- KICTANet - KICTANet

[cybercrime] hidden cost of commoditizing IT Talent
by Patrick A. M. Maina 01 Feb '19

01 Feb '19

There's a funny corporate culture that I have observed in Kenya that could shed some light on why local IT systems appear so vulnerable: TALENT COMMODITIZATION. Take the banking industry for example, I recall a while back seeing some chatter on twitter about how big brands UNDERPAY key IT staff (I.e. the hands on technical staff like sysadmins / app admins / dbadmins & devs) in order to "save" on manpower costs. In this day and age that is not an intelligent thing to do. Others assume that outsourcing to India will magically solve for costs, quality and security. I have worked on projects with "world-class" offshore teams and what I saw was a minefield of HIDDEN COSTS if you don't have your own savvy supervisory / QC team. Then there is the "contract fixes everything" fanatics. Contracts mean nothing if you can't detect shoddy work - and if going to court after the fact is almost impossible given risks of PR blowback (in image sensitive industries). In many cases such contracts are just for CYA (avoiding blame or passing audit reviews). Some tradition-heavy institutions still put IT under Finance directors / VPs or GMs instead of having IT representation at board level. This makes it hard for IT to push back on top-down "spreadsheet inspired" directives. You don't increase shareholder value by setting up your critical functions for downstream failure (or putting the entire org or at risk just to hit annual growth targets). Beefing up the Infosec unit is pointless if the underlying architecture is full of holes. There is only so much duct taping that can be done. Worse if that team is underpaid as well. It's also interesting that many local companies don't have a "specialist path" for technical talent advancement. This limits the political/decision making clout for technical talent as well as limiting their personal growth. Hopping / side hustling / track switching (e.g. to management) is the end result. These mistakes have cost the financial industry (for example) a whopping 17BILLION in potentially avoidable losses (and still counting). So much for HR "cost savings". :-/ I think the Infosec crisis in Kenya is just a SYMPTOM of bigger "organisation and culture" issues - and short term thinking is right at the heart of it. "Financial institutions in Kenya have recently become a soft target for cybercriminals, with police records showing that they lost about Sh17 billion to the fraudsters in 2016, up from Sh14 billion in 2015." https://mobile.nation.co.ke/business/Police-probe-130-bank-cyber-fraud-susp…

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Call for Applications: Internet of Rights Fellowship 2019
by Mallory Knodel 01 Feb '19

01 Feb '19

Hi all, Please share our call for applications for this year's Internet of Rights fellowship. The deadline for applications is Friday, 24 February. Thank you! -Mallory === Download the call: https://share.article19.io/index.php/s/f9SzmAYzBizdMg5 # Call for Applications: ARTICLE 19 Internet of Rights Fellowship ARTICLE 19 Team Digital is looking for three new fellows to join the 2019 cohort of the Internet of Rights Fellowship. Since 2014 ARTICLE 19 has been a pioneer in the technical governance and evolution of the global Internet, bridging the knowledge gap within the technical and human rights communities. In doing so, ARTICLE 19 has carved out a key platform for civil society engagement in these bodies; however, there remains the need for greater, more diverse, and more sustainable civil society participation. In its third year, the Internet of Rights Fellowship will equip a diverse community of civil society organizations and their representatives with the tools they need to carry out long-term, influential engagement in the bodies setting the technical policies and standards that uphold the global Internet architecture. Fellows will be expected to have some working knowledge and experience with the technical and policy discussions across the Internet governance landscape. Under the guidance of their assigned mentors, they will develop a deeper knowledge of their target issue area and the skills necessary to meaningfully contribute to discussions in order to further human rights considerations in Internet governance bodies. By the end of the program, fellows will be well equipped to continue developing a robust approach to human rights within these technical communities beyond the life of the program. # The Fellowship The Internet of Rights Fellowship program is designed to be flexible and dynamic to account for each individual’s skills, interests, and experience. Prospective fellows are encouraged to be creative in their approach. Upon selection, fellows will work with ARTICLE 19 Team Digital to elaborate upon their work plan, develop a schedule, and identify potential deliverables. Beyond lending structure to the fellowship, this exercise is intended to give our team insights into how we may best support each individual. The 2019 Internet of Rights Fellowship will start in March and last for one year, during which time fellows will work closely with their mentor—a designated member of our team—on one of the following priority areas: * Algorithmic decision making: This is a technical track on which fellows will complement our policy work on algorithms, artificial intelligence and machine learning to address how algorithmic decision-making can be guided by international human rights law. Algorithms fellows may work on developing research, and/or work in both established and emerging spaces, like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the Partnership on AI (PAI). * Public Interest Internet Standards: This is a technical and policy development track on which fellows will contribute to Article 19's work at the Human Rights in Protocols Considerations Research Group of the Internet Research Task Force (IRTF), or in developing novel technical methods for measuring human rights aspects of existing Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) standards. * Radio Network Hardware: This is a technical or humanities track in which the fellow will complement our policy work by studying specific standardization projects ongoing in either the IEEE 802 LAN/MAN Standards Committee (LMSC) or the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). The fellowship has the goal of uncovering hidden effects on human rights of technical choices at the lowest layer of Internet architecture: hardware. Fellows may be given the task to assist ARTICLE 19 representatives with things like Letter Ballots, technical reviews and attend standardization meetings. Each Fellow will be expected to participate in three Internet governance-related meetings over the course of the year. Costs incurred during participation in meetings and conferences as part of this program will be covered by the Fellowship. Fellows will also receive a monthly honorarium of USD 300 over the duration of their fellowship. # The Fellows Fellows are expected to commit to an average of eight hours per week engaging in forum-specific discussions, participating in working groups, and completing projects. The program will be conducted entirely in English; therefore, fellows must have written and spoken proficiency in the language. For all priority areas, the ideal fellow will have: * Technical competence, which may include knowledge and experience in computer networking and protocols, systems design, and architecture * Prior experience contributing to Internet governance fora, and/or in-depth knowledge of their target body * A clear commitment to protecting and promoting human rights and Internet freedom. Applicants from the Global South, women, and other under-represented groups are encouraged to apply. # Application Submissions The deadline for applications is Friday, 24 February 2019. Interested applicants should submit the following to fellowship(a)article19.org: * Curriculum vitae * Statement of interest, indicating priority area and proposed work plan (maximum of two pages) * Contact information of two references Questions can be directed to fellowship(a)article19.org -- Mallory Knodel Head of Digital :: article19.org gpg fingerprint :: E3EB 63E0 65A3 B240 BCD9 B071 0C32 A271 BD3C C780 -- Mallory Knodel May First/People Link :: mayfirst.org gpg fingerprint :: E3EB 63E0 65A3 B240 BCD9 B071 0C32 A271 BD3C C780

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Emerging Trends - India adopting National Champion policy to accelerate growth of indigenous industries
by Patrick A. M. Maina 31 Jan '19

31 Jan '19

It's a proven mid-term strategy for stimulating rapid industrialization and international competitiveness of indigenous industries: "National champions are promoted for the purpose of job creation, technology and skill acquisition, and building competitive advantage. [Example:] 98 of the Chinese companies listed on the Fortune Global 500 list are state owned, including China’s 12 largest companies. Through government policies targeting the SOE sector, key companies have grown drastically in size to now be among the largest companies globally." - Foreign Policy Journal (Link: China’s National Champions: State Support Makes Chinese Companies Dominant | Foreign Policy Journal) | | | | | | | | | | | China’s National Champions: State Support Makes Chinese Companies Domina... China's efforts to centrally plan the economy make it difficult for foreign companies to enter the Chinese marke... | | | "National champions have an inherent multiplier effect that politicians can leverage, for instance to create domestic jobs or increase wages. They often create so-called national brands – an extension of the national champions themselves. These brands also benefit from government lobbying, as Airbus did during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to China in January 2018, during which the Chinese government signalled an interest in buying 184 Airbus jets. Traditional strategic sectors include homeland security and defence companies, utilities (power generation companies), telecommunication service providers and key manufacturing industries, while technology and healthcare are new entries to that list." - World Economic Forum (16th Jan 2019) (Link: A multipolar world brings back the national champions) | | | | | | | | | | | A multipolar world brings back the national champions Strong national consumer brands stand to benefit from greater demand from domestic consumers | | | New Delhi (31st Jan 2019): "The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has asked government departments and public sector units to avoid choosing foreign products and brands at a time when the government is trying to boost domestic manufacturing through PM Narendra Modi’s flagship ‘Make in India’ programme launched at the start of his tenure." “Our concern is Make in India. We want progressive, continuous increase of indigenous components in products procured by us.” - Nripendra Misra (principal secretary to the India's Prime Minister) PMO tells departments, PSUs to pick ‘Made in India’ products | | | | | | | | | | | PMO tells departments, PSUs to pick ‘Made in India’ products “Our concern is Make in India,” Nripendra Misra told ET. “We want progressive, continuous increase of indigenous... | | |

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CALLS FOR PUBLIC COMMENTS ON THE BUDGET POLICY STATEMENT 2019
by Deborah Wanjugu 31 Jan '19

31 Jan '19

Dear Listers, I came to learn the Treasury has issued a call for public comments on the Budget Policy Statement 2019. I never saw any particular firm plans the Government has for ICT so I thought it best to bring this to your attention, albeit a little later than I should have. I could be wrong, though. Maybe I had high expectations owing to the exposure I get from you all. What I love about this group is there are so many diverse opinions on various issues. I think it would be great to let the Government hear all these well - considered opinions on its ICT plans. The deadline for institutions to put in their comments was on Friday, which means Kictanet might not be able to, but as individuals you would be able to participate. The deadline for submitting our comments is 31st January 2019, i.e. this Thursday. I created a public Google folder for this purpose. You can access it here: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1LsgzmXlEgPagqUDN-qQqlQEeEzK9pYqM You are free to share this widely. Kind regards, Deborah

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Fwd: [afnog] AFRINIC Internet Measurement Awareness Survey
by Barrack Otieno 31 Jan '19

31 Jan '19

Listers, Kindly participate in this survey if you can spare a few minutes. Best Regards ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Musab Isah <musab.isah(a)afrinic.net> Date: Thu, 31 Jan 2019 11:54:45 +0400 Subject: [afnog] AFRINIC Internet Measurement Awareness Survey To: afnog(a)afnog.org Dear colleagues, AFRINIC has launched a survey with the aim of assessing the current status of Internet measurement in Africa. Your responses will help AFRINIC understand the available measurement infrastructure on the continent as well as the gap in the infrastructure and the relevant skills that need to be filled. AFRINIC will use the responses as guide in building Internet measurement programmes to train network operators, regulators, end users, and other stakeholders in the forthcoming summits, conferences, and *nog meetings across the continent. We invite you to take the survey available in both English (https://survey.afrinic.net/index.php/survey/index/sid/634362/newtest/Y/lang… <https://survey.afrinic.net/index.php/survey/index/sid/634362/newtest/Y/lang…>) and French (https://survey.afrinic.net/index.php/survey/index/sid/634362/newtest/Y/lang… <https://survey.afrinic.net/index.php/survey/index/sid/634362/newtest/Y/lang…>). The deadline for filling the survey is 28 February 2018. Please read more on the benefits and the reasons behind the need for assessing the current status of Internet measurement in Africa from our blog here. https://www.afrinic.net/blog/421-africa-internet-measurement-awareness-surv… <https://www.afrinic.net/blog/421-africa-internet-measurement-awareness-surv…> …………………………………………. Chers collègues, AFRINIC a lancé un sondage dans le but d'évaluer l'état actuel de la métrologie des réseaux en Afrique. Vos réponses aideront AFRINIC à comprendre l'infrastructure de la métrologie disponible sur le continent, ainsi que les lacunes dans l’infrastructure et les lacunes au niveau des compétences. Les résultats de ce sondage servira à élaborer des programmes de métrologie des réseaux destinés à former les opérateurs de réseau, les régulateurs, les utilisateurs finaux et d'autres partenaires lors des prochains sommets, conférences et réunions à travers le continent. Nous vous invitons à répondre au sondage qui est disponible en anglais (https://survey.afrinic.net/index.php/survey/index/sid/634362/newtest/Y/lang… <https://survey.afrinic.net/index.php/survey/index/sid/634362/newtest/Y/lang…>) et en français (https: // survey .afrinic.net <http://afrinic.net/> / index.php / survey / index / sid / 634362 / newtest / Y / lang / fr). La date limite pour remplir le questionnaire est 28 février 2018. Consultez notre blog ici pour

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Fwd: Results of the IGF 2019 Call for issues
by Barrack Otieno 30 Jan '19

30 Jan '19

Listers, This might be of interest. Best Regards ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Faye Makane <makanefa(a)gmail.com> Date: Wed, 30 Jan 2019 20:03:05 +0000 Subject: Results of the IGF 2019 Call for issues To: Cc: Secretariat AfIGF <africanigf(a)gmail.com> Dear Colleagues, Following the call for issues sent in December 2018, kindly find attached the results which were sent out today by the IGF Secretariat during the first IGF MAG Consultations. I wish to thank all those of you who have contributed to it following the call which was forwarded to you. Best regards, ---------------- Makane Faye (Mr.) African Internet Governance Forum Secretariat, African Union https://www.afigf.africa/ West African Internet Governance Forum, ECOWAS www.waigf.org BP 12130 CP 12000 Dakar, Sénégal Email: makanefa(a)gmail.com facebook.com/makane.faye.eca Twitter: @thianar2 Skype: makaneaddis -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A

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Opportunity for East African Lawyers | Digital Rights Litigation Surgery
by Grace Githaiga 30 Jan '19

30 Jan '19

This might be of interest to our lawyers here. From: "Michael Moss" Date: 30-01-2019 17:56 Dear all, There is one week left to apply for a place at our next digital rights litigation surgery (East Africa). [1] Please do share the call with any legal contacts who may be interested. The surgery is open to lawyers working in Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. Further details are in my email below. Best wishes, Michael The Media Legal Defence Initiative (MLDI) has opened applications for an East Africa Digital Rights & Online Freedom of Expression Litigation Surgery. I would be grateful if you were willing to share the call below with lawyers working in the region: Call for Applications: East Africa Digital Rights & Online Freedom of Expression Litigation Surgery 8-12 April, Kampala, Uganda The Media Legal Defence Initiative (MLDI) will be running a litigation surgery on the right to online freedom of expression, digital rights and the internet. This specialised, fully funded, legal workshop is for lawyers based in Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. Applications are currently open. The deadline for submitting applications is Thursday 7 February 2019. For further information and to apply, please visit: https://www.mediadefence.org/east-africa-lawyers-digital-rights-training-20… Michael Moss Project Coordinator | Media Legal Defence Initiative -- Grace Githaiga Co-Convenor, Kenya ICT Action Network Links: ------ [1] https://www.mediadefence.org/east-africa-lawyers-digital-rights-training-20…

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Re: [kictanet] REQUEST FOR PARTICIPATION IN DISCUSSING THE ICT PRACTITIONERS BILL
by Grace Githaiga 30 Jan '19

30 Jan '19

Thanks Shelly. Please avail us with the copy of the Bill so that we know its content, and therefore see who can come. Asante. Rgds Grace Get Outlook for Android<https://aka.ms/ghei36> ________________________________ From: Shelly Mwirichia <shelly(a)apsea.or.ke> Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2019 10:42:22 AM To: ggithaiga(a)kictanet.or.ke; ggithaiga(a)hotmail.com Cc: kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke; Irene Njeri Wanyoike; 'APSEA' Subject: REQUEST FOR PARTICIPATION IN DISCUSSING THE ICT PRACTITIONERS BILL Dear Grace Githaiga-Convener KICTANET, Greetings from APSEA. We were referred to you by Mrs. Irene Wanyoike, APSEA Chairman. We received an invitation from a nominated MP- Hon. Godfrey Osotsi, who is sponsoring the ICT Practitioners bill in the National Assembly as a Private member bill. We are therefore inviting KICTANET members, to join APSEA in discussing the key highlights of the bill and to give input. The meeting to discuss has been tentatively scheduled for Tuesday 5th February 2018, the venue is Professional Centre and will start at 9.00 a.m. Kindly confirm your availability to attend and also confirm representatives of KICTANET who will participate. We will appreciate the confirmation and number of representatives for logistical purposes. Regards, Shelly Mwirichia-APSEA.

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Fwd: [Internet Policy] Workshop on global digital justice
by Barrack Otieno 30 Jan '19

30 Jan '19

Listers, This might be of interest to some of you. Best Regards ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: parminder <parminder(a)itforchange.net> Date: Wed, 30 Jan 2019 08:17:13 +0530 Subject: [Internet Policy] Workshop on global digital justice To: "internetpolicy(a)elists.isoc.org" <internetpolicy(a)elists.isoc.org> Dear All Just Net Coalition <https://justnetcoalition.org/> plans a meeting between March 25th to 27th in Bangkok as a strategic get together of groups interested in issues of equity and social justice in the digital era. The plan is to shape and take forward a global digital justice agenda, working together as a network. This is also meant to further develop and strengthen the Just Net Coalition . The workshop is titled*"Equity and Social Justice in a Digital World: An Inter Sectoral/ Movements Dialogue for a Digital Justice Agenda". * Participants will come from (1) organisations that are already engaged with digital issues and (2) traditional civil society groups that have begun to feel the digital impact and pressure on their work, and would like to understand the digital better, from a progressive point of view, and collaborate in developing a global digital justice agenda. With a digital justice agenda we mean working equally on civil and political rights side as on social, economic and cultural rights. A datafied state is a major threat, but so is data discrimination by the private sector and a big corporation driven data economy that further concentrates wealth and power, within and across societies. Social and economic justice is a key part of this effort, which need to be brought to the centre stage of digital activism. This is also attempt to built bridges between digital activism in the geo-political South and North. Participants will mainly be groups that are already engaged in or with the Just Net Coalition in various ways. But we are eager to also include groups and people that we may not yet be in contact or engaged with, but who are eager to work on social and economic justice issues in a digital context. Such a commitment should be central to such groups/ people's work for them to fruitfully work with JNC and its various partners. This email is an outreach to such groups/ people who may want to engage with us with regard to this initiative of Just Net Coalition, and possibly work with us on these important issues. The accent is to work primarily with organisations because the effort is to develop a strong and sustainable civil society constituency in this area. However, we are open to also dialogue with committed individuals with demonstrated work in these areas. As mentioned, this is a strategic get together, and invitation to the meeting is selective, as per various mentioned criteria. But please do not at all hesitate to ping us , ask questions or clarifications. We need a lots of us to work together for social justice in the digital age. We would normally expect any additional participant to be able to self-fund, but in a few select cases we may be able to offer funding support. Since the meeting is not that far off, if you are going to write to us, please do it asap. Best regards parminder IT for Change <http://www.itforchange.net/> ON behalf of Just Net Coalition <https://justnetcoalition.org/>’s Secretariat -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A

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URGENTLY REQUIRED IN KENYA & AFRICA - Increased Public Awareness about advanced Fake News methods and technologies
by Patrick A. M. Maina 30 Jan '19

30 Jan '19

I pray that Government officials on this list will take the AFP article below seriously. The technologies described in the article are real and could be used to radicalize ignorant youth or to spark chaos e.g. during political transition events. These are REAL RISKS I believe that need to be addressed PROACTIVELY - before we get into the election (or even referendum cycle). "A well-timed and thoughtfully scripted deepfake or series of deepfakes could tip an election, spark violence in a city primed for civil unrest, bolster insurgent narratives about an enemy's supposed atrocities, or exacerbate political divisions in a society. With believable fake videos in circulation, people can choose to believe whatever version or narrative that they want, and that's a real concern." - Professors Danielle Citron - University of Maryland and Robert Chesney - University of Texas Scientists are working on technologies to detect deep fakes - but it may not be reliable (or available in Africa). Detection may also not be a practical solution after a video goes viral and leads to chaos. "It's more important to disrupt the process than to analyse the videos. An important way to deal with deepfakes is to INCREASE PUBLIC AWARENESS, making people more skeptical of what used to be considered incontrovertible proof." - Professor Siwei Lyu - State University of New York at Albany TECH BREAK: Misinformation woes could multiply with 'deepfake' | | | | | | | | | | | TECH BREAK: Misinformation woes could multiply with 'deepfake' Deepfake videos are becoming more sophisticated due to advances in artificial intelligence. | | |

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2019 World Press Freedom Day Global Conference, May 1-3, 2019, Addis Ababa Ethiopia.
by Lydia gachungi 29 Jan '19

29 Jan '19

*Dear Listers,* Every year, 3 May is set aside to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom, to evaluate press freedom around the world, to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession. UNESCO also uses the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day, to give the annual UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize, which honours a person, organization or institution that has made an outstanding contribution to the defence and, or promotion of press freedom anywhere in the world, and especially when this has been achieved in the face of danger. Applications currently open and details are available on this link https://en.unesco.org/news/unesco-seeking-nominations-unescoguillermo-cano-… Herewith attached is the concept note for the 2019 World Press Freedom Day Global Conference taking place at the African Union HQ in Addis Ababa from May 1-3, 2019. The concept note is also available on this link https://en.unesco.org/sites/default/files/wpfd2019_concept_note_summary_en.… The 2019 global conference is Jointly organised and by UNESCO, the African Union and the Government of Ethiopia, under the theme *‘Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation’. *This theme is closely interlinked with the objectives of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as well as the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which seeks to promote “an Africa of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law”. In this context, World Press Freedom Day 2019 will address the following sub-themes: 1. How the digital era is affecting electoral communications. 2. New attempts to undermine media’s role in democracy: Discrediting professional journalism, and disrupting Internet access. 3. Media’s potential to contribute to a culture of sustainable peace and democracy Online Registration https://en.unesco.org/news/registrations-now-open-world-press-freedom-day-2… A call for an academic conference can be accessed via this link https://en.unesco.org/news/academic-conference-safety-journalists-call-pape… *Format* The pre-events on May 1, 2019 and the breakout sessions on May 2 and 3, 2019 will be organized by a range of partners from *civil society, intergovernmental organizations and the private sector*. Calls for proposals are now open from potential partners wishing to participate in the event by taking on the role of* organizer of a breakout session.* Please share this information with your networks and should you be interested in partnering in any way, do not hesitate to get in touch with us (see contact details below). *For more information, contact:* UNESCO HQ, Paris Saorla McCabe s.mccabe(a)unesco.org UNESCO Liaison Office to AU and UNECA, Addis Ababa Lydia Gachungi l.gachungi(a)unesco.org

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law to start listing of Kenyans’ DNA
by Grace Bomu 29 Jan '19

29 Jan '19

Listers, The government is now free to collect data on Kenyans’ DNA and physical location of their homes including satellite details during registration of persons. This follows President Uhuru Kenyatta’s approval of amendments to the Registration of Persons Act that has included the two to the list of requirements needed at the national people’s registry. Adults applying for documents such as IDs will be required to provide additional information about their location, including land reference number, plot number or house number. The ministry is also seeking to introduce Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates in the registration of persons, enabling the tracking of their location via satellite. More here <http://The government is now free to collect data on Kenyans’ DNA and physical location of their homes including satellite details during registration of persons. This follows President Uhuru Kenyatta’s approval of amendments to the Registration of Persons Act that has included the two to the list of requirements needed at the national people’s registry. Adults applying for documents such as IDs will be required to provide additional information about their location, including land reference number, plot number or house number. The ministry is also seeking to introduce Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates in the registration of persons, enabling the tracking of their location via satellite.> -- Grace Mutung'u Skype: gracebomu @Bomu PGP ID : 0x33A3450F

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Call for Proposals - 2019 World Press Freedom Day: 'Media for Democracy - Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation' , May 1-3, 2019, African Union, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
by Lydia gachungi 28 Jan '19

28 Jan '19

*Become an Official Partner of World Press Freedom Day!* The 26th edition of the World Press Freedom Day will take place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on *1-3 May 2019 *(Main event: 2-3 May; Pre-events: 1 May). Jointly organized by UNESCO, the African Union Commission, and the Government of Ethiopia under the theme ‘Media for Democracy: Journalism and Elections in Times of Disinformation”, this year’s celebration will focus on the current challenges faced by media in times of elections, combatting disinformation, along with the media’s potential in supporting democracy, peace and reconciliation. Please find here <https://en.unesco.org/sites/default/files/wpfd2019_concept_note_en.pdf> the concept note for the event. As in previous years, the pre-events on 1 May and the breakout sessions on 2-3 May 2019 will be organized by a range of partners from civil society, intergovernmental organizations and the private sector. Calls for proposals are now open from potential partners wishing to participate in the event by taking on the role of* organizer of a breakout session.* *Should you be interested in partnering for the **event in some other form*, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us (see contact details below). *Deadline for Drafts Submission* *5 February 2019* *Submit a 250-word description of the session*, with the proposed title, theme, format, as well as a tentative list of speakers + facilitator. Please note that joint submissions from 2-3 organizations are welcome but one organization should take on overall responsibility and act as focal point for communications with UNESCO. *The benefits of organizing a parallel session, and thus becoming an official partner of WPFD, include: * - Gaining access to an exceptional network of prominent international specialists in the fields of media development, journalism and the safety of journalists. - Being part of the largest celebration of press freedom in the world, which will be a valuable showcase for your organization’s work. - Your logo will be included in all publicity materials for WPFD and on the official event website. - As an official WPFD partner, you will have the possibility to use the 2019 World Press Freedom Day logo for all related activities. *Requirements:* *Proposers are invited to submit proposals for sessions under the following themes:* *1. How the digital era is affecting electoral communications.* *2. New attempts to inhibit media’s role in democracy: Discrediting professional journalism and disrupting Internet access.* *3.Media’s potential to contribute to a culture of sustainable peace and democracy* - UNESCO encourages out-of-the-box ideas and innovative formats (storytelling, team debates, lightning talks, etc.) that ensure interactive and engaging discussions. - In compliance with UNESCO’s policy, *respecting gender balance and diverse geographic representation* in all sessions. - Panel organizers are encouraged to include at least one Ethiopian panelist in each session, and suggestions of relevant Ethiopian panelists will be made by the WPFD Steering Committee. - In order to promote youth engagement, at least one speaker < 30 y.o. will be included in each panel. - For panel sessions, a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 6 speakers is recommended. *Responsibilities:* *The responsibilities of the session organizers include:* - Ensuring the design and planning of the session; - Covering costs of travel, accommodation and other travel related expenses of at least 5-7 participants (including the facilitator and speakers of your session); - Contacting the moderator and speakers to address logistical matters; - Identifying a rapporteur to produce a 1-page report on the session, based on a template to be provided by UNESCO. *We look forward to collaborating with you!* *For more information, contact:* UNESCO HQ Saorla McCabe s.mccabe(a)unesco.org UNESCO LO/Addis Ababa Lydia Gachungi l.gachungi(a)unesco.org <https://www.facebook.com/unesco> <https://twitter.com/unesco> <http://en.unesco.org/wpfd>

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Fwd: Internet governance forecast for 2019
by Barrack Otieno 28 Jan '19

28 Jan '19

Listers, Might be of interest to some. Regards ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: DiploFoundation <webinars(a)diplomacy.edu> Date: Mon, 28 Jan 2019 11:48:22 +0000 Subject: Internet governance forecast for 2019 To: otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com Internet governance forecast for 2019 Is this email not displaying correctly? View this email in your browser (https://mailchi.mp/diplomacy/ig-sept-785761?e=5fdd4b0a0d) https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf… ** Digital policy in September ------------------------------------------------------------ Tuesday, 25th September 11:00 UTC (13:00 CEST) Online | Geneva New rules for preventing the dissemination of terrorist content online were published, as the US Department of Defense unveiled its new cyber strategy. Intense data localisation discussions continued to unfold in India. September was also a busy time for the courts, as the European Court of Human Rights ruled on the UK's mass surveillance programme, while the Court of Justice of the European Union heard arguments on Google's right to be forgotten case. What were the main Internet governance updates in September, and how will they shape future developments? What can we expect in October? Join us for our next monthly briefing, on Tuesday, 25th September, at 11:00 UTC (13:00 CEST), online or in Geneva (WMO Building, 7bis, Av. de la Paix), for the now-customary discussion. Register for the briefing (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) ============================================================ ** (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) ** Like us on Facebook (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) ** (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) ** Follow us on Twitter (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) ** (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) ** Our website (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) ** (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) ** Our network (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) Copyright © 2019 DiploFoundation, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you attended DiploFoundation's course(s). _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ [ ** unsubscribe from this list (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf…) | ** update your subscription preferences (https://diplomacy.us5.list-manage.com/profile?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf3d&i…) | ** forward to a friend (http://us5.forward-to-friend.com/forward?u=89e7299f9fe54eed66d45cf3d&id=ed8…) ] -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A

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Fwd: [Internet Policy] IGF MAG meeting
by Barrack Otieno 28 Jan '19

28 Jan '19

Listers, This is for your attention and action. Best ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Veni Markovski <veni(a)veni.com> Date: Mon, 28 Jan 2019 10:36:46 +0100 Subject: [Internet Policy] IGF MAG meeting To: Chapter Delegates <Chapter-delegates(a)elists.isoc.org>, Internet Policy mailing list <internetpolicy(a)elists.isoc.org> Hi, everyone - and a Happy New Year to all of you! In case you’d like to follow the IGF MAG meeting, which starts today - it’s being webcast and transcribed. Links at the official web site - https://www.intgovforum.org/multilingual/ Please, note: *Online Participants also need to register as an online participant <https://www.intgovforum.org/multilingual/content/igf-2019-first-open-consul…> beforehand, to be able to request the floor.* -- Best regards, Veni Markovski http://www.veni.com pgp: 5BA1366E veni(a)veni.com <http://www.veni.com/> The opinions expressed above are those of the author, not of any organizations, associated with or related to the author in any given way. -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A

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THE SECRET RULES OF THE INTERNET
by Grace Githaiga 27 Jan '19

27 Jan '19

Dear Listers This 2016 article on content moderation on social media platforms provides a historical overview of the development of moderation practices, and how this probably continues to shape the future of free speech. "The details of moderation practices are routinely hidden from public view, siloed within companies and treated as trade secrets when it comes to users and the public. The moderators of these platforms — perched uneasily at the intersection of corporate profits, social responsibility, and human rights — have a powerful impact on free speech, government dissent, the shaping of social norms, user safety, and the meaning of privacy. What flagged content should be removed? Who decides what stays and why? What constitutes newsworthiness? Threat? Harm? When should law enforcement be involved?" Read more on: https://www.theverge.com/2016/4/13/11387934/internet-moderator-history-yout… Best regards -- Grace Githaiga Co-Convenor Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) Twitter:@ggithaiga Tel: 254722701495 Skype: gracegithaiga Alternate email: ggithaiga(a)hotmail.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracegithaiga www.kictanet.or.ke "Change only happens when ordinary people get involved, get engaged and come together to demand it. I am asking you to believe. Not in my ability to bring about change – but in yours"---Barrack Obama.

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Role of social media in fighting corruption
by Mwendwa Kivuva 26 Jan '19

26 Jan '19

In the Anti corruption conference hotelld this week in Nairobi, the role of social media was discussed at length by the Chief Justice, and the President. What caught my tuition was President Uhuru's call for the general public to "use tools of social media to identify, stigmatize, and report all instances of corruption that come to their knowledge". He also acknowledged that Kenya has a very vibrant social media landscape. This is a very interesting observation, and I am wondering what is the role of social media in fighting corruption, and also admissibility of evidence, given that some corrupt people are so brazen, they don't care about stigma. What tools are out there to capture corruption instances as they happen? I know Facebook Live is a very good tool, and it has been used extensively in US by the public who fear police brutality. Regards

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Mentimeter for the National Anti-corruption Conference 2019.
by WANGARI KABIRU 24 Jan '19

24 Jan '19

Mentimeter for the National Anti-corruption Conference 2019. Hosted by Multi-sectoral. Initiative Against Corruption by KEPSA.Nairobi. Visit:www.menti.com 25/01/2019 Codes:Religious Sector: 432413Professional Sector: 186745Government Multi Agency: 634479Women Sector: 634479 May interest to add your views. Be blessed.Regards/Wangari --- Pray God Bless. 2013Wangari circa - "Being of the Light, We are Restored Through Faith in Mind, Body and Spirit; We Manifest The Kingdom of God on Earth".

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Kisumu turns to WhatsApp for better services
by Victor Kapiyo 24 Jan '19

24 Jan '19

Kisumu county is testing a county 'digital assistant' to provide information relating to different functions. I think its a good initiative by the county. See story below. Are there any innovative implementations of such or similar systems being implemented in other counties that listers may be aware of? I think it's a useful start, and they are taking in feedback and suggestions to improve the service. Hopefully, some of you might want to try it out and see what gives. I wouldn't mind having a similar Chatbots for eCitizen or iTax, whose numbers sometimes hardly go through. ____________ This week, the county has been testing an interactive WhatsApp platform that allows residents to get information promptly. All that one needs to do is to send the word “hello” from a WhatsApp account to +254 756 742 421. That message prompts the county digital assistant to release a drop-down menu that asks the user to select a code representing their area of interest. There is a separate code for government ministries, healthcare services, tourists sites, hotels and radio stations. “When you send the word “hello”, it gives you an automated “welcome” response and from there, you can get information on anything,” says Levit Nudi, one of the brains behind the platform. “It is very similar to USSD codes like *100# with the only major difference being that it's running on WhatsApp, which is not a common thing to find anywhere,” he said, adding that future plans include creating codes for information on county jobs, tenders, and other opportunities. https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/corporate/tech/Kisumu-turns-to-WhatsApp… *Victor Kapiyo* Partner | *Lawmark Partners LLP* *Suite No. 8, Centro House, Westlands, Nairobi | **Web: www.lawmark.co.ke <http://www.lawmark.co.ke> * ==================================================== *“Your attitude, not your aptitude, will determine your altitude” Zig Ziglar*

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Fwd: FW: REMINDER: Digital Democracy, Analogue Politics
by Riva Jalipa 23 Jan '19

23 Jan '19

Dear All, You might find this of interest. *From:* Rift Valley Forum <forum(a)riftvalley.net> *Sent:* 21 January 2019 16:48 *Subject:* REMINDER: Digital Democracy, Analogue Politics <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11…> Trouble viewing? View in browser <https://mailchi.mp/c47072f3c764/reminder-digital-democracy-analogue-politic…> <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11…> <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11…> <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11…> <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11…> <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11…> *Book Launch: Digital Democracy, Analogue Politics* 5pm - 7pm・Wednesday 23 January 2019 Rift Valley Institute・Seminar Room Laikipia Road ・Kileleshwa Nairobi REGISTER HERE <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11…> >From the upheavals of recent national elections to the success of the #MyDressMyChoice feminist movement, digital platforms have already had a dramatic impact on political life in Kenya – one of the most electronically advanced countries in Africa. While the impact of the Digital Age on Western politics has been extensively debated, there is still little appreciation of how it has been felt in developing countries such as Kenya, where Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp and other online platforms are increasingly a part of everyday life. On 23 January 2019, the Rift Valley Institute will launch *Digital Democracy, Analogue Politics: How the Internet Era is Transforming Kenya*, a book that presents a unique contribution to the debate on digital democracy. The book explores how traditionally marginalised groups, particularly women and people with disabilities have used digital spaces have allowed Kenyans to build new communities which transcend old ethnic and gender divisions. But the picture is far from wholly positive. Digital Democracy, Analogue Politics explores the drastic efforts being made by elites to contain online activism, as well as how ‘fake news’, a failed digital vote-counting system and the incumbent president's recruitment of Cambridge Analytica contributed to tensions around the 2017 elections. Reframing digital democracy from the African perspective, Nyabola’s ground-breaking work opens up new ways of understanding our current global online era. *Moderator* *TBC* *Speakers* Nanjala Nyabola *Author* *Discussants * Marylin Muthoni Kamuru Patrick Gathara This email was sent to jbraganza(a)taxjusticeafrica.net because it is subscribed to the RVI mailing list. Unsubscribe <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11…> · Update subscription preferences <https://riftvalley.us5.list-manage.com/profile?u=bbe4bf6326e7666108dd11e6f&…> · View in browser <https://mailchi.mp/c47072f3c764/reminder-digital-democracy-analogue-politic…> Rift Valley Institute · PO Box 52771 · GPO 00100 · Nairobi · Kenya *The Rift Valley Institute works in Eastern and Central Africa to bring local knowledge to bear on social, political and economic development.*

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[CofekDigest] #9: Govt Needs to Clarify Secrecy in Procurement and Deployment of NIIMS
by Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek) 23 Jan '19

23 Jan '19

Dear Sir/Madam, 1. Questions on the procurement and integrity of Kenya's identity system: http://www.cofek.co.ke/index.php/news-and-media/2359-questions-on-the-procur ement-and-integrity-of-kenya-s-identity-system 2. PM? Rise and rise of Dr Matiang'i, to Uhuru's key man at the helm: http://www.cofek.co.ke/index.php/news-and-media/2355-defacto-pm-rise-and-ris e-of-dr-matiang-i-to-coordinate-other-cs-es 3. Why decision to hand out firearms to private security guards is a bad idea: http://www.cofek.co.ke/index.php/news-and-media/2353-why-decision-to-hand-ou t-firearms-to-private-security-guards-is-a-bad-idea 4. Case on ownership of gas cylinders to be decided Friday, Jan 18: http://www.cofek.co.ke/index.php/news-and-media/2348-case-on-ownership-of-ga s-cylinders-to-be-decided-friday-jan-18 The 2nd Edition of The Kenya Consumer Summit & Expo will be held on November 20-22, 2019. The theme: "Harmonizing the Big Four Agenda and Consumer Protection". Partnership opportunities for Sponsors, Exhibitors and Speakers are open. Talk to us. Yours faithfully, Pjorn Muriuki Program Officer Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek) - Restoring Consumer Pride & Confidence _______________________________________________ CofekDigest mailing list CofekDigest(a)lists.cofek.co.ke http://mail.cofek.co.ke/mailman/listinfo/cofekdigest_cofek.co.ke Unsubscribe or change your options at %(user_optionsurl)s

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Invitation to innovation ecosystem vigil
by Nekesa Were 23 Jan '19

23 Jan '19

Good morning listers, Resilience is a word that is increasingly used regularly in innovation circles. How do we avoid failure when we’re surprised by events? Following the devastating Riverside Attack, Nairobi and Kenya has refused to fail. We are showing our resilience. Our hearts have been warmed by the support for each other throughout the innovation ecosystem. Many times we feel like competitors, but really we all serve a wider, greater mission; to make our society better today than it was yesterday. We would like to invite the innovation ecosystem to the iHub on Tuesday 22 January from 5.30pm - 7.30pm to meet in person and see how we are all doing, how we can better support each other, what we can learn together from the last week. This is an inclusive event. If you want to come, please come. If you are wondering if you should come, please come. *Please RSVP here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/innovation-ecosystem-vigil-tickets-55071623709 <https://www.eventbrite.com/e/innovation-ecosystem-vigil-tickets-55071623709>* Prior to this, join family and friends of I-DEV's Jason Spindler today, Monday, January 21st, what would have been his 41st birthday, at a place he loved— J’s on Muthangari from 7:30 until late. Also join the Cellulant family at CITAM Valley Road from 10.30am tomorrow, 22nd Tuesday, when they'll have a memorial service for the Six Brave Men. -- Warm Regards, Nekesa Were iHub <http://ihub.co.ke/> Too brief? Here's why. <http://emailcharter.org/> +254.722.625.633

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Fwd: [AfrICANN-discuss] Share Your Input on ICANN's Draft Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2021-2025
by Barrack Otieno 22 Jan '19

22 Jan '19

---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Bob Ochieng <omondibob(a)gmail.com> Date: Mon, 21 Jan 2019 16:22 Subject: [AfrICANN-discuss] Share Your Input on ICANN's Draft Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2021-2025 To: afrICANN Community List <africann(a)afrinic.net> *Dear all* Please click here [icann.org] <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_public-2…> to share your input to help shape the future of ICANN as it sets out long-term strategic objectives that reflect the ICANN mission and vision. The Public Comment will be open until *11 February 2019.* After this public comment period, ICANN org will revise the draft. A strategic planning session is scheduled at ICANN64 in Kobe to further refine the plan. Following ICANN64, the ICANN org will incorporate any last revisions to the draft Strategic Plan. The Board will then finalize and adopt the new FY21 - FY25 Strategic Plan. To learn more about the strategic planning process and to stay up-to-date on progress, please visit the ICANN Strategic Planning page [icann.org] <https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.icann.org_resource…> . Regards Bob. _______________________________________________ AfrICANN mailing list AfrICANN(a)afrinic.net https://lists.afrinic.net/mailman/listinfo/africann

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France fines Google nearly $57 million for first major violation of new European privacy regime
by Alice Munyua 21 Jan '19

21 Jan '19

Enforcement begins! -------------------------------- The outside of the Google offices in New York. (Mike Segar/Reuters) By Tony Romm January 21 at 10:30 AM Google has been fined nearly $57 million by French regulators for violating Europe’s tough new data-privacy rules, marking the first major penalty brought against a U.S. technology giant since the region-wide regulations took effect last year. France’s top data-privacy agency, known as the CNIL, said Monday that Google failed to fully disclose to users how their personal information is collected and what happens to it. Google also did not properly obtain users’ consent for the purpose of showing them personalized ads, the watchdog agency said. French regulators said Google’s business practices had run afoul of Europe's new General Data Protection Regulation. Implemented in 2018, the sweeping privacy rules commonly referred to as GDPR have set a global standard that has forced Google and its tech peers in Silicon Valley to rethink their data-collection practices or risk sky-high fines. The United States lacks a similar, overarching federal consumer privacy law, a deficiency in the eyes of privacy hawks that has elevated Europe as the world’s de facto privacy cop. Despite Google’s changes to its business practices, the CNIL said in a statement that “the infringements observed deprive the users of essential guarantees regarding processing operations that can reveal important parts of their private life since they are based on a huge amount of data, a wide variety of services and almost unlimited possible combinations.” In response, Google said it is “studying the decision to determine our next steps,” adding: “People expect high standards of transparency and control from us. We’re deeply committed to meeting those expectations and the consent requirements of the GDPR. “ French regulators began investigating Google on May 25 -- the day GDPR went into effect -- in response to concerns raised by two groups of privacy activists. They filed additional privacy complaints against Facebook and its subsidiaries, photo-sharing app Instagram and messenger service WhatsApp, in other EU countries. “We are very pleased that for the first time a European data protection authority is using the possibilities of GDPR to punish clear violations of the law," said Max Schrems, the leader of the nonprofit noyb.eu (None of Your Business). "It is important that the authorities make it clear that simply claiming to be complaint is not enough." Under Europe's data privacy law, tech giants including Google must give users a full, clear picture of the data they collect, along with simple, specific tools for users to consent to having their personal information harnessed. In both cases, France said that Google had erred. Full details about what Google does with users' personal information are "excessively disseminated across several documents," according to the CNIL. The lack of transparency is even more jarring to users, the watchdog said, because of the sheer volume of services Google operates -- including its maps service, YouTube and app store. Even though Google users can modify their privacy settings when they create an account, French regulators said it still isn't enough -- partly because the default setting is for Google to display personalized ads to users. Meanwhile, Google requires people who sign up to agree to its terms and conditions in full in order to create their accounts, a form of consent that the CNIL faulted because it requires users to agree to everything -- or not use the service at all. For Google, its fine in France marks only its latest headache in Europe. Regulators throughout the region repeatedly have investigated the search giant for its privacy practices, while EU watchdogs have scrutinized Google on antitrust grounds. In 2018, Google faced a much larger, record $5 billion fine for stifling competitors on Android, its smartphone operating system. https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/europe/france-fines-google-nearly-57-m…

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British duo flees with Safaricom’s Sh120m debt
by S.M. Muraya 21 Jan '19

21 Jan '19

If the private sector is learning, maybe our public sector (for national security reasons) should prioritize engaging firms owned partially or fully by Kenyans who have no where to flee? https://www.businessdailyafrica.com/news/British-duo-flees-with-Safaricoms-… *British duo flees with Safaricom’s Sh120m debt* By GALGALLO FAYO | MONDAY, JANUARY 21, 2019 9:53 SUMMARY - Safaricom is now seeking permission to serve court papers on the elusive company through newspaper adverts. - Iphone Global systems, which has roots in the United Kingdom, is facing a Sh120 million ($1.2 million) claim from Safaricom. - The mobile firm says it has learnt that two of Iphone Global systems directors have filed bankruptcy proceedings in British courts. An international telecommunications firm that owes Safaricom SCOM • 23.40 ▼ 1.27% Sh120 million cannot be traced after folding up its local operations, the mobile phone company has told the court. Safaricom is now seeking permission to serve court papers on the elusive company through newspaper adverts. The mobile firm says it has learnt that two of Iphone Global systems directors have filed bankruptcy proceedings in British courts. The directors, Steven James Moran and Leslie Thompson, who are British nationals, are said to have left Kenya without Safaricom’s knowledge. Attempts to serve the company with court papers have, however, been futile since November after the firm closed its Nairobi office Safaricom and the UK firm, according to documents filed in court, have a relationship that dates back to 2006 when they entered into an agreement of terminating calls into each other’s networks. Iphone Global is licensed to provide voice over internet protocol (VOIP) services. The firm that terminated more calls into the other’s network was supposed to pay the difference, as per the agreement. Safaricom in the suit papers says the firm has defaulted on paying millions in outstanding bills. “Attempts to serve the defendant at its registered office, Ad Life plaza, 4th Floor, suite No 4E, Ring Road Kilimani, have been to naught as the defendant was not in occupation thereof and was said by the Ad Life plaza Manager to have never occupied any offices therein,” Safaricom told the court. The telecommunications firm further says its attempts to locate the company at Iphone Global Systems’ last address, Carbon House, at Westland’s Office Park, was futile as it was informed they were no longer tenants there. High Court Judge James Makau on Thursday allowed Safaricom to inform the company of the pending suit against it by placing an advertisement in a local daily newspaper. Safaricom pleaded with court for speedy determination of its claim to allow it join the bankruptcy proceedings in British courts. The firm further claims that it has traced property belonging to the two directors in the State of Florida, United States of America and that any delay will see the assets disposed, making it difficult for it to recover its claims. Iphone Global signed an agreement with Safaricom to interconnect their systems. The two firms agreed to every month harmonise the bills for calls that had been terminated across the systems, and the company that had placed more cross-network calls was to pay the difference. Iphone Global had always paid its bill on time until early 2017 when it started defaulting, leading to Safaricom terminating the cross network services in March, 2018.

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