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Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken systems??
by Odhiambo Washington 03 Sep '10

03 Sep '10

Last evening I loaded KES 2,300 worth of credit on a Safaricom data line (0720 332211) and sent an sms to 446 to purchase a 300MB bundle. With their br0ken systems (the whole of yesterday) they could not allocate me the bundle immediately, even though they promptly deducted the KES 999. Because I could not get the confirmation of bundle allocation (CS kept telling me to wait for 20, 30, N minutes for the confirmation to come) I decided to just plugin the SIM card and use it, hoping the bundle had been allocated but only the confirmation sms was delayed. I ended up using KES 800 of my balance airtime after they deducted the KES 999 (instead of the bundle!!) and I got to know that only today when I called CS and they gave me the shocking news - you have only KES 500-and-something airtime on that line!! The whole of yesterday their system was broken down. I suffered the same during the day. I loaded 2500 on a different number and sent "activate" to 448 for a 1GB Bundle. I could not get the confirmation after about 10 minutes and called CS, who told me that they were experiencing problems and I should wait for about 2 hours. I had to buy 500 and top up and just use it like that without purchasing a bundle, while waiting for the 2+ hours... Is there a way for redress with Safaricom? They've literally stolen from me, by deducting my KES 999 and not allocating me the bundle "within the required time" (or isn't there something like this?), making me to use my reserved airtime instead! There must be better ways of dealing with this from Safaricom, or any other provider for that matter. It is simply not acceptable, and I do feel that when I buy a commodity (like the bundle) I should get it immediately, unless there is a condition that stipulates that the provider is at liberty to decide when to give it to me. I also believe that it's the obligation of the provider to notify me when they have a problem that would affect the services I buy from them. Safaricom, I want my money back, as small as it is! -- Best regards, Odhiambo WASHINGTON, Nairobi,KE +254733744121/+254722743223 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ "If you have nothing good to say about someone, just shut up!." -- Lucky Dube -- Best regards, Odhiambo WASHINGTON, Nairobi,KE +254733744121/+254722743223 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ "If you have nothing good to say about someone, just shut up!." -- Lucky Dube

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Suggestions for New Ministries Structure
by waudo siganga 02 Sep '10

02 Sep '10

Dear Colleagues, The New Constitution proposes a maximum number of 22 GoK ministries and the private Sector is being asked for suggestions on how the present 42 ministries could be merged to form 22 or less. What suggestions can we have for the ICT domicile? Kind Regards, Waudo

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Fwd: [AfriNIC-announce] AfriNIC-13 Online Registration Open
by Adiel A. Akplogan 02 Sep '10

02 Sep '10

FYI Begin forwarded message: > From: Diane Nuteau <diane(a)afrinic.net> > Date: September 1, 2010 17:33:35 PM GMT+04:00 > To: announce(a)afrinic.net > Cc: AfriNIC Meeting Co-ordination <meeting-coord(a)afrinic.net> > Subject: [AfriNIC-announce] AfriNIC-13 Online Registration Open > > Dear Colleagues, > > We are pleased to announce that the online registration for the > AfriNIC-13 > meeting, which will be held from 20-26 November 2010 in > Johannesburg, is now > open. You can register online up to 15 November 2010 at: > > For first time registration - > http://meeting.afrinic.net/afrinic-13/index.php/register/first-time-registr… > > For returning participants - > http://meeting.afrinic.net/afrinic-13/index.php/register/returning-particip… > > Registration for our meeting is free of charge. > > For more information about the meeting you can visit the meeting web > site at: > > http://meeting.afrinic.net/afrinic-13 > > Information about accommodation and the venue will be posted on the > web site > soon and we will also let you know once it is done. > > Thank you and looking forward seeing you in Johannesburg. > > AfriNIC Meeting Team > _______________________________________________ > announce mailing list > announce(a)afrinic.net > https://lists.afrinic.net/mailman/listinfo.cgi/announce

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Secure ICT 2010 Conference- 7 Days to go!
by Evans Kahuthu 01 Sep '10

01 Sep '10

Dear Listers, Greetings from Secure ICT 2010 Conference committee. It is our pleasure to update you that the provisional agenda for the 2nd annual Information Communication Technology & Network Security Conference is available online at http://secureict.co.ke/agenda.aspx If you have not registered for the conference, its not too late. Simply register online at http://secureict.co.ke/registration.aspx Please remember to bring your business cards for networking with your peers. We look forward to seeing you at The PanAfric Hotel, Nairobi on sept 8-9, 2010. If you have any questions or need clarification, do not hesitate to contact the undersigned. Regards, Evans Kahuthu, Secure ICT 2010 Conference Coordinator, phone: +254-710649304, +254-202188830

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Suggestions for New Ministries Structure
by waudo siganga 01 Sep '10

01 Sep '10

Dear Colleagues, The New Constitution proposes a maximum number of 22 GoK ministries and the private Sector is being asked for suggestions on how the present 42 ministries could be merged to form 22 or less. What suggestions can we have for the ICT domicile? Kind Regards, Waudo

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Suggestions for New Ministries Structure
by waudo siganga 01 Sep '10

01 Sep '10

Dear Colleagues, The New Constitution proposes a maximum number of 22 GoK ministries and the private Sector is being asked for suggestions on how the present 42 ministries could be merged to form 22 or less. What suggestions can we have for the ICT domicile? Kind Regards, Waudo

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Suggestions for New Ministries Structure
by waudo siganga 01 Sep '10

01 Sep '10

Dear Colleagues, The New Constitution proposes a maximum number of 22 GoK ministries and the private Sector is being asked for suggestions on how the present 42 ministries could be merged to form 22 or less. What suggestions can we have for the ICT domicile? Kind Regards, Waudo

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Re: [kictanet] [ke-internetusers] Zain Kenya makes another move
by Wainaina Mungai 30 Aug '10

30 Aug '10

This is a very aggressive and most likely, a huge loss-making move in the short-run. I hope Zain has a well crafted (*sustainable*) longterm strategy. If they are simply 'playing politics' against a 78% market leader (Safaricom), then they will eventually price their way out of the Kenyan market. Kencell losses *>>>* Celtel losses *>>> *Zain losses *>>> *AirTel losses *>>> oblivion (or market leadership)* My opinion is not influenced by my 'Safaricom shareholder/MPESA user' status ;-) Wainaina On Mon, Aug 30, 2010 at 11:43 AM, Alex Gakuru <gakuru(a)gmail.com> wrote: > BY MICHAEL KARANJA > Updated 13 minutes ago > > NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 30 - Mobile telephony operator Zain Kenya has > introduced Sh5 and Sh10 denomination airtime vouchers as it steps up > its efforts to capture the mass market. > > The introduction of the new vouchers is seen as a move to make the > operator more accessible to the low-end market after a change in > strategy following the entry of its new shareholders, Bharti Airtel. > > Zain Kenya Managing Director Rene Meza said the move is aimed at > complementing its recent 50 percent reduction of call charges. > > “We are offering a wide range of scratch card denominations to suit > the needs of all individuals. Access to telecommunication services is > no longer a luxury but an integral part of each Kenyan’s > socio-economic needs,” Mr Meza said. > > .... > > Read more: > http://www.capitalfm.co.ke/business/Kenyabusiness/Zain-Kenya-makes-another-… > Under Creative Commons License: Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives > > _______________________________________________ > ke-internetusers mailing list > ke-internetusers(a)bdix.net > http://www.bdix.net/mailman/listinfo/ke-internetusers >

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Re: [kictanet] [ke-internetusers] Zain Kenya makes another move
by Wainaina Mungai 30 Aug '10

30 Aug '10

I like the comparisons here. Safaricom's success lies in the sustainable BoP focused strategy they rolled-out awhile back; so does Equity's success. Zain's strategy should therefore be a calculated shift from elitist to a BoP focus...not a simple anti-Safaricom or "Vuka" campaign. Wainaina On Mon, Aug 30, 2010 at 2:11 PM, Johnstone Ole Turana < jturana(a)ke.nationmedia.com> wrote: > Economics aside, the ongoing price wars mirrors the yesteryears customer > battle between Equity Bank and the other banks. When Equity entered into > conventional banking, it broke down all the entry barriers- ‘free account’, > no charges for account maintenance (we all can recall the punitive minimum > balance extortion), and banking the mwananchi. Big banks fought this and > gave Equity one year or so-after all banking was high cost, high end game > not for the villages with erratic income. Few years down the road the > others have abandoned the exclusivity banking and embraced the Bottom of the > Pyramid (BoP) customer. > > At least now I know for sure I can call and have a decent chat, cross the > t’s and dot the i’s which is good for my provider. > > > > Cheers > > Ole Turana > > > > *From:* ke-internetusers-bounces(a)bdix.net [mailto: > ke-internetusers-bounces(a)bdix.net] *On Behalf Of *Solomon Mburu Kamau > *Sent:* Monday, August 30, 2010 1:58 PM > *To:* Sam Gatere > *Cc:* ke-users; KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > *Subject:* Re: [kictanet] [ke-internetusers] Zain Kenya makes another move > > > > I always find ot interesting to see people always giving pessimistic views > on an investment. I'm not a shareholder of either Safaricom or Zain, but > find this trend welcome. Zain(Airtel) will make losses in the first round, > but then, let's wait and see what they want to offer to the Kenyan market, > as long as the consumer is the winner. > I don't think the consumer is worried about the losses Zain made, but > he/she wants to communicate using the most affordable pricing in the market. > The rest, to him, are just politics of the corporate world. > > Me thinks > > On 30 August 2010 13:37, Sam Gatere <sam.gatere(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > Moaning about safaricom could be one of the strategies employed here... but > we have to give a little grace to the dominant player where dealing with 15 > million plus clients is no easy task! However it would also be important to > look at the difference in mind set between Western Investors and those from > the East. The former (West) have no problems making 10 bob profit per call > while their counterparts seem not to mind making 50 cents! We also need to > look at this whole price war from a birds eye view before narrowing down to > Kenya. Airtel has 15 networks across the continent while Safaricom is only > in Kenya. Should Airtel make Nairobi their Africa hub (of which I think it > is) they will definitely up their game in by investing more to make their HQ > a profitable one. Possibly We will see this war move on to the Data arena in > not to long. > > > > Sammy. > > > > > > > > On Mon, Aug 30, 2010 at 12:50 PM, Andrea Bohnstedt < > andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com> wrote: > > That's really the key issue, isn't it? They won't make money anytime soon > - there's the low rates, but also the fact that they'll have to invest > heavily in network and systems. Easy to moan about Safcom's customers > service - but they manage 16m clients. I'm curious to see if Zain will grow > their customer service at the same speed to accommodate all those new > subscribers. > > I also suspect that it'll be mostly very very price sensitive people who > will change - again not the clientele that will earn the company much money. > > > In 2008, when Zain had the Vuka tariff (KES8 on and off net, if I remember > correctly), the company made nearly USD90m losses. Last year, USD46m losses. > > > I found Mickael Ghossein's statement that 'the market is in a mess' quite > telling. I suspect in this battle of the elephants, Orange and Yu are in > most peril - which could easily contract the market again where subscribers > have less choice. > > Full disclosure: I'm a client with both big companies. There's only so much > a girl can put into her handbag. > > On 30 August 2010 12:31, Wainaina Mungai <wainaina(a)madeinkenya.org> wrote: > > This is a very aggressive and most likely, a huge loss-making move in the > short-run. I hope Zain has a well crafted (*sustainable*) longterm > strategy. > > > > If they are simply 'playing politics' against a 78% market leader > (Safaricom), then they will eventually price their way out of the Kenyan > market. > > > > Kencell losses *>>>* Celtel losses *>>> *Zain losses *>>> *AirTel losses > *>>> oblivion (or market leadership)* > > > > My opinion is not influenced by my 'Safaricom shareholder/MPESA user' > status ;-) > > > > Wainaina > > On Mon, Aug 30, 2010 at 11:43 AM, Alex Gakuru <gakuru(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > BY MICHAEL KARANJA > Updated 13 minutes ago > > NAIROBI, Kenya, Aug 30 - Mobile telephony operator Zain Kenya has > introduced Sh5 and Sh10 denomination airtime vouchers as it steps up > its efforts to capture the mass market. > > The introduction of the new vouchers is seen as a move to make the > operator more accessible to the low-end market after a change in > strategy following the entry of its new shareholders, Bharti Airtel. > > Zain Kenya Managing Director Rene Meza said the move is aimed at > complementing its recent 50 percent reduction of call charges. > > “We are offering a wide range of scratch card denominations to suit > the needs of all individuals. Access to telecommunication services is > no longer a luxury but an integral part of each Kenyan’s > socio-economic needs,” Mr Meza said. > > .... > > Read more: > http://www.capitalfm.co.ke/business/Kenyabusiness/Zain-Kenya-makes-another-… > Under Creative Commons License: Attribution Non-Commercial No Derivatives > > _______________________________________________ > ke-internetusers mailing list > ke-internetusers(a)bdix.net > http://www.bdix.net/mailman/listinfo/ke-internetusers > > > > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > > > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/andrea.bohnstedt%40rat… > > > > > -- > Andrea Bohnstedt > Publisher > +254 720 960 322 > www.ratio-magazine.com > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: sam.gatere(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/sam.gatere%40gmail.com > > > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: solo.mburu(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/solo.mburu%40gmail.com > > > > > -- > *Solomon Mbũrũ Kamau* > > ***************************************************** > *Man is a gregarious animal and enjoys agreement as cows will graze all > the same way to the side of a hill!* > > AND > > *It is better to die in dignity than in the ignominy of ambiguous > generosity! * > > http://smiley2.wordpress.com > http://mburu.sikika.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*<http://www.nation.co.ke> > *.* > > 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. > > _______________________________________________ > ke-internetusers mailing list > ke-internetusers(a)bdix.net > http://www.bdix.net/mailman/listinfo/ke-internetusers > >

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Innovation Policy
by Barrack Otieno 30 Aug '10

30 Aug '10

Dear Listers, Just wondering, in light of our evolving information society do we have such a policy in place. If so what does it say with regard to ICTs and innovation and who are the key stakeholders? -- Barrack O. Otieno +41767892272 Skype: barrack.otieno

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Searchable List Archives
by Odhiambo Washington 28 Aug '10

28 Aug '10

Hello Members, It is now possible to do a search (using keyword(s)) on ALL the lists hosted by KICTANet. This search facility is not as advanced but serves the purpose. List archives are accessible from a link which appears as a footer on the e-mails you receive from the list (to which you are subscribed), but is typically http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/pipermail/LISTNAME/, e.g. http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/pipermail/kictanet/ Some list archives are restricted to membership only, so you may not access them unless you are a member of that list and has an e-mail address/password combo to access them. -- Best regards, List Administration

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Mobile Innovation Workshop - Nairobi.
by Muchiri Nyaggah 27 Aug '10

27 Aug '10

Hi Listers. On September 4th, 2010, Semacraft is hosting a workshop on 'How to Innovate Mobile Services for the Bottom of the Pyramid'. Facilitated by Niti Bhan from the Aalto University Design Factory (http://aaltodesignfactory.fi <http://aaltodesignfactory.fi/> ), the focus of the workshop will be on equipping participants with the understanding on market segmentation at the bottom of the pyramid (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bottom_of_the_pyramid) and how to innovatively develop services on the mobile platform for this space. You can book your place at http://www.bookwhen.com/semacraft Spread the word and see you there. Kind regards, Muchiri Nyaggah Director @muchiri +254 722 506400 Semacraft.com

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Fwd: [i-network] Zain Kenya Crying Foul at Safaricom
by Barrack Otieno 27 Aug '10

27 Aug '10

Listers I found this discussion interesting, interesting opinions from our brothers across the borders. Kind Regards ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Timothy Kabaza <tkabaza(a)gmail.com> Date: Fri, Aug 27, 2010 at 9:57 AM Subject: [i-network] Zain Kenya Crying Foul at Safaricom To: I-Network Uganda <i-network(a)dgroups.org> Badru, agreed from a purely free and competitive market environment. But it has never happened before anywhere in the world or in any industry? Why? Remember (Prof Micheal) Porter's five forces of competition 1. * Existing competitive rivalry between suppliers* 2. *Threat of new market entrants* 3. * Bargaining power of buyers* 4. * Power of suppliers* 5. * Threat of substitute products (including technology change)* here in our region, the biggest distortion of competition is #4, the power of suppliers (operators), not # 1 because of the oligopolistic/cartel tendencies. Hence my view that the regulators step in to protect the consumers. i am not advocating that the regulators protect the suppliers , NO, but to protect us, the consumers against the power of the suppliers. The last time the market was left to the power of suppliers with a 'self regulating' regime ( at most with minimum regulation), we ended up with the global financial collapse - (we are still suffering from the same and we should expect further failures, bail outs notwithstanding!). Tim On 24 August 2010 14:24, Badru Ntege <ntegeb(a)one2net.co.ug> wrote: > Tim > > There's two schools of thought here in a market environment the best > performer wins and takes the lion share. However it seems that when this > happens we then call for big brother the regulator to come help the none > performers. I think that is a wrong way towards building a sustainable > industry. Those players who cannot handle should seek partners who can help > them build a competitive business as opposed to hoping that the regulator > will always help them out. > > Regards > > Badru > > Sent from my® smartphone > ------------------------------ > *From: * "Timothy Kabaza" <tkabaza(a)gmail.com> > *Date: *24 Aug 2010 11:58:30 +0200 > *To: *I-Network Uganda<i-network(a)dgroups.org> > *ReplyTo: * "I-Network Uganda" <i-network(a)dgroups.org> > *Subject: *[i-network] Zain Kenya Crying Foul at Safaricom > > Precisely! > > Remember what I contributed about interconnection charges and the resultant > tariffs? I am of the view that regulators should take a strong stand in the > interest of the users and pro-actively address the issue of tariffs across > board. Perhaps the EAC Secretariat should include communication tariffs on > the custom union agenda. > > Tim > > On 20 August 2010 06:48, Kiiza Edgar <edgar212516(a)googlemail.com> wrote: > >> ** >> Zain accuses Safaricom of blocking calls >> *In Summary* >> >> *What CCK says on competition* >> >> · Commission says a competition study by PricewaterhouseCoopers will >> enable it identify the dominant companies, their price structure. >> Commission to apply a price cap on off-net tariffs >> >> · It costs Sh0.01 to terminate SMS on mobile and fixed networks but the >> operators charge up to Sh3.50. The lowest is Sh2 per SMS. >> >> A mobile phone company on Thursday sensationally accused its competitor of >> sabotaging its customers’ calls as a business war looms in the industry. >> >> Zain, which cut its calling charges by half on Wednesday, accused >> Safaricom of blocking its subscribers from calling the market leader’s >> numbers. >> >> The accusations came on the day the regulator announced a cut in the >> charges operators levy each other for calls across networks, setting the >> stage for cheaper calls. >> >> Now networks can only charge each other Sh2.21 a minute for calls and >> Sh0.01 for an SMS. Zain has already taken advantage and cut its calling >> rates to Sh3 and SMS to Sh1. >> >> But the company on Thursday said its subscribers were having problems >> making calls to Safaricom, because the bigger company was limiting the >> access of Zain callers into its network. >> >> In a complaint to the Communications Commission of Kenya, Zain claimed >> Safaricom was “abusing dominance” and asked CCK to intervene. >> >> “Our customers are experiencing congestion and call set-up issues when >> they call Safaricom and not when calling Zain. This is purely for the simple >> reason that our main competitor has been delaying the capacity increase >> request from our side to accommodate the incremental traffic coming from us >> after we launched our new offer in the market,” said Zain Kenya managing >> director, Mr Rene Meza. >> >> Safaricom dismissed Zain’s claims and instead accused its competitor of >> poor planning. Chief executive officer Michael Joseph said: “We feel that >> their request to the CCK to declare Safaricom dominant so soon after the >> launch of their new tariff is insincere, particularly as it was the result >> of poor planning on their side.” >> >> He added: “We have always been courteous to Zain, even to the extent of >> accommodating them when they were unable to clear the significant debt that >> they owed us. This notwithstanding, we shall continue to cooperate with them >> as guided by the inter-connect agreement and other industry rules. We invite >> them to engage us within those parameters.” >> >> Mr Joseph said Zain ‘’is fully aware of the procedures that all operators >> must adhere to when seeking to increase their inter-connect traffic >> capacity. Under the agreement the inter-connect pipe belongs to them and >> they should have upgraded it long before yesterday to accommodate their >> changed tariff plan.” >> >> The Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek), welcomed the drop in charges >> but asked CCK to ensure fair play in the sector. ‘‘We do hope that >> competition among service providers shall remain decent, honest and >> objective,’’ Cofek said in a statement signed by programme officer Calvin >> Otieno. >> >> The organisation also asked CCK to tackle the issue of low speeds and high >> charges for internet long after all major fibre optic cables landed in >> Kenya. CCK director-general Charles Njoroge said Zain’s allegations would be >> investigated. >> >> “We shall look into the complaints. We know there could be challenges when >> the traffic is changing patterns and the important thing is to investigate >> and once we have answers we shall be able to take corrective measures to >> ensure whatever is happening is corrected,” he said. >> >> Mr Njoroge, speaking at CCK offices, said as the market opens up there >> will be alignment in terms of efficiency, and operators should co-operate to >> ensure there is access because the interconnection agreements demand they >> facilitate seamless interconnection. >> >> He said CCK had noted the wide difference between what operators charge >> customers to make calls within their networks and to competing networks and >> how this was being used by the large operators to block competition. The big >> companies were creating a “club effect” by using interconnection charges to >> discourage their customers from calling other networks. >> >> “This pricing mindset is offensive to competition as it entrenches tariff >> imbalances in favour of large operators and makes other networks net payers >> to large networks,” he said. Mr Njoroge said the issue of dominance will be >> comprehensively dealt with through a report to be released soon. >> >> He said the interconnection charges could have gone down to Sh0.99 but CCK >> said this would disrupt business plans of the operators. The Sh2.21 had >> factored the return on investment, but added that the benefits must be >> passed to the consumers. >> >> “We need to move to the second step. We have initiated a process, and have >> regulations and once we declare (a company) dominant and it is seen that the >> company is abusing the dominance we shall come in and put a cap to regulate >> the retail (prices),” Mr Njoroge said. >> >> He said they had a competition study by PricewaterhouseCoopers which will >> enable them identify the dominant companies, their price structure and know >> if there is an abuse of the market. He said in order to remedy the >> competition problem at the retail fixed and mobile voice markets, the >> commission intends to apply a price cap on the off-net tariffs >> >> Visit the I-Network website - www.i-network.or.ug Follow I-Network on >> Twitter: http://twitter.com/inetwork The I-Network Dgroup is a platform >> for ICT Knowledge Sharing >> >> ------------------------------ >> >> Visit web site <http://d2.dgroups.org/iicd/i-network/> >> Click here <leave.i-network(a)dgroups.org> to unsubscribe >> The email is intended only for the recipients. The owners of the Dgroups >> cannot be held responsible for the contents of the email message. >> > > > Visit the I-Network website - www.i-network.or.ug Follow I-Network on > Twitter: http://twitter.com/inetwork The I-Network Dgroup is a platform > for ICT Knowledge Sharing > > ------------------------------ > > Visit web site <http://d2.dgroups.org/iicd/i-network/> > Click here <leave.i-network(a)dgroups.org> to unsubscribe > The email is intended only for the recipients. The owners of the Dgroups > cannot be held responsible for the contents of the email message. > > Visit the I-Network website - www.i-network.or.ug Follow I-Network on > Twitter: http://twitter.com/inetwork The I-Network Dgroup is a platform > for ICT Knowledge Sharing > > ------------------------------ > > Visit web site <http://d2.dgroups.org/iicd/i-network/> > Click here <leave.i-network(a)dgroups.org> to unsubscribe > The email is intended only for the recipients. The owners of the Dgroups > cannot be held responsible for the contents of the email message. > Visit the I-Network website - www.i-network.or.ug Follow I-Network on Twitter: http://twitter.com/inetwork The I-Network Dgroup is a platform for ICT Knowledge Sharing ------------------------------ Visit web site <http://d2.dgroups.org/iicd/i-network/> Click here <leave.i-network(a)dgroups.org> to unsubscribe The email is intended only for the recipients. The owners of the Dgroups cannot be held responsible for the contents of the email message. -- Barrack O. Otieno +41767892272 Skype: barrack.otieno

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Re: [kictanet] Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken systems??
by cliff＠acwsp.com 26 Aug '10

26 Aug '10

MJ, May I also draw your attention to my personal experience that the CC could not assist. On june 10th, I sent an sms to a number in China but it bounce back with an error- 'Failled by service'. I had to try 3 times before the sms was sent. Instinctly, I checked my balance coz I had just loaded airtime, I had been charge for all the sms. I checked with the guy on yahoo chat I was sending the sms if he received all the 3 so that I can offer an apology, he confirmed receiving only one. I called CC for a refund, I was told once the sms leaves my phone, its charged whether delivered or not. It happen again on 16th July when sending sms on the same number and the response from CC was the same! Honestly, why should customers be charged for a service never delivered? Kind regards, Cliff > -------- Original Message -------- > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken > systems?? > From: Odhiambo Washington <odhiambo(a)gmail.com> > Date: Thu, August 26, 2010 2:37 am > To: cliff(a)acwsp.com > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > > > > On Thu, Aug 26, 2010 at 10:45 AM, Brian Munyao Longwe wrote: > > > Hi Washington, > > On Thu, Aug 26, 2010 at 10:39 AM, Odhiambo Washington wrote: > > > > > Hi Brian, > > I beg to disagree with your supposition that these are "mundane and rather trivial issues". Safaricom does not sell vegetables at Gikomba, nor Mandazi at Kibera. This is their core business and if anything goes wrong with these, as one Harry Truman, put it decades ago, the buck stops with one, Michael Joseph! > > > > > > PS: MJ - Thank you so much for taking up this issue. > > > > > > > Both you and I have run online service operations - these kind of issues do *not* need the CEO to spend his time on - unless things have deteriorated to abyssmal levels. > > > > Nevertheless his attention is much appreciated. > > > > > I am happy to report that after MJ's intervention, Safaricom has "indemnified" me on the case(s) that I complained about. To be precise, I got refunds for the amounts used "out-of-bundle" when their systems delayed in allocating me the bundles I had purchased. > > > I'd also like to publicly acknowledge their apologies, received from Muthoni Karimi and Jack Siperia. > � > I feel much better now, as a Safaricom customer, because I have been treated right, thanks to MJ. > > > > > -- > Best regards, > Odhiambo WASHINGTON, > Nairobi,KE > +254733744121/+254722743223 > _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ > "If you have nothing good to say about someone, just shut up!." > > � � � � � � � � -- Lucky Dube > > --------------------------------------------------------------------- > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: cliff(a)acwsp.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/cliff%40acwsp.com >

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Re: [kictanet] Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken systems??
by muliaro＠yahoo.com 25 Aug '10

25 Aug '10

It depends on how you define quality. take a system perspective and customer care would be reduced to one of the dimensions of quality. This aside, the point is- CCK has the responsibility of ensuaring that licensed companies like safaricom deliver within the acceptable limits thus protecting consumers. Dr Muliaro Wafula Sent from my Nokia phone -----Original Message----- From: McTim Sent: 25/08/2010 11:02:00 pm To: muliaro(a)yahoo.com Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: Re: [kictanet] Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken systems?? Hi, On Wed, Aug 25, 2010 at 10:18 PM, muliaro(a)yahoo.com <muliaro(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > This is Quality of Service issue. To be precise, this is a customer service issue, not a QoS issue. Most people mistakenly use the term incorrectly. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quality_of_service -- Cheers, McTim "A name indicates what we seek. An address indicates where it is. A route indicates how we get there." Jon Postel

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Re: [kictanet] Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken systems??
by muliaro＠yahoo.com 25 Aug '10

25 Aug '10

This is Quality of Service issue. It is CCK that needs to handle such complains. any body from CCK to take on this issue? Soon CCK will be overwelmed with more ICT actors attempting innovative ways to stay ahead of there competitors at the expense of regulations. Dr Muliaro Wafula Sent from my Nokia phone -----Original Message----- From: ESTHER MUCHIRI Sent: 25/08/2010 4:34:23 pm To: muliaro(a)yahoo.com Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' Subject: Re: [kictanet] Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken systems?? Hmm - is someone from Safaricom looking into these matters? It is really frustrating waiting for the bundles and getting none.. Or being told you have received 300MB and it evaporates in a day or two with limited use! ===================== "The future belongs to those who believe the beauty of their dreams.". -- Eleanor Roosevelt From: kictanet-bounces+emuchiri=andestbites.com(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+emuchiri=andestbites.com@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of Brian Munyao Longwe Sent: Wednesday, August 25, 2010 3:24 PM To: emuchiri(a)andestbites.com Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: Re: [kictanet] Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken systems?? I had similar experience last week with the 500sh bundle - it took almost 12 hours to activate and in the meantime about 400 sh of my airtime was chewed by the off-bundle rate... Brian On Wed, Aug 25, 2010 at 3:08 PM, Harry Karanja <kairo(a)softlaw.co.ke> wrote: Washington, I share your frustration. I experienced the same thing albeit with smaller amounts. When I called CS I was told that it could take up to 48 Hours for the bundle to be loaded, and no they could not refund the airtime. I was forced to purchase more airtime and use the KES. 8 out-of-bundle charges. To date I am not sure whether the bundle was ever allocated. Harry Karanja n Director n SoftLaw Limited n Genius Executive Centre n 15th Floor View Park Towers n Utalii Lane n Nairobi CBD n Tel: +254 20 342 225 From: kictanet-bounces+kairo=softlaw.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+kairo <mailto:kictanet-bounces%2Bkairo> =softlaw.co.ke(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of Odhiambo Washington Sent: Wednesday, August 25, 2010 2:22 PM To: kairo(a)softlaw.co.ke Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: [kictanet] Deteriorating Safaricom or simply broken systems?? Last evening I loaded KES 2,300 worth of credit on a Safaricom data line (0720 332211) and sent an sms to 446 to purchase a 300MB bundle. With their br0ken systems (the whole of yesterday) they could not allocate me the bundle immediately, even though they promptly deducted the KES 999. Because I could not get the confirmation of bundle allocation (CS kept telling me to wait for 20, 30, N minutes for the confirmation to come) I decided to just plugin the SIM card and use it, hoping the bundle had been allocated but only the confirmation sms was delayed. I ended up using KES 800 of my balance airtime after they deducted the KES 999 (instead of the bundle!!) and I got to know that only today when I called CS and they gave me the shocking news - you have only KES 500-and-something airtime on that line!! The whole of yesterday their system was broken down. I suffered the same during the day. I loaded 2500 on a different number and sent "activate" to 448 for a 1GB Bundle. I could not get the confirmation after about 10 minutes and called CS, who told me that they were experiencing problems and I should wait for about 2 hours. I had to buy 500 and top up and just use it like that without purchasing a bundle, while waiting for the 2+ hours... Is there a way for redress with Safaricom? They've literally stolen from me, by deducting my KES 999 and not allocating me the bundle "within the required time" (or isn't there something like this?), making me to use my reserved airtime instead! There must be better ways of dealing with this from Safaricom, or any other provider for that matter. It is simply not acceptable, and I do feel that when I buy a commodity (like the bundle) I should get it immediately, unless there is a condition that stipulates that the provider is at liberty to decide when to give it to me. I also believe that it's the obligation of the provider to notify me when they have a problem that would affect the services I buy from them. Safaricom, I want my money back, as small as it is! -- Best regards, Odhiambo WASHINGTON, Nairobi,KE +254733744121/+254722743223 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ "If you have nothing good to say about someone, just shut up!." -- Lucky Dube -- Best regards, Odhiambo WASHINGTON, Nairobi,KE +254733744121/+254722743223 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ "If you have nothing good to say about someone, just shut up!." -- Lucky Dube _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet This message was sent to: blongwe(a)gmail.com Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/blongwe%40gmail.com -- 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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Africa has 7 of top 10 safest web surfing nations
by Leonard Mware 25 Aug '10

25 Aug '10

Interesting article http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/news/index.cfm?newsid=3236847 For once we can flaunt our 'safety' rating!

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Re: [kictanet] Pondering mobile competition
by Andrea Bohnstedt 25 Aug '10

25 Aug '10

The 'abuse' complaint was silly, I think: Zain's network was congested from day one of their tariff launch. I'm sure, very very sure, that telecoms professionals at both Zain and Bharti are, well, professional enough to anticipate the need to increase network capacity if they launch such an aggressive tariff. You've seen the fun little leaked exchange between Rene Meza and Michael Joseph - Zain approached Safaricom in the evening asking for capacity on the Safaricom-owned link, and Joseph promised to look into this in the morning. The interconnection agreement between both companies states that this protocol can take up to seven days, as far as I understand. http://www.ratio-magazine.com/201008203586/Kenya/News-Analysis-Telecoms-Pri… Either they could have just increased capacity before the launch, or, if they were worried about alerting Safaricom to this, then just suck up and tell customers that the network will be congested for another seven days. So for Zain to come out the next morning and shout about abuse is dishonest and a cheap marketing ploy that I think they really don't need. I'm a happy capitalist. Competition is a good thing, in Kenya as elsewhere. So I'd like them to compete on the strength of their services and concepts, not by overnight accusations of 'abuse'. Mind you, if Zain kill of Orange and Essar, we'll have a bit less competition in terms of numbers, but hey ... :) Happy phone calls, Andrea On 24 August 2010 14:34, Emmanuel Khisa <oloo.khisa(a)googlemail.com> wrote: > Hi Andreas, > > You have spoken for me on this one...I have also wondered since zain/bharti > lodged their complaint with CCK over clogged network, were they just playing > spoilt kid or do they have a valid claim? My opinion is that since they have > experienced an unanticipated rise in subscribers they didnt have the network > infrastructure to support these calls and so quickly blame the rival and > make them look bad. But then again maybe they have a valid case against the > boys in green. > Nonetheless the winner here is the consumer. Shall we safely say that we > have entered the third mobile revolution. > > > > > On Tue, Aug 24, 2010 at 1:56 PM, Andrea Bohnstedt < > andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com> wrote: > >> I'm wondering: >> >> Will CCK strictly enforce the cut-off deadline for unregistered SIM cards >> at the end of August? Are Zain making sure that everyone picking up a new >> line also register them immediately? >> >> If price war is Zain's strategy, will they have enough money left to >> invest in infrastructure and customer service once their subscriber numbers >> go up significantly? Will they be able to scale up both systems quickly >> enough? >> >> Telkom Orange are cited in the media as complaining that the interconnect >> rate also applies to their fixed line service and that this is not even >> covering their costs ( >> http://www.nation.co.ke/business/news/Telkom%20unhappy%20with%20interlink%2…) >> I wonder if the two big ones having it out won't kill the two small ones >> first? >> >> Bharti/Zain have also launched free sms alongside lower on and off-net >> calling rates and free minutes in Nigeria: >> http://telecomyatra.afaqs.com/news/?sid=1652_Bharti+subsidiary+Zain+introdu… >> >> Happy afternoon, >> Andrea >> >> _______________________________________________ >> kictanet mailing list >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> This message was sent to: oloo.khisa(a)gmail.com >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/oloo.khisa%40gmail.com >> >> > -- Andrea Bohnstedt Publisher +254 720 960 322 www.ratio-magazine.com

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Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 39, Issue 42
by ALEX OWITI 25 Aug '10

25 Aug '10

** * * *SAFARICOM UNVEILS NEW POSTPAY RATES* * * *August 24, 2010...*Safaricom’s PostPay customers can now call make calls at a flat rate of Sh3 per minute. This follows the launch of a new tariff plan for this category of subscribers by the country’s leading telecoms operator. The rates will apply for both on and off-net calls and will be applicable throughout. Per second billing applies on this tariff, which takes effect starting August 25 and is targeted at the firm’s PostPay, a key component of its 16 million-strong subscriber base. Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph said the tariff was a way of thanking the firm’s PostPay subscribers for their loyalty and extending to them price concessions similar to what PrePay customers were enjoying. “Our PostPay customers are a huge reason for our success. We thank them for their custom and considerable spending on our network. We promise to remain responsive to their needs and promise them a number of incentives, going forward,” said Mr Joseph. Earlier in the day, Safaricom had announced a value-based PrePay tariff promotion whose main point was a Sh2 per minute calling rate on the purchase of certain air-time denominations, the lowest level in the market currently. *ENDS...* * * *About Safaricom...*Formed at the turn of the decade, Safaricom has firmly established its credentials as a regional leader, spawning a virtual telecoms revolution in Kenya. Safaricom is a total telecoms company. With a subscriber base of over 16 million, Safaricom offers all telecoms services under one roof: mobile and fixed voice and data services on a variety of platforms: Kenya’s widest and only 3G network; a growing fibre optic cable footprint and its most expansive WIMAX presence. For more details please go to: *http://www.safaricom.co.ke/* Alex. ** * * * * * * * *

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Safaricom personalizes mobile service Implements Nokia Siemens Networks’ subscriber data management platform
by ALEX OWITI 25 Aug '10

25 Aug '10

* * *Press Release* *Nairobi**, Kenya** – August 25, 2010* *Safaricom personalizes mobile service*** *Implements Nokia Siemens Networks’ subscriber data management platform * Leading Kenyan telecoms operator Safaricom will soon be able to offer new, personalized services to its subscribers. The operator is deploying Nokia Siemens Networks’ Subscriber Data Management (SDM) platform to pull together subscriber data that currently resides on multiple databases. The platform will allow Safaricom to gain better insight into the needs and likes of its customers and offer targeted services. The deployment is part of Safaricom’s transition to an all-IP network. “We want customers that stay with us because we offer the specific services they love,” said John Barorot, chief technology officer, Safaricom. “Nokia Siemens Networks’ subscriber data management platform helps us understand the needs and demands of our subscribers. This enables us to provide more customized and secure services and that makes for happier customers.” “A central, unified data base allows secure, seamless data management for services and applications,” added Manfred Egger, head of Safaricom customer team, Nokia Siemens Networks. “By bringing together subscriber data, Safaricom will obtain insight into its subscribers’ behavior and be able to offer customized services that meet their varied interests.” Nokia Siemens Networks will supply its subscriber data management solution, including the One-NDS real-time subscriber data repository, to consolidate subscriber data from multiple applications. The consolidation is far more efficient than managing multiple databases for different applications, including Home Location Register (HLR), Home Subscriber Server (HSS) and converged Data Authentication, and provides a converged platform that makes it easier to create and deliver new services. Nokia Siemens Networks will also enhance Safaricom’s network management system to enable better monitoring and optimization of its network.Integration and consulting services will be provided to ensure a smooth implementation. *About Safaricom* Formed at the turn of the decade following the liberalization of Kenya’s telecoms sector as a joint venture between global leader Vodafone of the UK and the government of Kenya, Safaricom has firmly established its credentials as a regional leader, spawning a virtual telecoms revolution in Kenya. Growing from its cradle in mobile voice services, Safaricom is a total telecoms company. The firm, which has a subscriber base of over 16 million, offers all telecoms services under one roof: mobile and fixed voice and data services on a variety of platforms: Kenya’s widest and only 3G network; a growing fibre optic cable footprint and its most expansive WIMAX presence. For more details please go to: http://www.safaricom.co.ke/ About Nokia Siemens Networks Nokia Siemens Networks is a leading global enabler of telecommunications services. With its focus on innovation and sustainability, the company provides a complete portfolio of mobile, fixed and converged network technology, as well as professional services including consultancy and systems integration, deployment, maintenance and managed services. It is one of the largest telecommunications hardware, software and professional services companies in the world. Operating in 150 countries, its headquarters are in Espoo, Finland. www.nokiasiemensnetworks.com Talk about Nokia Siemens Networks’ news at http://blogs.nokiasiemensnetworks.com and find out if your country is exploiting the full potential of connectivity at http://connectivityscorecard.org Media Enquiries Nokia Siemens Networks Nada Chammas Media Relations, Middle East and Africa Phone: +971 4 4460213 e-mail: nada.chammas(a)nsn.com Media Relations Phone: +358 7180 31451 e-mail: mediarelations(a)nsn.com Safaricom Washington Akumu Public Relations & Sponsorship Manager Phone: +254 724 509 033 e-mail: pr(a)safaricom.co.ke Notes to editors: *After the data consolidation, Nokia Siemens Networks will substitute the existing HLRs with new data-less NT-HLR frontends. Further, data-less network applications such as Home Subscriber Server (HSS), Equipment Identification Register (EIR), Mobile Number Portability (server) (MNP) and Authentication, Authorization and Accounting (server) (AAA) will follow soon.

1 0

Thank you all
by robert yawe 25 Aug '10

25 Aug '10

Hi, I finally have 3G connectivity from inside my house in South C thanks to all the rants I posted in the forum, it is good to know that this forum has the right listener ship. Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696

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Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues
by Edith Adera 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

There's need for consumer issues to be taken VERY seriously in the Kenyan Telecommunication market. I believe CCK is listening and this should not be allowed to happen to any Kenyan consumer. As a non-user of money transfer services (I'm a proxy user), I decided to try the Mpesa service today as I did not have a 3rd party proxy to undertake the transaction on my behalf as I usually do. The last I tried to register for the service, I was informed that I had an old generation SIM card and needed to replace it yet the agent did not have the replacement SIMs. I was directed to follow a convoluted process of getting the replacement SIM, which I did not have the time for at that point. Today, I was rudely informed that as a non registered user I cannot send money by Mpesa (Prestige service provider) - never mind that I have a very active Safaricom line. This puzzled me as in the banking sector, you can always bank money into any account at a bank in which you're not a "member". So in search for an answer to this issue, I decided to call a Safaricom Officer (Ms Bernice - department that issues Short Codes) to get some assistance. I called her on my Zain line. As soon as she picked the call, she was very cold and retorted "for starters, you have called me from the wrong network - meaning from Zain - and secondly, you cannot send money if you are not a registered user". My issue as a consumer is - why should I be rebuked for using my Zain line to call Safaricom? Is it a Safaricom policy that no one should call them using a Zain line or lines from other network providers? what does the CCK regulations say about such issues? My little telecommunication background tells me that the "consumer is king" and that a consumer must exercise their "right of choice" in a competitive market. why should I be dictated to what network I MUST USE or NOT use to make calls? Is this a reflection of the interconnection issues that are currently hitting media headlines? I have taken this issue very seriously and demand an apology and response from Safaricom. I believe CCK will take appropriate action to ensure that this is not the modus operandi in the Kenyan telecommunication market. Edith Kenyan Consumer

4 4

A case against CSR
by Harry Hare 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

Dear All, This is a non-IT piece but very thought provoking. Especially interesting for business executives and policy makers. I remember one professor friend who maintains that the only responsibility a corporation has, is to its shareholders. Dr Kamani, the author of this piece is of the same mindset though he argues for regulation as probably the most effective ³protector² of common good. Read on.. http://online.wsj.com/article/NA_WSJ_PUB:SB100014240527487033380045752301126 64504890.html Harry African eDevelopment Resource Centre eDevelopment House : : 604 Limuru Road Old Muthaiga : : P O Box 49475 00100 Nairobi : : Kenya T +254 20 3741646/7 : : C +254 725 650044 Training : : Research: :Consultancy: : Publishing

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Re: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues
by andrea.bohnstedt＠ratio-magazine.com 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

Possibly. I may be dumb. If so, kindly explain it to me again so that I'll understand it. -----Original Message----- From: Edith Adera Sent: 23/08/2010, 22:45 To: Andrea Bohnstedt Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: RE: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues Andrea, You are missing the point! Edith ________________ Edith Ofwona Adera Senior Program Specialist ICT4D Program International Development Research Centre | Centre de recherches pour le développement international Regional Office for Eastern and Southern Africa Tel: +254202713160 | Fax/Téléc: +254202711063 | Skype: edithadera eadera(a)idrc.or.ke<mailto:eadera@idrc.or.ke> | www.idrc.ca<http://www.idrc.ca/> | www.crdi.ca<http://www.crdi.ca/> ________________________________ From: Andrea Bohnstedt [andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com] Sent: 23 August 2010 22:43 To: Edith Adera Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: Re: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues Edith, Why do you find it so surprising that you can't send an M-PESA payment if you don't have an M-PESA account? Can you make Zap payments without having a Zap account? In a bank, you can pay cash into someone's account without having a bank account, but you need to go to that person's bank, and you can't make a bank transfer either without having an account yourself. Also, the need to register before you make any mobile money payments is, as far as I know, a banking sector requirement imposed by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK), the Know Your Customer (KYC) rules to combat money laundering etc. That you need an M-PESA-enabled SIM card is an old story - that's been communicated since the beginning of the service, I think, even if it's of course it's regrettable that the agent you visited didn't have one. Many regards, Andrea On 23 August 2010 22:28, Edith Adera <eadera(a)idrc.or.ke<mailto:eadera@idrc.or.ke>> wrote: There's need for consumer issues to be taken VERY seriously in the Kenyan Telecommunication market. I believe CCK is listening and this should not be allowed to happen to any Kenyan consumer. As a non-user of money transfer services (I'm a proxy user), I decided to try the Mpesa service today as I did not have a 3rd party proxy to undertake the transaction on my behalf as I usually do. The last I tried to register for the service, I was informed that I had an old generation SIM card and needed to replace it yet the agent did not have the replacement SIMs. I was directed to follow a convoluted process of getting the replacement SIM, which I did not have the time for at that point. Today, I was rudely informed that as a non registered user I cannot send money by Mpesa (Prestige service provider) - never mind that I have a very active Safaricom line. This puzzled me as in the banking sector, you can always bank money into any account at a bank in which you're not a "member". So in search for an answer to this issue, I decided to call a Safaricom Officer (Ms Bernice - department that issues Short Codes) to get some assistance. I called her on my Zain line. As soon as she picked the call, she was very cold and retorted "for starters, you have called me from the wrong network - meaning from Zain - and secondly, you cannot send money if you are not a registered user". My issue as a consumer is - why should I be rebuked for using my Zain line to call Safaricom? Is it a Safaricom policy that no one should call them using a Zain line or lines from other network providers? what does the CCK regulations say about such issues? My little telecommunication background tells me that the "consumer is king" and that a consumer must exercise their "right of choice" in a competitive market. why should I be dictated to what network I MUST USE or NOT use to make calls? Is this a reflection of the interconnection issues that are currently hitting media headlines? I have taken this issue very seriously and demand an apology and response from Safaricom. I believe CCK will take appropriate action to ensure that this is not the modus operandi in the Kenyan telecommunication market. Edith Kenyan Consumer _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<mailto:kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet This message was sent to: andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com<mailto:andrea.bohnstedt@ratio-magazine.com> Unsubscribe or change your options at http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/andrea.bohnstedt%40rat… -- Andrea Bohnstedt Publisher +254 720 960 322 www.ratio-magazine.com<http://www.ratio-magazine.com>

7 6

FW: Ghana Leads Internet Speed
by Victor Gathara 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

Interesting, hope the 'price wars' in Kenya extend to data services... Victor ________________________________ GHANA HAS been ranked number one in Africa for internet speed, thanks to Vodafone Ghana's launch of its 4MB speed capacity, which is West Africa's fastest consumer internet cafés' broadband package. Aside being ranked number one in Africa, Ghana has also moved from the 176th position, globally, to 52nd for downloads and 11th for uploads, according to speedtest.net, an independent global broadband speed test analyzer, powered by Ookla the global leader in broadband speed testing and web-based network diagnostic applications. Ookla's test engines and methodologies set the global broadband industry's standards for popularity ease of use and the development of relevant statistical data. Ookla services almost every Internet Service Provider in the world and its solutions are used by thousands of small businesses and Fortune 500 companies such as Cisco, Comcast, Nokia, Reuters, Speakeasy, Time Warner Cable and Vonage. According the speed test records, Vodafone Ghana is also ranked number one in Ghana for Internet Service Provider (ISP). Vodafone's average download, based on tests by its customers is 2.26Mbps which is more than double Vodafone's nearest competitor. The launch of Vodafone's 4MB speed capacity provides customers anywhere in the country with 4-31 times faster home broadband services compared to existing speeds, thus allowing super fast streaming/downloading of movies, internet browsing, video calls and instant music downloads. "The new packages are in line with Vodafone's strategy to deliver high speed broadband services to customers, at the same time, reducing the cost of set up," said Marc Norris, Head of Consumer Fixed, Vodafone Ghana in an interview. In a related development, Vodafone Ghana has launched the most simplified and less complicated roaming rates for its customers travelling outside Ghana. With the new roaming arrangement by Vodafone Ghana, customers will pay a flat rate depending on which zone they travel to without the worry of varying tariffs. Vodafone has divided the world into six zones, each of which has a respective flat tariff for making calls, receiving calls and sending text messages. This arrangement gives customers the confidence of knowing what they are paying for and when. Roaming with Vodafone or partner network (Vodafone World), customers travelling outside Ghana would save up to 90 percent on their call and text message rates <mailto:t-radji@dfid.gov.uk> DFID, the Department for International Development: leading the UK Government's fight against world poverty. Find out more at http://www.dfid.gov.uk.

1 0

AITEC .africa panel
by Brian Munyao Longwe 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

Hi Sean, I would rather if it's someone from the domain name community. I would suggest Michuki Mwangi, former CEO of KENIC and currently ISOC. Or even better the AfTLD chairman Vika, from South Africa. I have cc'd both on this email. Brian On Fri, Aug 20, 2010 at 8:03 PM, Sean Moroney <seanm(a)aitecafrica.com> wrote: > Hi Brian, > > > > Please confirm whether you would like to participate in the Panel > Discussion on this at the East African ICT Summit. The revised programme is > attached > > > > Regards, > > > > Sean Moroney > *Chairman** > **AITEC Africa* > seanm(a)aitecafrica.com > UK Tel: +44(0)1480-880774 > UK Fax: +44(0)1480-880765 > UK Mobile: +44(0)7973-499224 > Kenya Mobile: +254(0)721-845674 > Mozambique Mobile: +258-82-6181618 > Nigeria Mobile: +234(0)802-0571766 > SA Mobile: +27(0)724-577887 > Skype: seanmoroney > www.aitecafrica.com > > *From:* kictanet-bounces+seanm=aitecafrica.com(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke[mailto: > kictanet-bounces+seanm <kictanet-bounces%2Bseanm>=aitecafrica.com@ > lists.kictanet.or.ke] *On Behalf Of *Brian Munyao Longwe > *Sent:* 19 August 2010 12:40 > *To:* seanm(a)aitecafrica.com > > *Cc:* KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > *Subject:* Re: [kictanet] Fwd: information on .africa and the lies > surrounding an individual's push > > > > Walu, > > Your point is noted, however .africa is not just another TLD - it is in the > same realm as .eu i.e. a regional domain that represents multiple > jurisdictions - in the same manner that .eu was granted at the behest of the > EU/EC - subsequent to a process that brought forward the buy-in of major > stakeholder in the EU, including Governments, operators and local internet > community - similarly, Africa needs to have undergone a processs whereby > there is broad buy-in/consensus behind whoever it is that is making the > pitch to ICANN. > > Having said that - I for one, will NEVER support anyone who tries to gain > leverage/support by using lies: > 1) She has never been an ICANN board member - despite repeated brazen > claims to the office > 2) She has never been given a formal (let alone written) endorsement by the > AU > 3) She feels threatened by reputable and legitimate African internet bodies > and went to great lengths to sabotage AfriNIC's proposed Addist meeting by > telling lies to the government and Ethiopia telecoms which prompted them > pulling out 2 months before the meeting. Only to find out after > consultations that they have been fed a bunch of lies and ended up losing > face both at a local and global perspective. > > My two cents, > > Brian > > On Thu, Aug 19, 2010 at 12:25 PM, Njeri < > njeri.rionge(a)igniteconsulting.co.ke> wrote: > > Walu, Finally common sense becomes common sense as we know it. > > > I opted to saying nothing before, will continue to do so. But I needed to > note some sense in the thread and urge people to read in between the lines > closely. > > > > Cross the T's and dot the I's. > > > > Best, > > > Sent from my iPhone > > > > Go to www.igniteconsulting.co.ke follow the button of what's HOT this > month, our workshops Ignite Human Potential for Personal and Organizational > Success. > > > > For your wellness experiencies follow this link www.ignitelifestyle.com > > > > The Ignite Experience Center can host your corporate retreats, business > dinners and private functions. Call Eunice on 254 20 2532142 or 2532144 or > email: events(a)igniteconsulting.co.ke for your consulting bookings and > events(a)ignitelifestyle.com for your bookings on wellness therapies. > > > On Aug 19, 2010, at 11:28 AM, Barrack Otieno <otieno.barrack(a)gmail.com> > wrote: > > Very democratic comments Walu :-) > > On Thu, Aug 19, 2010 at 9:24 AM, Walubengo J <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > > I really dont know who this lady is - other than having seeing her at the > Kenyan IGF where she also pushed for the dot.Africa initiative. Indeed as > Pierre mentions elsewhere, there's a parallel push @ > http://www.dotafrica.org/home.html which I believe has the support of > AfNOG, AfrNIC, AfTLD (the Af* organisations). > > However and I stand to be corrected - I think the ICANN process is quite > open and transparent and we therefore cannot stop any bidder pushing to have > a top level domain like dot.Africa (free for all approach that ofcourse has > had its advantages and disadvantages). > > So whereas I support and understand the need have dot.africa under the > family and philosophy of Af* organisations, we really have no control over > other bidders trying to get there first. Maybe we should just up our game > and get the domain before the competition. > > walu. > disclaimer: comments shared are personal and not the view of the > organisations I am affiliated with. > > > --- On *Wed, 8/18/10, Solomon Mburu Kamau <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com>* wrote: > > > From: Solomon Mburu Kamau <solo.mburu(a)gmail.com> > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Fwd: information on .africa and the lies > surrounding an individual's push > To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> > Date: Wednesday, August 18, 2010, 11:34 PM > > > > @ Njenga, > It's not really about who is onlist or not, but during the just concluded > EAIGF in Uganda one 'iron lady' has been claiming to speak on behalf of AU > and that there are some endorsements made that she presented to this > regional forum, which turned out to be a sham! > > I hope Brian my explanation is right. > > On 18 August 2010 18:24, Njenga Gathecha <njenga.mkenya(a)gmail.com> wrote: > > Hello all. I think the best thing to do is to have all the members listed > somewhere and then in case of doubt, listers can consult the list. This > would ward off cons who may seek to exploit innocents. > > Thanks for pointing this out now. > > On Wed, Aug 18, 2010 at 5:06 PM, Brian Munyao Longwe <blongwe(a)gmail.com> > wrote: > > > > Hi all, > > Just received this. Apparently she has formally been propagating lies about > being on the ICANN board etc.... and even put up counterfiet letters on her > website - this verges on criminal! What is her interest? > > Brian > > ------------------------ > > Brian, > > here is some info for you.. she constructed this whole thing on lies. you > can judge for yourself. I did not want to spam all but I sent this to a few > key people. check this: > > - there is no African Union Authority!!!! do you really believe that the*Chairman of the AU Commission > * will have claimed to write on behalf of a non existent authority and > give her a letter in that sense? so maybe she should explain to people why > she has a 'weird' letter on her website. Check her website and you will see. > > - here is an email that tells you how she lies! she actually took me to the > ombudsman at ICANN in 2007, complaining that I was preventing her from doing > dot africa, copied the whole board at the time --- all her claims were > immediately dismissed when I sent the letters and emails to the ombudsman, > of the same caliber as the below that she had been sending to regional > organisations and bodies. My fault was to have written to all organisations, > as the Regional Liaison, to dismiss her claims of ICANN endorsement of dot > africa and her being on the board. > > - she keeps saying ICANN is endorsing dot africa! how can ICANN endorse a > TLD?? how can ICANN be judge and party???? she is supposed to have been at > the GNSO council and ICANN and understand what she is talking about!!!! she > has been in the ICANN process for the past 5 years and still has no idea how > all this functions. > > I let you judge. The woman does not have her wits together I think. > > Cheers > > *Sophia Bekele <sophiabekele(a)yahoo.com<http://mc/compose?to=sophiabekele@yahoo.com> > >* > > 30/08/2006 01:48 PM > > > > Subject > > Re: > > > > > Hello <name removed>, > > I hope your vacation is going well. As per discussion, I thought I would > convey someof what is on my plate that may be of mutual interest. > > Presently, other than my private projects/business interests, I also serve > on the board of ICANN, the international internet governance organization. > At this stage, I have outlined few projects in addition to an initiative > that could quickly put under incubation. Any or all of these could serve as > a basis for mutual collaboration. > > Generally speaking the projects span ICT, public sector governance, > regional integration, internet governance etc.. > > The priority project I mentioned to UN Undersecretary General was that of > dot.africa (.Africa) which he expressed great interest. Thus, there will be > a need to synergize and align strategies of possible project collaboration. > > > Dot.Africa is an initiative supported by ICANN, that aims at unifying and > consolidating the African Information Society and presence within the > Internet as distinct from other Continental communities. As such, there now > exists dot.EU (.EU), dot.Asia.(.ASIA) and dot.LatinAmerica (.LA) as similar > ongoing initiatives. The present paradigm is to halt Africans > marginalization in this age of globalization. This is actually one of the > goals of NEPAD, which of course is an initiative that is already endorsed b > the UN. There are no prices for guessing what would happen if dot.Africa is > not also initiated and implemented at the same time that other Continental > communities on the net have been put in place. > > To get this of the ground, it appears from the experiences of the others, a > minimum of 13 countries in Africawould have to come on board. The > endorsement for UNECA would of course be helpful. This initiative would > require a proposal to be distributed to the potential participating > countries. UNECA’s help would be crucial in communicating who might wish to > participate. Countries that have already have ongoing National policies > that relate ICT as a strategic tool for National development would be the > primary candidates. Being something that would turn into a Continental > initiative, it is rewarding at best for the UNECA to play an active role in > this initial stage. > > As an African representative on ICANN board, I have taken the initiative to > coordinate and see the successful implementation of the project. I believe > therefore, we should have a meeting to progress this further. I suggest we > meet ASAP to get this moving, as time is of essence to the extent that the > application for the domain name must be submitted before January 2007. > > However due to our travel schedules, we should arrange a teleconference > meeting that is mutually convenient for all within the next two weeks. > > Regards, > Sophia > > > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: njenga.mkenya(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/njenga.mkenya%40gmail.… > > > > > -- > > Quis custodiet ipsos custodes? > > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: solo.mburu(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/solo.mburu%40gmail.com > > > > > -- > *Solomon Mbũrũ Kamau* > > ***************************************************** > *Man is a gregarious animal and enjoys agreement as cows will graze all > the same way to the side of a hill!* > > AND > > *It is better to die in dignity than in the ignominy of ambiguous > generosity! * > > http://smiley2.wordpress.com > http://mburu.sikika.co.ke > > > > > > > > -----Inline Attachment Follows----- > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: jwalu(a)yahoo.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%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 > +41767892272 > Skype: barrack.otieno > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: njeri.rionge(a)igniteconsulting.co.ke > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/njeri.rionge%40ignitec… > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: blongwe(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/blongwe%40gmail.com > > > > > -- > 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 > -- 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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Pondering mobile competition
by Andrea Bohnstedt 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

I'm wondering: Will CCK strictly enforce the cut-off deadline for unregistered SIM cards at the end of August? Are Zain making sure that everyone picking up a new line also register them immediately? If price war is Zain's strategy, will they have enough money left to invest in infrastructure and customer service once their subscriber numbers go up significantly? Will they be able to scale up both systems quickly enough? Telkom Orange are cited in the media as complaining that the interconnect rate also applies to their fixed line service and that this is not even covering their costs ( http://www.nation.co.ke/business/news/Telkom%20unhappy%20with%20interlink%2…) I wonder if the two big ones having it out won't kill the two small ones first? Bharti/Zain have also launched free sms alongside lower on and off-net calling rates and free minutes in Nigeria: http://telecomyatra.afaqs.com/news/?sid=1652_Bharti+subsidiary+Zain+introdu… Happy afternoon, Andrea

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This might be of interest...
by Njeri Rionge 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

Listeners! To those in technical or other areas of key operations within an organization, that would like to enhance their performance management skills related to people /project management and performance evaluation. Go to http://tiny.cc/t9ojc - This workshop will help participants gain total control over their competencies to develop, monitor and manage an effective performance management system that will change the culture of the organization if everything learnt is adhered to; To enable the change management process within the performance management system implementation, John Kotter's methodology and approach will be presented in an interactive and engaging group session amongst other global techniques that have worked successfully. This step by step guide will be the best time and money spent for your personal and organizational benefit. To register go to http://tiny.cc/t9ojc and register online. Should you need further clarification contact the undersigned. -- Njeri Rionge (Ms) Founder & Executive Director http://ke.linkedin.com/pub/njeri-rionge/5/966/760 __________________________________ Skype ID: nrionge Tel: +254 20 253 2144, 253 2142 (Orange Fixed Plus) Tel: +254 722 522136 (Safaricom Mobile) Tel: +254 773 495022 (Orange Mobile) URL: www.igniteconsulting.co.ke P. O. Box 15568 Nairobi 00100, Kenya ======================================= Our events calendar for 2010 can be accessed via http://www.igniteconsulting.co.ke/calendar.html for details on the workshops and training programs click on the highlighted date/event. Your have the option to register or email us for more information. Thank you for choosing to engage with us, we aim to “Ignite Human Potential for Personal & Organizational Success” 2009 Inductee ICT Hall of Fame Kenya ==========================================

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Re: [kictanet] kictanet Digest, Vol 39, Issue 41
by ALEX OWITI 24 Aug '10

24 Aug '10

*PRESS RELEASE* * * *SAFARICOM EXCITES MARKET WITH LOWEST CALL RATES* * * *It is Masaa Time as Firm Launches Value-Based Discounts * *August 24, 2010...*In a move that is likely to excite the local market, Kenya’s leading telecoms operator Safaricom has today unveiled a new tariff promotion that will see its subscribers call from as low as Sh2 per minute. The Sh2 a minute charge represents the cheapest calling rate by any operator in the Kenyan market currently. Under the new scheme called *Masaa* Tariff, customers will be able to make calls within the network at between Sh2-4, depending on the value of their last top-up. Calls to other operators will cost Sh3-5. Subscribers who buy airtime worth Sh100, Sh250, Sh500 or Sh1,000 will be able to make on-net calls at Sh2 a minute, while the off-net rate for these airtime values will be Sh3. On the other hand, airtime worth Sh5 or Sh10 will attract a discounted flat rate of Sh5 both for calls terminating within and outside the Safaricom network. Subscribers who buy airtime worth Sh50 will now pay Sh3 a minute for both on and off-net calls while for the Sh20 denomination, the on-net rate is Sh4, while calls outside the network will cost Sh5 per minute. Per second billing applies on the *Masaa* Tariff, which takes effect starting August 24 to September 23 and is primarily targeted at the firm’s Prepay subscribers. Commenting on the development, Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph said *Masaa*Tariff was a way of thanking the firm’s over 16 million subscribers for their loyalty, in light of new rates guidelines announced by the regulator, and would be the first in a series of such moves as the firm marks 10 years as an authentic Kenyan success story this year. “We thank our customers for enabling us to become a globally-celebrated Kenyan success story in the telecoms world. We shall continue creating true value for our customers by listening to them and coming up with propositions that best answer their needs. We recognize that this has been a great pillar of our leadership,” said Mr Joseph. He promised all Safaricom subscribers a “bagful of pricing and promotional incentives” going forward it seeks to consolidate its leadership in the Kenyan market, while continuously delighting its growing subscriber base. *About Safaricom...*Formed at the turn of the decade, Safaricom has firmly established its credentials as a regional leader, spawning a virtual telecoms revolution in Kenya. Safaricom is a total telecoms company. With a subscriber base of over 16 million, Safaricom offers all telecoms services under one roof: mobile and fixed voice and data services on a variety of platforms: Kenya’s widest and only 3G network; a growing fibre optic cable footprint and its most expansive WIMAX presence. For more details please go to: *http://www.safaricom.co.ke/* * * * ALEX.*

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Re: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues
by Edith Adera 23 Aug '10

23 Aug '10

Muchiri, You're "spot on" w.r.t. your analysis. However, service provision MUST be consumer-centric (non of the providers would have any business without the consumers). We have relegated consumer issues to the back burner for far too long...hence the unfortunate incidences that go unreported. So, yes, indeed CCK has a role to play in protecting the consumer. Infact, one of their core objectives/responsibilities are quote "Protecting consumer rights within the communications environment" - It further states that " "The Commission protects consumers in three ways. The first is through the issuance of licenses that have conditions, which address various aspects of service provision by the licensees. Secondly, the Commission has introduced competition in various market segments in line with the government sector policy. The third way in which the Commission protects consumers is by taking up certain complaints raised by consumers with the licensees with a view to helping both parties reach an amicable solution to the problem raised." Further, consumers have certain rights and obligations. Someof the rights listed include:- • The Right to receive information assistance to assist in use of the services. * The Right to fair treatment without undue discrimination from another consumer We need to bring these regulations to life and take some of these issues very seriously. I must correct that Ms Bernice is NOT a customer service staff, so this is not a trivial matter. It's engrained in the institution it would appear. And must change especially as a dominant player. Edith ________________________________ From: Muchiri Nyaggah [muchiri(a)semacraft.com] Sent: 23 August 2010 22:49 To: Edith Adera Cc: 'KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions' Subject: RE: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues Hi Edith, What a sad and unfortunate experience. Mr Joseph has a rare opportunity. The opportunity to leave a legacy of great customer service and positive brand sentiment in the face of aggressive competition. What Ms Bernice displayed today is an organizational culture (positive in itself) where the staff own the brand to the extent of taking competition personally. That in itself is hard to do. Even harder to do is maintain civility and great service when the public you are dealing with are obviously inclined to the competition. CCK may not have the power to force telcos to be civil so Safaricom doesn’t have to be nice to consumers. Such a culture is obviously counter-productive. A sincere apology would be good business sense but a more sustainable approach would be an internal education campaign to re-align the organisation to its primary objectives so that their staff respond to customers not to the competition. Kind regards, Muchiri Nyaggah Director @muchiri +254 722 506400 Semacraft.com [cid:image001.jpg@01CB4315.55476E70] ________________________________ From: kictanet-bounces+muchiri=semacraft.com(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+muchiri=semacraft.com@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of Edith Adera Sent: 23 August 2010 22:28 To: muchiri(a)semacraft.com Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues Importance: High There's need for consumer issues to be taken VERY seriously in the Kenyan Telecommunication market. I believe CCK is listening and this should not be allowed to happen to any Kenyan consumer. As a non-user of money transfer services (I'm a proxy user), I decided to try the Mpesa service today as I did not have a 3rd party proxy to undertake the transaction on my behalf as I usually do. The last I tried to register for the service, I was informed that I had an old generation SIM card and needed to replace it yet the agent did not have the replacement SIMs. I was directed to follow a convoluted process of getting the replacement SIM, which I did not have the time for at that point. Today, I was rudely informed that as a non registered user I cannot send money by Mpesa (Prestige service provider) - never mind that I have a very active Safaricom line. This puzzled me as in the banking sector, you can always bank money into any account at a bank in which you're not a "member". So in search for an answer to this issue, I decided to call a Safaricom Officer (Ms Bernice - department that issues Short Codes) to get some assistance. I called her on my Zain line. As soon as she picked the call, she was very cold and retorted "for starters, you have called me from the wrong network - meaning from Zain - and secondly, you cannot send money if you are not a registered user". My issue as a consumer is - why should I be rebuked for using my Zain line to call Safaricom? Is it a Safaricom policy that no one should call them using a Zain line or lines from other network providers? what does the CCK regulations say about such issues? My little telecommunication background tells me that the "consumer is king" and that a consumer must exercise their "right of choice" in a competitive market. why should I be dictated to what network I MUST USE or NOT use to make calls? Is this a reflection of the interconnection issues that are currently hitting media headlines? I have taken this issue very seriously and demand an apology and response from Safaricom. I believe CCK will take appropriate action to ensure that this is not the modus operandi in the Kenyan telecommunication market. Edith Kenyan Consumer No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 9.0.851 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/3087 - Release Date: 08/22/10 21:35:00

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Re: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues
by andrea.bohnstedt＠ratio-magazine.com 23 Aug '10

23 Aug '10

No customer should be treated rudely. Obviously - that goes without saying (and applies to all customer relationships, not just telcos). But Edith's email contained different points, including a complaint that she can't send an M-PESA payment without an M-PESA account, and that it involves a set up (which, when you have your ID and the agent has SIM cards, really doesn't take long). -----Original Message----- From: Solomon Mburu Kamau Sent: 23/08/2010, 23:00 To: andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions Subject: Re: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues On 23 August 2010 22:49, andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com < andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com> wrote: > Possibly. I may be dumb. If so, kindly explain it to me again so that I'll > understand it. > I think the point raised by Edith was mostly revolving on the issue of cold customer care when she used a rival company's line to call the CC. The rest, I think are as easy as ABC to understand. I might have not given the whole view of my understanding, but I think it's logically wrong for the CC not to take the call from Edith warmly. After all, wasn't Edith paying for that call? Methinks it's up to the respective companies to instill some form of 'discipline' to their CC staff. I wonder loudly, suppose I went to Safaricom's shop/outlet or even House with a shirt emblazoned: ' Zain, Call A Wonderful World, for only 3 and texts at 1 across all networks in Kenya', and vice versa: 'Niko na Safaricom' will I be shoved off? Just thinking loudly! > -----Original Message----- > From: Edith Adera > Sent: 23/08/2010, 22:45 > To: Andrea Bohnstedt > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: RE: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues > > > Andrea, > > You are missing the point! > > Edith > > > ________________ > Edith Ofwona Adera > Senior Program Specialist > ICT4D Program > International Development Research Centre | Centre de recherches pour le > développement international > Regional Office for Eastern and Southern Africa > Tel: +254202713160 | Fax/Téléc: +254202711063 | Skype: edithadera > eadera(a)idrc.or.ke<mailto:eadera@idrc.or.ke> | www.idrc.ca< > http://www.idrc.ca/> | www.crdi.ca<http://www.crdi.ca/> > ________________________________ > From: Andrea Bohnstedt [andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com] > Sent: 23 August 2010 22:43 > To: Edith Adera > Cc: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions > Subject: Re: [kictanet] Safaricom Attitude - Consumer Issues > > Edith, > > Why do you find it so surprising that you can't send an M-PESA payment if > you don't have an M-PESA account? Can you make Zap payments without having a > Zap account? > > In a bank, you can pay cash into someone's account without having a bank > account, but you need to go to that person's bank, and you can't make a bank > transfer either without having an account yourself. > > Also, the need to register before you make any mobile money payments is, as > far as I know, a banking sector requirement imposed by the Central Bank of > Kenya (CBK), the Know Your Customer (KYC) rules to combat money laundering > etc. > > That you need an M-PESA-enabled SIM card is an old story - that's been > communicated since the beginning of the service, I think, even if it's of > course it's regrettable that the agent you visited didn't have one. > > Many regards, > Andrea > > > On 23 August 2010 22:28, Edith Adera <eadera(a)idrc.or.ke<mailto: > eadera(a)idrc.or.ke>> wrote: > There's need for consumer issues to be taken VERY seriously in the Kenyan > Telecommunication market. I believe CCK is listening and this should not be > allowed to happen to any Kenyan consumer. > > As a non-user of money transfer services (I'm a proxy user), I decided to > try the Mpesa service today as I did not have a 3rd party proxy to undertake > the transaction on my behalf as I usually do. The last I tried to register > for the service, I was informed that I had an old generation SIM card and > needed to replace it yet the agent did not have the replacement SIMs. I was > directed to follow a convoluted process of getting the replacement SIM, > which I did not have the time for at that point. > > Today, I was rudely informed that as a non registered user I cannot send > money by Mpesa (Prestige service provider) - never mind that I have a very > active Safaricom line. This puzzled me as in the banking sector, you can > always bank money into any account at a bank in which you're not a "member". > > So in search for an answer to this issue, I decided to call a Safaricom > Officer (Ms Bernice - department that issues Short Codes) to get some > assistance. I called her on my Zain line. As soon as she picked the call, > she was very cold and retorted "for starters, you have called me from the > wrong network - meaning from Zain - and secondly, you cannot send money if > you are not a registered user". > > My issue as a consumer is - why should I be rebuked for using my Zain line > to call Safaricom? Is it a Safaricom policy that no one should call them > using a Zain line or lines from other network providers? what does the CCK > regulations say about such issues? My little telecommunication background > tells me that the "consumer is king" and that a consumer must exercise their > "right of choice" in a competitive market. why should I be dictated to what > network I MUST USE or NOT use to make calls? Is this a reflection of the > interconnection issues that are currently hitting media headlines? > > I have taken this issue very seriously and demand an apology and response > from Safaricom. I believe CCK will take appropriate action to ensure that > this is not the modus operandi in the Kenyan telecommunication market. > > Edith > Kenyan Consumer > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke<mailto:kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com<mailto: > andrea.bohnstedt(a)ratio-magazine.com> > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/andrea.bohnstedt%40rat… > > > > > -- > Andrea Bohnstedt > Publisher > +254 720 960 322 > www.ratio-magazine.com<http://www.ratio-magazine.com> > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: solo.mburu(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/solo.mburu%40gmail.com > -- *Solomon Mbũrũ Kamau* ***************************************************** *Man is a gregarious animal and enjoys agreement as cows will graze all the same way to the side of a hill!* AND *It is better to die in dignity than in the ignominy of ambiguous generosity! * http://smiley2.wordpress.com http://mburu.sikika.co.ke

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Apple applies for patent to kill Jailbroken devices
by Brian Munyao Longwe 23 Aug '10

23 Aug '10

Interesting read - but would a patent granted in the USA apply across /into other jurisdictions? I foresee a slew of lawsuits against Apple including the possibility of class action if they pursue this matter.... http://bit.ly/bM4Nft Brian -- 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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Ksh 300, Million grant to promote the development of local digital content and, software applications.
by alice 23 Aug '10

23 Aug '10

The Kenya ICT Board is pleased to announce the launch of a Ksh 300 Million grant to promote the development of local digital content and software applications. The process kicked off with a ‘call for proposals’ in today’s Daily Nation newspaper. The main purpose of this grant is to propel the emergent lucrative but yet underexploited local content industry to growth. The grant which targets the local content developers including software developers, film, animation, advertising, publishing, gaming and education professionals and all content creators, will provide the funding required for the development of quality applications relevant to the Kenya government and private sector. Digital content, a major contributor and driver of economic growth in developed countries, can be broadly categorized as content accessed from electronic devices like personal computers, game consoles, mobile phones and digital TV. The internet offers the most common form of distribution of digital content. Digital content can include anything from internet based marketing, gaming, online education content and services. Worldwide, digital content activities are transforming traditional industry structures and business models. Local examples include mobile payment systems like M-Pesa and Pesa Pal and government e-services like online PIN registration. Thus the digital content industry has vast potential as a major contributor to our economy and society through employment creation, capital investment and export earnings, provision of skills and capabilities to traditional as well as new and emerging industry sectors. At the same time it is also significant as a means of expressing Kenya’s unique cultural identity. With over 3.4 million users of the internet in Kenya, research indicates that the importance of the internet outstrips those of several key developed countries. Even so, the latent demand for local content is underlined by the fact that surveys show that lack of local content is the main reason many Kenyans shy away from accessing the internet. On the launch of the grant facility, the CEO, Kenya ICT Board Paul Kukubo, commented, “We are pleased that we are launching this grant at a time that the ICT industry is growing and access to the internet all over the country has vastly improved. The future for content industry is bright. Talent, creativity and skills are key drivers of competitiveness in the content sector and we expect that this grant will enable Kenyans everywhere to develop world class locally relevant content and get this industry to rapidly match the lucrative opportunities for talented content developers in developed nations.” Kenyan content developers have already demonstrated their ability to be innovative, creative and entrepreneurial in their creation of content that is relevant to our people. The increase in locally developed software applications, websites, films and animation has been extraordinary over the past few years. However, despite evidence of commercial potential, it is not currently competitive in attracting funds and investment capital. This content grant will give content creators in the country a chance to demonstrate their talent, in both the artistic, social and business environment and propel investor confidence in the sector in the long term. Speaking at the press conference, the Deputy CEO, Victor Kyalo commented, “It is important that with the landing of the fiber optic cables that we as a country produce local digital content, not just ‘access’ other peoples content. It is very positive that Kenyans embrace and appreciate ICTs, but more important is that there are more Kenyan made e-Products available in the market. We want this grant to motivate the local content creators and software developers to originate, create, and adapt quality content that the country needs .We intend this content grant to be a driver for the long term development of content and recognize that private and public sector need to pool resources to meet the capacity challenges this lucrative sector faces.” The Government attaches high priority to addressing skills shortages because of the threat they pose to productivity and economic growth. To address this, the Kenya ICT Board has a number of initiatives purposed to build skills in the ICT sector. Among these are a Centre of Excellence for the BPO sector, an incubation program for software developers and a software certification standard that will give international accreditation and competitiveness to our local developers. Additionally, the board is creating organic growth within the ICT sector by training entrepreneurs (over 1000 already trained) to run digital villages all over the country. All these coupled with the improved infrastructure, has put Kenya in the forefront of potentially explosive growth in the content and software development sub-sector. About the grant The content grant is divided into two major sections: US$1.5Million for private sector applications and US$2.5M for government applications. The latter will be used to propel the utilization of ICTs to improve government service delivery . The government has in the past few years firmly embraced ICT to become more efficient and responsive in the delivery of its public service - from processing ID cards, driving licenses, registration of companies, revenue collection and currently, the digitization of records at the Ministry of Lands and the judiciary, with more government departments to follow. This is all in line with Kenya’s vision of becoming a globally competitive and prosperous nation with a high quality of life by 2030. The private sector grant of US$1.5M is open to firms and individuals to develop applications that would be of benefit to the general public or improve the delivery of existing private sector services. The first round of grant allocation will award a maximum of US$ 50,000 per firms and US$ 10,000 for individuals. The Kenya ICT Board expects to make at least one call for application per year over the next three years. The content funded by this grant will build capacity within the ICT sector create efficiencies, build social capital, increase utilization of ICTs by local communities and demonstrate to the world, Kenya’s talent for creation of digital content. Key dates Call for proposals: June 2, 2010 Deadline for proposals: July 19, 2010 Successfully grantees announced: 15 August, 2010 Disbursement of grant money: October 2010 http://wanjiku.co.ke/ --------------------------------------

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Fwd: Africa domain?
by Brian Munyao Longwe 19 Aug '10

19 Aug '10

For those concerned, please note that contrary to claims made at the EA IGF last week, Ms. Sophia Bekele does NOT have the endorsement of the AU. Please refer to the attached. Regards, Brian --------------------------------------- Dear Colleagues and Friends, Attached find the letter sent to Ms. Sophia regarding her continuous assertion for DOT-Africa and I think it’s very clear. Moreover, find attached also report & declaration of the last CITMC held from 3-7 August 2010 in Abuja and you can find a clear recommendation about DOT-Africa. Regards * ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- * *Mr. Esam M. Abulkhirat (MSc)* Senior ICT Policy Officer Dep. Human Resources Science & Technology African Union Commission P.O.Box 3243 Addis Ababa, ETHIOPIA Mobile: +251 911 22 70 26 Abulkhirate(a)Africa-Union.Org ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ "All Things Are Difficult Before They Are Easy" ------------------------------ *From:* Brian Munyao Longwe <blongwe(a)gmail.com> *To:* Esam Abulkhirat <aldhina(a)yahoo.com> *Cc:* Dandjinou Pierre <pdandjinou(a)gmail.com>; Cecilia Mamelodi < cmamelodi(a)sadc.int>; Edmund Katiti <EKatiti(a)eafricacommission.org>; Mouhamet Diop <mouhamet(a)gmail.com>; Vika <president(a)aftld.org>; aliebah(a)yahoo.com; TTamrat(a)uneca.org; Adiel A. Akplogan <adiel(a)afrinic.net>; Anne-Rachel Inné < annerachel(a)gmail.com>; alice wanjira <wanjiraalice(a)gmail.com> *Sent:* Wed, August 18, 2010 1:35:39 PM *Subject:* Africa domain? Is it true that AU has consented/endorsed Sophia Bekele's push for this? I know that she is a very controversial figure and has made wild claims of support in the past. Apparently this issue came up last week at the East African IGF in Uganda - she was there and tried to claim legitimacy but ended up being outrightly rejected and received a "dressing up" from most of the delegates there.... http://www.itweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=35837:a… Please comment? Regards, Brian -- 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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Fwd: information on .africa and the lies surrounding an individual's push
by Brian Munyao Longwe 19 Aug '10

19 Aug '10

Hi all, Just received this. Apparently she has formally been propagating lies about being on the ICANN board etc.... and even put up counterfiet letters on her website - this verges on criminal! What is her interest? Brian ------------------------ Brian, here is some info for you.. she constructed this whole thing on lies. you can judge for yourself. I did not want to spam all but I sent this to a few key people. check this: - there is no African Union Authority!!!! do you really believe that the*Chairman of the AU Commission * will have claimed to write on behalf of a non existent authority and give her a letter in that sense? so maybe she should explain to people why she has a 'weird' letter on her website. Check her website and you will see. - here is an email that tells you how she lies! she actually took me to the ombudsman at ICANN in 2007, complaining that I was preventing her from doing dot africa, copied the whole board at the time --- all her claims were immediately dismissed when I sent the letters and emails to the ombudsman, of the same caliber as the below that she had been sending to regional organisations and bodies. My fault was to have written to all organisations, as the Regional Liaison, to dismiss her claims of ICANN endorsement of dot africa and her being on the board. - she keeps saying ICANN is endorsing dot africa! how can ICANN endorse a TLD?? how can ICANN be judge and party???? she is supposed to have been at the GNSO council and ICANN and understand what she is talking about!!!! she has been in the ICANN process for the past 5 years and still has no idea how all this functions. I let you judge. The woman does not have her wits together I think. Cheers *Sophia Bekele <sophiabekele(a)yahoo.com>* 30/08/2006 01:48 PM Subject Re: Hello <name removed>, I hope your vacation is going well. As per discussion, I thought I would convey someof what is on my plate that may be of mutual interest. Presently, other than my private projects/business interests, I also serve on the board of ICANN, the international internet governance organization. At this stage, I have outlined few projects in addition to an initiative that could quickly put under incubation. Any or all of these could serve as a basis for mutual collaboration. Generally speaking the projects span ICT, public sector governance, regional integration, internet governance etc.. The priority project I mentioned to UN Undersecretary General was that of dot.africa (.Africa) which he expressed great interest. Thus, there will be a need to synergize and align strategies of possible project collaboration. Dot.Africa is an initiative supported by ICANN, that aims at unifying and consolidating the African Information Society and presence within the Internet as distinct from other Continental communities. As such, there now exists dot.EU (.EU), dot.Asia.(.ASIA) and dot.LatinAmerica (.LA) as similar ongoing initiatives. The present paradigm is to halt Africans marginalization in this age of globalization. This is actually one of the goals of NEPAD, which of course is an initiative that is already endorsed b the UN. There are no prices for guessing what would happen if dot.Africa is not also initiated and implemented at the same time that other Continental communities on the net have been put in place. To get this of the ground, it appears from the experiences of the others, a minimum of 13 countries in Africawould have to come on board. The endorsement for UNECA would of course be helpful. This initiative would require a proposal to be distributed to the potential participating countries. UNECA’s help would be crucial in communicating who might wish to participate. Countries that have already have ongoing National policies that relate ICT as a strategic tool for National development would be the primary candidates. Being something that would turn into a Continental initiative, it is rewarding at best for the UNECA to play an active role in this initial stage. As an African representative on ICANN board, I have taken the initiative to coordinate and see the successful implementation of the project. I believe therefore, we should have a meeting to progress this further. I suggest we meet ASAP to get this moving, as time is of essence to the extent that the application for the domain name must be submitted before January 2007. However due to our travel schedules, we should arrange a teleconference meeting that is mutually convenient for all within the next two weeks. Regards, Sophia

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The New Kenya - Teachers Online
by Wamuyu Gatheru 18 Aug '10

18 Aug '10

I think we have a reason to celebrate that represents tangible investments made possible by ending our quarrel with each other (i.e new Constitution) The Safaricom-Equity Bank-Microsoft partnership to provide computers to teachers is in my view a landmark event. I hope the teaching material is made available as software already programmed in and not requiring one to be logged on. This should make it accessible without exhorbitant cost that may be beyond the budget of a public school teacher. This is a great product innovation that should help teachers, across the country, emerge digitally and by extention their students. I hope that the civil servants who are still in the dark ages also take advantage of this offer. This accompanied with hopefully sustainable Zain prices illustrate the real gains of investor confidence as a result of stable politics. regards, Wamuyu

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Re: [kictanet] ICDL - I apologise(RESTRICTED ACCESS)
by robert yawe 18 Aug '10

18 Aug '10

Hi Walu, It is good to know that there is a push to resolve this issue. My proposal would be to have the software developed by a private entity which would then do a revenue share with KASNEB whose main resistance is based on a fear of loosing their traditional income streams which is examination fees. Lets look at raising angle funds for anyone who can come up with an online testing software that can equal or even rival the likes of smartforce, ICT-Board does not have the capacity to handle such an undertaking as they are more of a procurement agency. Dr. Ndemo, we seriously need to enforce legislation otherwise all we shall keep loosing our edge as an outsourcing destination. Maybe having the issue of ICT proficiency should be spearheaded by the Ministry of Youth who I believe are now responsible for the village polytechnics. As higher education has dropped the ball on this one. Regards Robert Yawe KAY System Technologies Ltd Phoenix House, 6th Floor P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 Kenya Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696 ________________________________ From: Walubengo J <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> To: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke; Paul Kukubo <pkukubo(a)ict.go.ke>; robert yawe <robertyawe(a)yahoo.co.uk> Sent: Sat, 31 July, 2010 9:50:08 Subject: Fw: ICDL - I apologise(RESTRICTED ACCESS) Ndemo, Paul, Yawe I do sit on a sub-committee of the KASNEB board and for the last 9mths we were tasked to create (replicate) a local version of ICDL. This sub-committee completed its task by way of reviewing the ICDL course outlines with a view to including kenyan contexts. Further the sub-committee recommended the creation (software development) of an electronic testing platform (again along the lines of ICDL) where the exam is booked, administered and marked electronically. Such a software would cost money, software engineering skills and time. But that is NOT the problem since I believe the "skunk-works" can do this type of software if given the money and the time. The biggest challenge has been what I would call (soft-resistance) from the KASNEB full-board in going forward with this project. Whereas the CEO (relatively ICT savvy) wants to go full blast with the project, the (older) members of the Board correctly realise that such an electronic examination system would totally disrupt their existing manual examining model that they have been accustomed to over the last 40yrs that KASNEB has existed...(hence the resistance to change) And so here comes my proposal...get funding from Kenya ICT Board, get software engineers from skunkworks to do the electronic examination system, and get KASNEB to "adopt" this e-system to administer their local "ICDL" type of examinations...this way we knock down the resistance to change barrier from the older KASNEB board members - who may actually embrace the system once they see a workable model.... Furthermore, the electronic examination system would pay for itself within a year from the money thousands of potential students would pay to sit the exam (IAT has 3,000 ICDL candidates per year, MMU has about 400, not counting Computer pride and others, you have a potential market of 5,000 candidates to sit this local exam at even half the price ICDL (ksh3,500) is asking for... any takers? walu. --- On Fri, 7/30/10, bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> wrote: >From: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> >Subject: Re: [kictanet] ICDL - I apologise >To: jwalu(a)yahoo.com >Cc: "KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions" <kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke> >Date: Friday, July 30, 2010, 3:03 PM > > >Robert, >We are still fighting the resistance from the colleges. There must be >some examining body to ensure that the sylabbus is covered and the student >can make good use of the training. Unfortunately, in this country we want >to make money at the expense of our unsuspecting sisters and brothers. > > >Regards > > >Ndemo. > > > > >> Hi, >> >> I would like to apologise to Dr. Ndemo for giving the impression that his >> team >> had not done their homework when they recommended that ICDL be the >> official >> computer proficiency certification. >> >> As is said it is only after you have walked in a man's shoes can you then >> criticise him, I recently looked at a training manual from one of the >> local >> computer colleges that was 10 pages long and covered word, excel, >> powerpoint, >> access, frontpage and IE. The exam for each subject was done after 1 day >> of >> training, in the case of word it included mailmerge. >> >> Each application was covered on less than 2 pages and the entire course >> takes 10 >> days, Dr. Ndemo the sooner you can operationalise the ICDL issue the >> sooner >> students will stop loosing money to quacks and we shall return to the >> point of >> making computer users truly IT proficient. >> >> Regards >> Robert Yawe >> KAY System Technologies Ltd >> Phoenix House, 6th Floor >> P O Box 55806 Nairobi, 00200 >> Kenya >> >> >> Tel: +254722511225, +254202010696 >> >> >> >> >> ---------------------------------------------- >> This message has been scanned for viruses and >> dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >> believed to be clean. >> --------------------------------------------- >> "easy access to the world" >> >> _______________________________________________ >> kictanet mailing list >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> This message was sent to: bitange(a)jambo.co.ke >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/bitange%40jambo.co.ke >> > > > >---------------------------------------------- >This message has been scanned for viruses and >dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is >believed to be clean. >--------------------------------------------- >"easy access to the world" > > >_______________________________________________ >kictanet mailing list >kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > >This message was sent to: jwalu(a)yahoo.com >Unsubscribe or change your options at >http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com >

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Philip Adar
by Okech 18 Aug '10

18 Aug '10

Dear Alice, Please add Philip o. Adar to the kicktanet discuasion list. Philip Adar is the Bid Manager, Business Market department of Telkom Kenya. His email address is philip.adar(a)gmail.com Regards, Okech JMMy blog

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ICTs Strengthening Democratic Governance in Kenya
by Edith Adera 17 Aug '10

17 Aug '10

This position might be of interest http://216.197.119.113/jobman/publish/article_68604.shtml Development of an IT platform to monitor the election process in Kenya ("an eye on 2012) For your information, IDRC is supporting an online platform (still under development) to monitor implementation of agenda 4 - visit www.agendayetu.org<http://www.agendayetu.org> . We have worked with our very own Eng. Rege to launch this. It is our desire that the views expressed will not end up in the cyberworld, but will be synthesized and channelled to the respective agenda 4 institutions and parliament. Eng. Rege will be central in facilitating these linkages. Kenyans must be engaged in shaping our common future. Your suggestions to stimulate and improve the site are welcome! As I said, it's workin progress. Regards Edith ________________ Edith Ofwona Adera Senior Program Specialist ICT4D Program International Development Research Centre | Centre de recherches pour le développement international Regional Office for Eastern and Southern Africa Tel: +254202713160 | Fax/Téléc: +254202711063 | Skype: edithadera eadera(a)idrc.or.ke<mailto:eadera@idrc.or.ke> | www.idrc.ca<http://www.idrc.ca/> | www.crdi.ca<http://www.crdi.ca/> [https://email.idrc.or.ke/owa/attachment.ashx?id=RgAAAAANayfd3%2b2VQYZo%2flc…]

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2 Long-Range Video Camera's Urgently Required for Juba
by Shem Ochuodho 17 Aug '10

17 Aug '10

Friends, A Senior Officer in GoSS urgently requires 2 long-range Video Cameras DV-CAM 19kg, preferably SONY (or is it SONY-ERICSSON these days?). Would anyone have a lead/be interested? If so, kindly revert via private mail to Eng. Chaplain Baranya baranyaa(a)gmail.com or .baranyajelia(a)yahoo.com. Apologies in advance to those whom this may not concern. Thanks and regards, Shem, Juba __._,_.___

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Reminder: Secure ICT 2010 Conference, September 8-9, 2010
by Evans Kahuthu 17 Aug '10

17 Aug '10

Dear Listers, This is a polite email informing you to register and attend the upcoming Information Communication Technology & Network Security Conference (SecureICT 2010 Conference) Date: Sept 8-9, 2010 Venue: PanAfric Hotel Nairobi Don't miss out on the premier Information Communication Technology & Network Security Conference of the year. Check out the conference program online at http://secureict.co.ke/agenda.aspx and register online at http://secureict.co.ke/registration.aspx The conference begins on sept 8, 2010 with great Keynote Speakers. Dr. Bitange Ndemo- Keynote Address Johnny Long -Google Hacking Johnny spent his career breaking into the world?s most secure facilities as a professional hacker. His insight into the threats your clients face is first hand, and his recommendations come from real-world experience attacking and securing hundreds of Fortune 100 and Government networks and facilities. Dr. Matunda Nyanchama -Information Security Metrics Matunda Nyanchama, Ph.D, CISSP has more than 14 years experience in IT and IT security, corporate, management and academia. He is currently a Principal Consultant & Director at Agano Consulting. He has previously worked in many capacities including Delivery Project Executive (DPE) and Senior Program Manager at IBM Global Services with responsibilities for service delivery for outsourced contracts; and National Delivery Manager of security, privacy and identity consulting. For more information, please visit http://secureict.co.ke Regards, Evans Kahuthu Secure ICT 2010 Conference Coordinator, Phone: +254-710649304,+254-202188830 ekahuthu(a)secureict.co.ke<http://emailmg.webhost4life.com/sqmail/images/blank.png>

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1st National eWaste Conference on 7th September, 2010 at UNEP, Gigiri
by Terry 17 Aug '10

17 Aug '10

Dear All; ICWE Africa in conjunction with Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources (MEMR) and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is organizing a one-day National Conference on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE/E-Waste) to be held on Tuesday 7th September 2010 at the UN complex in Gigiri. The conference will also serve as a launching pad for the Ministry of Environment to launch the National e-Waste Guidelines being developed by NEMA and other stakeholders. As a way forward, the conference will also set into motion development of the e-Waste Disposal & Management Regulations formulation. Speakers and participants at the conference will include decision-makers, e-waste experts, and manufacturers of electronic equipments, consumers and information specialists working in international organizations, UN agencies, government ministries, non-governmental organizations and the private sector. The Conference Objectives will be to: a) Identify and map environmental impact of e-waste on Kenya. b) Discuss capacity constraints on disposal of e-waste in Kenya c) Promote multi-stakeholder partnership by involving manufacturers' and private sector in tackling e-waste. d) Recommend policy development framework taking into consideration International best practices e) Identify and discuss positive aspect of e-waste such as job creation. f) Formulate common stand and way forward on e-waste management and disposal in Kenya For more information on the conference please visit: www.ewaste.icwe.co.ke <http://www.ewaste.icwe.co.ke/> . For registration to attend the conference kindly register on: http://ewaste.icwe.co.ke/?page_id=10 . Limited reservations for the conference and confirmation will be on a first-come basis. Looking forward to hearing from you. My regards; Terry Njoroge Accounts Manager ICWE Africa P.O. Box 746-00100, Nairobi, Kenya. <http://www.icwe.co.ke/> www.icwe.co.ke Contacts: 020-234 3961 Cell: 0724 866771

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Jop openings with Hivos in Nairobi
by Alice Munyua 16 Aug '10

16 Aug '10

This might be of interest best alice

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Fw: [i-network] East African Internet Governance Forum-updates
by Walubengo J 16 Aug '10

16 Aug '10

below the updates from the East African Internet Governance Forum in Uganda. walu. Alice: any major\key decisions coming out of the Kampala meeting? --- On Wed, 8/11/10, I-Network Secretariat Eunice Namirembe <namirembe(a)i-network.or.ug> wrote: From: I-Network Secretariat Eunice Namirembe <namirembe(a)i-network.or.ug> Subject: [i-network] East African Internet Governance Forum To: "I-Network Uganda" <i-network(a)dgroups.org> Date: Wednesday, August 11, 2010, 6:38 PM Dear Members, Like most of you may know already, The East African Internet Governance Forum is taking place now. You are invited to follow proceedings on Twitter @EA_IGF, read updates on the blog http://www.eaigf-uganda.blogspot.com/ or follow participants updates on facebook when you search East African Internet Governance Forum and be part of the event. You can also access day one presentations on the EAIGF website using this link http://www.eaigf.or.ke/eaigf/eaigf/2010-eaigf-presentation.html. Kind regards Eunice ________________________ Visit the I-Network website - www.i-network.or.ug Follow I-Network on Twitter: http://twitter.com/inetwork The I-Network Dgroup is a platform for ICT Knowledge Sharing --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Visit [web site]( http://d2.dgroups.org/iicd/i-network/ ) Click [here]( mailto:leave.i-network@dgroups.org ) to unsubscribe The email is intended only for the recipients. The owners of the Dgroups cannot be held responsible for the contents of the email message.

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Introducing PC TECH Magazine
by Albert Mucunguzi 15 Aug '10

15 Aug '10

Dear members, I would like to introduce to you PC Tech, a monthly technology magazine, that is published in Uganda, but now circulated in Rwanda and Kenya. The magazine focuses on features of personal and enterprise technology initiatives, product and software reviews and research on information and communication technologies in Africa. The magazine seeks to tell the African ICT story by documenting and presenting the use of information technologies (ICTs) by private and public institutions/companies in Africa. It also details consumer interests and perspectives on technology in the East African region, and the continent as a whole. Beyond technology adoption and usage, the magazine discusses how private and public businesses/institutions address contemporary business challenges and remain innovative and competitive. In practice, the discussions are aimed at enabling other African business to learn from best practices and creating avenues for collaboration between these businesses. In research the discussions are aimed at offering educators and students sound case studies for learning. On our website (www.pctechmagazine.com) we have downloads of previous issues available, as well as any more information about the magazine and its initiatives. Comments and contributions can be sent through the address, ed(a)pctechmagazine.com. _______________________ Kind Regards, Albert Mucunguzi Executive Director PC Tech Magazine P.O. Box 32180, Tel: +256 712619812 Kampala, Uganda. Email: ed(a)pctechmagazine.com Website: www.pctechmagazine.com

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3rd East African Internet Governance Forum (EAIGF) highlights
by mwende njiraini 14 Aug '10

14 Aug '10

** EAIGF programme Dear all The following are highlights of dicussions that I captured from the just concluded 3rd EAIGF in Kampala, Uganda, which are also available on the following links: - http://www.diplointernetgovernance.org/profiles/blogs/highlights-of-ongoing… - http://www.diplointernetgovernance.org/profiles/blogs/3rd-eaigf-final-day-h… The 3rd East African Internet Governance Forum <http://www.eaigf.or.ke/>that began on 11 th August ended today Friday 13th August. The following are the highlights the issues discussed at the forum. *Session 1: Official Opening* *Session 2: Reports of national IGF process: * - The need to create value and awareness in order to engage the private sector in IG discussion. - United Nations Economic Commission for Africa<http://www.uneca.org/index.htm>(UNECA) reported that: - It would soon be launching a knowledge management platform - It working on evaluating Africa’s participation in the WSIS and IGF process as well as seeking to establish Africa’s position in light of discussions on the continuation of the IGF. - Developing indicators on the implementation of cybersecurity in ICT policies *Session 3: Cyber Security Management: * - The forum acknowledged that cybersecurity threats were on the rise as a result of increased usage and access to broadband. - The need for collaboration in establishment of harmonized cybersecurity policies, legislation and management frameworks specifically the creation of Computer Incident Response Teams (CIRT) was recognized. *Session 4: Strengthening Critical Internet Resources: * - An appreciation of different ccTLD management and governance structures in each country as these structures were factors determined by the local context/circumstances - ccTLDs faced stiff competition from gTLDs hence the need to “strengthening of ccTLDs” in terms of technical excellence, governance and policy structures, quality of service and price, marketing and branding - The pricing of ccTLD was determined by numbers (critical mass=reduction in prices), nature of operation, need for sustainability and perception of the value of ccTLD - A proposal to set up a working group to discuss the viability/business model of DOT EAC (.eac) was considered taking note of the proposed EAIGF programmeICANN new gTLD draft applicant guidebook<http://www.icann.org/en/topics/new-gtlds/dag-en.htm>and proposedprocess which were lengthy, complex and expensive. *Session 5: IPv6 Challenge* - Africa for historical reasons (late adopters, relatively new RIR) has not exhausted its IPv4 address block. Another factor of the relatively low utilization of IPv4 has been the current network design employed by ISPs and network operators. EAIGF programmeAfriNIC <http://www.afrinic.net/> has therefore launched of the ‘No-NAT’ project - IPv6 presents Africa with an opportunity to engage on the same footing as the rest of the world particularly in light of the growth of the mobile sector by starting the transition to IPv6 early/now! - The need to create awareness, training and development of a transition strategy was identified. *Session 6: Access and affordability to Broadband* - Acknowledgement of the important of establishing redundancy and resilience of the national, trans-national and submarine fibre optic networks - Proposal to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea(UNCLOS)<http://www.un.org/Depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/unclos_e.pdf>to guarantee connection and transit to submarine cables for land-locked countries in the East African region. - Recognition of the need for a regional IXP through harmonization of regulatory frameworks (licensing requirements and interconnection guidelines) to facilitate cross-border network operators. *Session 7: Emerging issues* - Creation of viable framework for ICT skills enhancement. This would include regional mutual recognition of IT certification to foster acquisition of internationally compatible and competitive skills to take advantage of the regional integration and globalization. - Recognizing that the youth form over 50% of the population in East Africa, to forum recognized the need to support youth in ICT entrepreneurship and facilitate their engagement in the Internet-governance related policy making processes. - Emphasis to strengthen existing ccTLDs in light of other gTLD initiatives in the continent including the Dot Africa initiative. The dot Africa was presented as a compliment rather than a competitor to existing ccTLDs. - Code of Good Practice and its application to Internet Governance guidelines was presented. The aim of the code is to improve information, participation, transparency and inclusive engagement of IG-related entities in their arrangements and practices. *Session 8: Way Forward* Some of resolutions of the forum are paraphrased below: 1. Formation of a working group to develop strategies to strengthen ccTLDs in the region in light of competition for gTLDs and determine the business case for the .eac domain. 2. Registration of the EAIGF domain name (.ug .tz .rw .bi) all pointing to www.eaigf.or.ke 3. East African countries ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea<http://www.un.org/Depts/los/convention_agreements/texts/unclos/unclos_e.pdf>(UNCLOS). Relevant sections of the Convention in view of submarine cables include Part VI; Article 79 and Part VII; Article 87(c) and Article 112. 4. EAIGF host a knowledge management repository for that IG-relevant information from national and regional organisations in particular East African Communications Organization (EACO) 5. Support of the creation of a regional exchange point and [*taking into cognizance the local context develop harmonized IPv6 transition strategies *] 6. Adoption of unified strategies in initiatives including youth initiatives, mutual recognition IT skills certification, new gTLDs, among others. 7. Utilize the Code of practice as a tool for achieving balanced participation and carry forward IG-related resolutions of and recommendations from organisation and country in the region. 8. 4th EAIGF to be hosted in Rwanda and a call for support for the Kenya’s bid to host the UN-IGF in 2011 in the event that the UN-IGF’s mandate is extended. Kind regards Mwende (Ps: I was unfortunately unable to twit) *Disclaimer: Views expressed here (except those reported, quoted or referenced) are the author’s own* On Fri, Aug 13, 2010 at 2:46 PM, Grace Bomu <nmutungu(a)gmail.com> wrote: > Thanks Walu, > yesterday I was just asking someone whether there is some way to > participate remotely. This helps. > Who is in the Kenyan delegation? Perhaps we can follow their tweets for > more customised info or info of particular interest to Kenyan youth. > best! > > > rgds, > Grace > > On 13 August 2010 10:17, Walubengo J <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > >> below the updates from the East African Internet Governance Forum in >> Uganda. >> >> walu. >> Alice: any major\key decisions coming out of the Kampala meeting? >> --- On *Wed, 8/11/10, I-Network Secretariat Eunice Namirembe < >> namirembe(a)i-network.or.ug>* wrote: >> >> >> From: I-Network Secretariat Eunice Namirembe <namirembe(a)i-network.or.ug> >> Subject: [i-network] East African Internet Governance Forum >> To: "I-Network Uganda" <i-network(a)dgroups.org> >> Date: Wednesday, August 11, 2010, 6:38 PM >> >> Dear Members, >> >> Like most of you may know already, The East African Internet Governance >> Forum is taking place now. You are invited to follow proceedings on Twitter >> @EA_IGF, read updates on the blog http://www.eaigf-uganda.blogspot.com/or follow participants updates on facebook when you search East African >> Internet Governance Forum and be part of the event. >> >> You can also access day one presentations on the EAIGF website using this >> link http://www.eaigf.or.ke/eaigf/eaigf/2010-eaigf-presentation.html. >> >> Kind regards >> >> Eunice >> >> >> ________________________ >> Visit the I-Network website - www.i-network.or.ug >> Follow I-Network on Twitter: http://twitter.com/inetwork >> The I-Network Dgroup is a platform for ICT Knowledge Sharing >> >> >> >> --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- >> Visit [web site]( http://d2.dgroups.org/iicd/i-network/ ) Click [here]( >> mailto:leave.i-network@dgroups.org<http://mc/compose?to=leave.i-network@dgroups.org>) to unsubscribe The email is intended only for the recipients. The owners >> of the Dgroups cannot be held responsible for the contents of the email >> message. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> kictanet mailing list >> kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet >> >> This message was sent to: nmutungu(a)gmail.com >> Unsubscribe or change your options at >> http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/nmutungu%40gmail.com >> >> > > > -- > Grace L.N. Mutung'u (Bomu) > Kenya > > > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)lists.kictanet.or.ke > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > This message was sent to: mwende.njiraini(a)gmail.com > Unsubscribe or change your options at > http://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/mwende.njiraini%40gmai… > >

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Fwd: Seeking Expressions of Interest for WITSA Global Impact Study by August 31, 2010
by waudo siganga 13 Aug '10

13 Aug '10

Dear Kictanet Colleagues - I am requested to circulate the information below to potenetially interested colleagues. Kind Regards, Waudo ----- Original message ----- From: "Anders Halvorsen" <ahalvorsen(a)witsa.org> To: "Jim Poisant" <jpoisant(a)witsa.org> Date: Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:57:56 -0400 Subject: Seeking Expressions of Interest for WITSA Global Impact Study by August 31, 2010 August 12, 2010 TO: Members of the World Information Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) FR: Anders Halvorsen, Director of Public Policy RE: Seeking Expressions of Interest for WITSA Global Impact Study by August 31, 2010 _________________________________________________________________ ___________ Dear Colleagues, As you may recall from our meetings in Amsterdam in May, WITSA is initiating a major study of the impact of ICT. This request for expressions of interest (EOI) sets out the specifications and output requirements for the study, to undertake the study from qualified research organizations and institutions including but not limited to: colleges, universities, nongovernmental organizations, consortium, foundations, and corporations. Subsequently from short-listed organizations, a Request for Proposal (RFP) will then be issued seeking a more detailed response. We would greatly appreciate your assistance in sending this EOI to any interested parties among your memberships and beyond. Responses must reach the WITSA Secretary General at [1]jpoisant(a)witsa.org not later than close of business on Tuesday, August 31, 2010. Please find the details of the EOI at [2]http://www.witsa.org/v2/request/EOI.htm. The completed study output will be publicly accessible via the WITSA web site (www.witsa.org) and comprise a range of media (the ICT Impact portal) setting out both theoretical and evidence-based impacts of ICT. These impacts will initially focus on the economic as well as social and cultural impacts. WITSA is keen for the ICT Impact portal to comprise analyses with resilient, dynamic links to key indicators, so that it maintains currency and relevance to users over time. For more information, please contact WITSA Public Policy Advisor Tim Conway at [3]tim(a)witsa.org. Again, we appreciate your help in circulating this information to potentially interested parties. Best regards, Anders Anders Halvorsen Director of Public Policy World Information Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) witsa_newlogo WITSA 8300 Boone Boulevard Suite 450 Vienna, VA 22182 United States of America Tel: +1 571 633-0620 Fax: +1 703 893-1269 Mobile: +1 571 265-5964 Email: [4]ahalvorsen(a)witsa.org URL: [5]www.witsa.org The contents of this electronic mail are solely intended for the person(s) or organisation to whom it was addressed. It may contain privileged and confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient(s), you are not permitted to copy, distribute or take any action in reference to its contents. If you have received this electronic mail in error please notify the sender and copy the message to [6]webmaster(a)witsa.org. Thank you. Best regards, Anders References 1. mailto:jpoisant@witsa.org 2. http://www.witsa.org/v2/request/EOI.htm 3. mailto:tim@witsa.org 4. mailto:ahalvorsen@witsa.org 5. http://www.witsa.org/ 6. mailto:webmaster@witsa.org

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Modern Engagement
by Dorcas Muthoni 11 Aug '10

11 Aug '10

Interesting from Martha: http://www.facebook.com/MarthaKarua http://twitter.com/Martha_W_Karua -- Muthoni My Blog: http://rugongo.blogspot.com/ -------------------------------------------- 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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copyright infringment / theft vs local content value
by Badru Ntege 11 Aug '10

11 Aug '10

Hi All I'm posting this on both I-network (UG) and Kictanet (KE) to continue and expand dialogue that has been going on within the Linux User group mailing list in UG. A few weeks ago I shared a website that we have been working on as an experiment on local content. This website presents an archive of broadcast content from about 16 local radio stations going back to the beginning of 2010. http://www.yradio.ug/ I firmly believe that Africa's local content will be mainly multi-media as opposed to the written word. This goes back to our heritage where our history has been mainly through story telling passed down from generation to generation as opposed to our European cousins, where the written word goes back for many generations. However the multimedia might fly in the face of what I call historical IPR and Copyright legislation. I do believe that this legislation needs to be reviewed in favour of the current times where the traditional methods are unenforceable. On the international scene African nations are being forced to adopt some of this legislation which I do believe will stifle innovation and growth. For Kenya I understand that Kenya Music Copy Right Association has been in place and collects from those who play music from local artists. I would like us to look at what has happened to that industry in the last few years since this was put in force. In the late 90's early 2000's Kenya local music was dominant in the region. However the industry has not grown as it should have and has been overtaken by other markets like Uganda where strict enforcement does not exist and the most frequently played music is local ugandan music. Some have said that what yradio is doing is theft. I would like to here more views on this and also on the notion that our future content for the continent will mainly be Multi-media. Regards Badru

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Streaming - African Peering and Interconnection Forum (AfPIF)
by Michuki Mwangi 11 Aug '10

11 Aug '10

<apologies for cross posting> Dear Colleagues, There will be a live audio stream of the inaugural African Peering and Interconnection Forum (AfPIF) event from the 11- 12th August 2010 provided in http-streamed mp3 audio. In addition, an IM & conference server will be available for remote users to post comments and/or queries. ================================= Streaming and Conference Service ================================= Live Audio Stream ================== The live audio stream can be accessed via the following URL': http://wavu.kixp.or.ke:8001/afpif (Most platforms should have a client immediately available - win media player, quicktime, real player, winamp, vlc, mplayer,zinf etc..) capable of playing back the stream. IM conference Service and Email ================================ (a) Those with jabber clients can join the AfPIF conference room, afpif(a)conference.isoc.org. A list of jabber clients can be found at http://www.jabber.org/software/clients.shtml (b) Those without can send their comments and/or queries to mwangi(a)isoc.org, karen(a)isoc.org and morris(a)isoc.org

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