basto Fernandes, Polytechnic Institute of Leiria, Portugal > Vítor Carvalho, Polytechnic Institute of Cávado and Ave, Portugal > Vítor Santos, Microsoft, Portugal > Vladimír Modrák, Technical University of Kosice, Slovakia > Vojko Potocan, University of Maribor, Slovenia > Wai Ming Cheung, University of Bath, UK > > > >

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Employment Opportunity: Head of Policy, African Internet Service Providers Association
by Brian Longwe 05 Jan '09

05 Jan '09

Job Description: Head of Policy Based in Nairobi, Kenya, the Head of Policy for AfrISPA secretariat is a new position and is yet to be filled. This is a full time employee position. He/She reports to the General Manager and with his support monitors, manages and evaluates AfrISPA's policy agenda. He/She plays a key role in developing the AfrISPA community by enhancing the policy function, expanding the scope and range of policy actions and providing focused and sustained engagement with policy-makers, regulators and key stakeholders at national, regional and continental level. Under the supervision of the General Manager, the Head of Policy is responsible for; - Raising the profile of AfrISPA as a significant influence on policy and regulation for the Internet in Africa - Working strategically with members of the Board, management and development teams to create, shape and disseminate the association's policy positions and key messages - Developing the association's policy function - Representing the association at a senior level, engaging with appropriate stakeholders to maintain the quality and relevance of our work and to increase the association's impact on the development of public policy - Leading the policy function, managing the policy team - Leading the development and delivery of policy projects to meet strategic objectives - Identifying and disseminating the implications for the Internet and Internet stakeholders of changes in government, AU and international policy and regulation - Maintaining an overview and identifying gaps and new areas for policywork and making appropriate recommendations to the senior management team - Managing projects to improve the evidence base of our policy positions - Providing other members of the team with appropriate briefings, papers and presentations - Providing policy input to the association's interdisciplinary projects - Writing policy content for the website and other communications activities - Contributing to the planning and management of annual work programmes - Seeking out, developing and managing opportunities for grant funding and commissioned work - Taking part in corporate communications activities, development and fundraising efforts as required Interested candidates should email their CV and full contacts to brian(a)afrispa.org *AfrISPA Policy Advocacy* The next phase of AfrISPA's work requires enhanced capacity on the policy and regulatory front. To this end the secretariat will be expanded to include a "Head of Policy" position. This role would design, organise and implement policy advocacy actions across the entire spectrum of issues that affect Internet markets in Africa. This will follow AfrISPA Policy Development Strategic Canvas as follows: Policy Development: Strategic Canvas - Provide industry perspective on policy as it relates to the Internet industry and act as an interface between government bodies and the wider public - Develop policies in the best interest of the members and protect and promote these interests in regional and international fora - Provide and promote educational opportunities that will enhance and empower technical and policy understanding of the Internet - Develop policies that will guide members into active participation in the development of a free and open telecommunications market in their respective markets - Mobilise ISPAs to deal with legal issues such as child pornography and cyber crime as a real threat to the growth of the Internet as a business tool and enabler - Encourage the development and use of local content, particularly e-Government and online news services - Value addition through assistance in setting up standards and guidelines for web development and promoting the setting up of server farms - Develop policies to protect Internet user's privacy and rights of freedom of expression. Comment constructively on draft Bills in African countries relating to these issues. Activities - Create a new position within the AfrISPA secretariat for a Head of Policy. - Identify key issues currently affecting Africa's Internet industry at national, regional and continental levels and design, develop and deliver suitable policy interventions. *About AfrISPA* The African Internet Services Providers Association, AfrISPA, is the Pan-African association of Internet Services Providers Associations of the countries in Africa. AfrISPA was founded in Johannesburg, South Africa in August 2001 when a gathering of ISP and ISPA representatives from various countries in Africa met to discuss and deliberate ways of addressing common issues and concerns that affect the growth and stability of the Internet in Africa. By engaging donors for funding and through the commitment of pioneer members AfrISPA has implemented a number of activities that include:- • Establishment of Internet Exchange Points: AfrISPA has directly and indirectly contributed to the establishment of IXPs in 22 countries. • Establishment of ISP Associations • High-level representations: AfrISPA has gained recognition as a key African institution that is passionate about the role of the Internet as a vital underpinning for national, regional and continental growth and development. On this basis, AfrISPA engages together in thought leadership, policy development and strategic planning through representation in various key local, regional and international fora. Key organisational affiliations include membership of the ITU through the ITU-D, a close working relationship with EuroISPA, involvement in the ICANN process, partnerships with various key African institutions such as AfriNIC, AfNOG, AfTLD, the ATU and platforms at key events. • Position Papers: A vital instrument in AfrISPA's advocacy activities is position papers that are developed around crucial issues that affect the development and growth of the Internet in the region. These have included areas such as: Infrastructure development, Content, Voice over IP, Spam and Regional Integration among others. In collaboration with others, AfrISPA has contributed towards the awareness and adoption of the Open Access framework for major communications infrastructure. It is worth noting that most of the currently ongoing submarine fibre optic projects as well as many of the terrestrial backbone projects have recognised the principles of Open Access and structured their funding and business models along those lines. • Regulatory reports: Regulatory regimes that provide an environment conducive to healthy growth of the ICT sector are essential for Africa's development. To this end, AfrISPA conducts periodic assessments of various countries' regulatory environments and provides these reports to members to facilitate local advocacy through benchmarking and to contribute towards smoother regulatory harmonisation across the region. These reports provide an important evidence base to justify local actions aimed at positive policy and regulatory reform. • Workshops and training: Capacity building is one of AfrISPA's primary objectives. AfrISPA is well positioned to identify needs in this area and respond through the development of appropriate materials which are delivered through workshops and training sessions. -- Brian Munyao Longwe e-mail: blongwe(a)gmail.com cell: + 254 722 518 744 blog : http://zinjlog.blogspot.com meta-blog: http://mashilingi.blogspot.com

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Freedom Next Time
by Gakuru Alex 03 Jan '09

03 Jan '09

Recently posed to "ke-users" list:- > I find there exists several kinds of reality, e.g. "prepared" reality, > "imagined" reality, "forced" reality, "others' " reality, "real" > reality, etc. The question: which and whose, of them all, is the "one > true reality"? Advised by a member: Try getting hold of John Pilger's, the Australian journalist, book "Freedom Next Time" and you might get a very good idea of the "one true reality" on this unending conflict. Enjoy reviews: <http://www.guardian.co.uk/books/2006/jun/03/highereducation.news> <http://www.thebookbag.co.uk/reviews/index.php/Freedom_Next_Time_by_John_Pil…> Happy New Year, Alex

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Undersea cable cut disrupts Mideast and India communications
by S.Murigi Muraya 01 Jan '09

01 Jan '09

Happy New Year to KICTANET We need at least 5 undersea fiber optic cables connecting us (on different routes) to the rest of the world. Trust that our government requires cable companies to involve and educate Kenyan telecom engineers in the installation and repair of any cable Kenya.go.ke owns a part of. http://telecommagazine.com/newsglobe/print.asp?ID=AR_4670 *Undersea cable cut disrupts Mideast and India communications (Summarized)* by Kendrick Struthers-Watson Mon. December 22, 2008 A French cable ship, the CS Raymond Croze, has begun repairing two badly damaged cables in the Mediterranean that were severed on Friday, Dec. 19, disrupting Internet and telephone communications. Sources indicate the cables were cut within five minutes of each other, possibly by a trawler net. A robot submarine will locate the ends of the cables on the sea bed and bring them to the surface to be reconnected. This is not the first time there's been trouble along these cable routes. Last January, two of the three cables connecting Europe with Asia via the Middle East were cut. What is more pressing about the current situation is that all three cables were affected. Until these cables are fixed, service providers in the Middle East and South Asia must route their European traffic through Southeast Asia and across the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Despite the problems these cable cuts have caused, Alan Mauldin, Research Director for Telegeography, believes that new cable construction should help prevent future outages. "Many new cable systems are slated to enter service between Europe and Egypt in the next few years, including Telecom Egypt's TE North cable, Orascom's MENA system, FLAG's HAWK cable, the IMEWE consortium cable, and the EIG consortium cable," he said. Mauldin added that while constructing multiple cables does not guarantee against outages, the introduction of these new systems will provide additional routing options and improve resiliency.

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(no subject)
by Florence Etta 31 Dec '08

31 Dec '08

My dear, Allow me to wish you a 2009 full of joy, laughter & accomlplishments. As you review your 2008 and move in to a full embrace of the new year, may you acknowledge the gift of the new year, cherish the opportunities in the new year and live the experiences of the year to the full so as to make a difference in our world. May the good Lord bless you and yours in a really special way in 2009. Best wishes, Florence Etta New York

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