- KICTANet - KICTANet

Re: [Kictanet] Broadband over power
by m 22 Jan '07

22 Jan '07

Is KPLC aware of it's potential of being a leading internet access provider using it's national grid of powerlines with this technology-broadband over power? -----Original Message----- From: kictanet-bounces+emutua=ngocouncil.org(a)kictanet.or.ke [mailto:kictanet-bounces+emutua=ngocouncil.org@kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of kictanet-request(a)kictanet.or.ke Sent: Sunday, January 21, 2007 12:00 PM To: mutua Subject: kictanet Digest, Vol 23, Issue 19 Send kictanet mailing list submissions to kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet or, via email, send a message with subject or body 'help' to kictanet-request(a)kictanet.or.ke You can reach the person managing the list at kictanet-owner(a)kictanet.or.ke When replying, please edit your Subject line so it is more specific than "Re: Contents of kictanet digest..." Today's Topics: 1. Re: Consumers Again Left Out (alice(a)apc.org) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Message: 1 Date: Sat, 20 Jan 2007 15:40:57 +0300 From: <alice(a)apc.org> Subject: Re: [Kictanet] Consumers Again Left Out To: "Kenya ICT Policy - kictanet" <kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke> Message-ID: <00cb01c73c90$3d6ba350$adb3fea9@AliceViaio> Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1"; reply-type=original Dear Alex Greetings. The invitation that was sent out to the KICTAnet mailing list was addressed to ALL stakeholders. Our assumption is that if you are still on the mailing list you should have received it. best regards alice ----- Original Message ----- From: <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> To: <alice(a)apc.org> Sent: Saturday, January 20, 2007 9:38 AM Subject: [Kictanet] Consumers Again Left Out > > > Dear Alex, > It is not our intention to leave out anyone in all our functions. If you > read the materials I sent out carefully, everybody was invited including > media whom we presume will pass the message to Kenyans. The invitations > were done jointly with the World Bank. > > I need addresses of consumer groups such that in future we do not make > such errors. I also trust that you could help in such occassions to point > out those who have not been invited. I was certain that you will have > access to the invitation being a member of kictanet and buy extension you > should have sent the same mail to as many consumers as possible. I always > have an open door policy and with that you should have pointed this to > either me or the World Bank. > > Nevertheless, we still have time to invite everybody. Thank you and I > hope to see you at the meeting. > > > Regards > > > Ndemo. > > > > > > ---------------------------------------------- > 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)kictanet.or.ke > http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > Please unsubscribe or change your options at > http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/alice%40apc.org ------------------------------ _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet End of kictanet Digest, Vol 23, Issue 19 ****************************************

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Consumers Again Left Out
by bitange＠jambo.co.ke 20 Jan '07

20 Jan '07

Dear Alex, It is not our intention to leave out anyone in all our functions. If you read the materials I sent out carefully, everybody was invited including media whom we presume will pass the message to Kenyans. The invitations were done jointly with the World Bank. I need addresses of consumer groups such that in future we do not make such errors. I also trust that you could help in such occassions to point out those who have not been invited. I was certain that you will have access to the invitation being a member of kictanet and buy extension you should have sent the same mail to as many consumers as possible. I always have an open door policy and with that you should have pointed this to either me or the World Bank. Nevertheless, we still have time to invite everybody. Thank you and I hope to see you at the meeting. Regards Ndemo. ---------------------------------------------- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. --------------------------------------------- "easy access to the world"

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Press Release (Senior U.S. Diplomat Helps Open New Joint Venture in Kakamega) US Embassy]
by bitange＠jambo.co.ke 20 Jan '07

20 Jan '07

Attached please find the US Ambassador's speach at Masinde Muliro University at the officiallaunch of the a new joint venture between G7 Systems of Tampa, Florida and the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology in Kakamega. This innovative new business, called G7 Systems Kenya Ltd., has hired 30 Kenyan engineers to provide Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) services to G7's global clients, which include a number of Fortune 500 corporations in the United States. G7 Kenya's engineers will provide customized computer programming services to customers over the internet using a satellite uplink in the University's Science and Technology Park. If the company succeeds and expands, it could eventually employ up to 800 Kenyan staff, providing a major boost to the local economy in Kakamega. As Ms. Slutz pointed out in her remarks, delivered on behalf of U.S. Ambassador Michael E. Ranneberger, the venture also proves that Kenya can use the advantages of its well-educated, English-speaking citizenry to compete and prosper in the global economy. "Far from fearing globalization, Kenya can and should embrace it...by tapping into the vast potential of its educated workforce and by linking that talent to the rest of the world through digital technologies." She praised Kenyan Government plans to improve the infrastructure and the regulatory environment in the information and communications sectors. These efforts, she said, are pivotal to the success of companies like G7 Systems and to catalyzing economic development and reducing poverty in Kenya. ---------------------------------------------- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. --------------------------------------------- "easy access to the world"

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APC at the World Social Forum
by alice＠apc.org 19 Jan '07

19 Jan '07

The most impressive gathering of civil society and social movements is roaring. It starts tomorrow in Nairobi, Kenya and as many of you know, it's called the World Social Forum. Follow the event, read the interviews, articles and to-the-minute updates direct from East Africa. APC members Alternatives (Canada), Arid Lands Information Network (Kenya), Enda Tiers Monde (Senegal), Instituto del Tercer Mundo (Uruguay), Japan Computer Access and VOICE (Bangladesh) are attending. Expect the news straight from the horse's mouth, as our pool of writers is set at the starting line. They will report on technology for social change, fair trade and progressive communications as well as on the general flavour of this year's WSF. Check: http://www.apc.org AND http://blog.apc.org World Social Forum (WSF) Nairobi, Kenya Jan 20-25, 2007 http://wsf2007.org/

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Introducing Becky Wanjiku
by alice＠apc.org 18 Jan '07

18 Jan '07

Dear All Becky Wanjiku, a journalist with Highway Africa, will be working with the KICTAnet to produce our monthly E-bulletins as well as working on other communication and events related tasks. These projects are supported by the Open Society Institute Eastern Africa (OSIEA), Wananchi online, KENET and the Embassy of Finland in Kenya. Thank you and best regards alice

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Invitation and Registration Form -RCIP
by Judy kimiti 18 Jan '07

18 Jan '07

Dear Member, Aplologies for cross posting. ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Judy kimiti <jkimiti01(a)yahoo.co.uk> To: kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke Sent: Thursday, 18 January, 2007 4:05:31 PM Subject: Fw: [Kictanet] Monday forum please attend - Invitation and Registration Form Dear Member, Please find attached the Invite Letter, Agenda and Registration Form for the Regional Communications Infrastructure Program Workshop. Interested members are requested to return the completed registration form to rcip(a)worldbank.org or faxed on 315147 by Friday, 19 January 2007. Please submit one registration form for each person attending. Thank you. Yours Faithfully, Judy Kimiti KICTANet ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Rebecca Wanjiku rebeccawanjiku(a)yahoo.com To: jkimiti01@yah oo.co.uk Sent: Thursday, 18 January, 2007 1:59:00 PM Subject: [Kictanet] Monday forum please attend PROPOSED REGIONAL COMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM (RCIP) STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION WORKSHOP Hope you are planning to attend the stakeholder workshop on the proposed regional Communication Infrastructure Program (RCIP) on Monday. The consultation workshop organized jointly by the ministry of Information and Communication and the World Bank. The forum will address issues relating to connectivity, lowering costs and the environmental implications of the infrastructure. The World Bank claims that Economic development in Eastern and Southern Africa (E&SA) is held back by prohibitive telecommunications and ICT costs due to incomplete liberalization and lack of infrastructure. The proposed Regional Communications Infrastructure Program (RCIP) is a joint World Bank Group effort to leverage private sector participation along side efforts by eight other development partners (AfDB, AFD, DBSA, DFID, EIB, EU, KfW and SIDA). It will be a chance for you to interrogate the project and find out what it will cost the country in terms of WB demands. The minister, the PS and other senior WB officials will be present to answer any questions regarding the project. It will also be a forum where stakeholders in the ICT industry can find out more about the position of the ICT bill and whether the priority should be making the process transparent or putting in place an Act that can safeguard against any excesses by procuring entities. The PS has forwarded the registration and background documents but if you require any assistance, just email me. alice(a)apc.org wrote: Dear All Becky Wanjiku, a journalist with Highway Africa, will be working with the KICTAnet to produce our monthly E-bulletins as well as working on other communication and events related tasks. These projects are supported by the Open Society Institute Eastern Africa (OSIEA), Wananchi online, KENET and the Embassy of Finland in Kenya. Thank you and best regards alice _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Please unsubscribe or change your options at http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/rebeccawanjiku%40yahoo.com Rebecca Wanjiku, journalist, p.o box 33515, Nairobi.00600 Kenya. Tel. 254 720 318 925 blog:http://beckyit.blogspot.com/ The fish are biting. Get more visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search Marketing. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Please unsubscribe or change your options at http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jkimiti01%40yahoo.co.uk What kind of emailer are you? Find out today - get a free analysis of your email personality. Take the quiz at the Yahoo! Mail Championship. ___________________________________________________________ What kind of emailer are you? Find out today - get a free analysis of your email personality. Take the quiz at the Yahoo! Mail Championship. http://uk.rd.yahoo.com/evt=44106/*http://mail.yahoo.net/uk

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Fw: Monday forum please attend - Invitation and Registration Form
by Judy kimiti 18 Jan '07

18 Jan '07

Dear Member, Please find attached the Invite Letter, Agenda and Registration Form for the Regional Communications Infrastructure Program Workshop. Interested members are requested to return the completed registration form to rcip(a)worldbank.org or faxed on 315147 by Friday, 19 January 2007. Please submit one registration form for each person attending. Thank you. Yours Faithfully, Judy Kimiti KICTANet ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Rebecca Wanjiku rebeccawanjiku(a)yahoo.com To: jkimiti01@yah oo.co.uk Sent: Thursday, 18 January, 2007 1:59:00 PM Subject: [Kictanet] Monday forum please attend PROPOSED REGIONAL COMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM (RCIP) STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION WORKSHOP Hope you are planning to attend the stakeholder workshop on the proposed regional Communication Infrastructure Program (RCIP) on Monday. The consultation workshop organized jointly by the ministry of Information and Communication and the World Bank. The forum will address issues relating to connectivity, lowering costs and the environmental implications of the infrastructure. The World Bank claims that Economic development in Eastern and Southern Africa (E&SA) is held back by prohibitive telecommunications and ICT costs due to incomplete liberalization and lack of infrastructure. The proposed Regional Communications Infrastructure Program (RCIP) is a joint World Bank Group effort to leverage private sector participation along side efforts by eight other development partners (AfDB, AFD, DBSA, DFID, EIB, EU, KfW and SIDA). It will be a chance for you to interrogate the project and find out what it will cost the country in terms of WB demands. The minister, the PS and other senior WB officials will be present to answer any questions regarding the project. It will also be a forum where stakeholders in the ICT industry can find out more about the position of the ICT bill and whether the priority should be making the process transparent or putting in place an Act that can safeguard against any excesses by procuring entities. The PS has forwarded the registration and background documents but if you require any assistance, just email me. alice(a)apc.org wrote: Dear All Becky Wanjiku, a journalist with Highway Africa, will be working with the KICTAnet to produce our monthly E-bulletins as well as working on other communication and events related tasks. These projects are supported by the Open Society Institute Eastern Africa (OSIEA), Wananchi online, KENET and the Embassy of Finland in Kenya. Thank you and best regards alice _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Please unsubscribe or change your options at http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/rebeccawanjiku%40yahoo.com Rebecca Wanjiku, journalist, p.o box 33515, Nairobi.00600 Kenya. Tel. 254 720 318 925 blog:http://beckyit.blogspot.com/ The fish are biting. Get more visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search Marketing. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Please unsubscribe or change your options at http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jkimiti01%40yahoo.co.uk ___________________________________________________________ To help you stay safe and secure online, we've developed the all new Yahoo! Security Centre. http://uk.security.yahoo.com

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PROPOSED REGIONAL COMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM (RCIP) STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION WORKSHOP
by alice＠apc.org 18 Jan '07

18 Jan '07

Dear all For those who did not recive docs for the Ministry InfoCom and World Bank meeting, pelase find them attached. best alice ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PROPOSED REGIONAL COMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM (RCIP) STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION WORKSHOP Hope you are planning to attend the stakeholder workshop on the proposed regional Communication Infrastructure Program (RCIP) on Monday. The consultation workshop organized jointly by the ministry of Information and Communication and the World Bank. The forum will address issues relating to connectivity, lowering costs and the environmental implications of the infrastructure. The World Bank claims that Economic development in Eastern and Southern Africa (E&SA) is held back by prohibitive telecommunications and ICT costs due to incomplete liberalization and lack of infrastructure. The proposed Regional Communications Infrastructure Program (RCIP) is a joint World Bank Group effort to leverage private sector participation along side efforts by eight other development partners (AfDB, AFD, DBSA, DFID, EIB, EU, KfW and SIDA). It will be a chance for you to interrogate the project and find out what it will cost the country in terms of WB demands. The minister, the PS and other senior WB officials will be present to answer any questions regarding the project. It will also be a forum where stakeholders in the ICT industry can find out more about the position of the ICT bill and whether the priority should be making the process transparent or putting in place an Act that can safeguard against any excesses by procuring entities. The PS has forwarded the registration and background documents but if you require any assistance, just email me. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Rebecca Wanjiku, journalist, p.o box 33515, Nairobi.00600 Kenya. Tel. 254 720 318 925 ----- Original Message ----- From: <bitange(a)jambo.co.ke> To: <alice(a)apc.org> Sent: Friday, January 12, 2007 2:19 PM Subject: [Kictanet] World Bank/MOIC > > > > > > > Dear All, > Attached please find an invitation to a consultative breakfast meeting to > be held at the Jacaranda Hotel, Westlands. The meeting is to explore how > World Bank-financed Regional Communication Infrastructure Program > (RCIP)would fit into our existing programs. In a nut shell, they are > considering providing bandwidth subsidy to public institutions. We need > your participation. > > The Stakeholder consultation is open to civil society organizations, > private sector, academia, parliamentarians, Government and Local > Authorities. Registration Details can be found in the attached documents. > > > Regards > > > Bitange Ndemo. > ---------------------------------------------- > 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)kictanet.or.ke > http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > Please unsubscribe or change your options at > http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/alice%40apc.org

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Econet fails to stop new rival
by alice＠apc.org 18 Jan '07

18 Jan '07

Econet fails to stop new rival By Judy Ogutu ECONET Wireless Kenya Limited has lost an attempt to block Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK) from issuing Vtel Consortium with a Second National Operator licence. The company had gone to court last December, asking for an injunction restraining CCK from issuing the licence to Vtel that won the SNO bid last October. Vtel won the bid at $169 million (about Sh11.8 billion). On Wednesday, High Court Judge, Justice Alnashir Visram said granting "would cause considerable harm to CCK, the Kenyan economy, consumer and people of Kenya." He added: "We would possibly lose $169m in immediate revenue from Vtel, we would send a dangerous signal to future investors that we do not believe in market economy and the freedom to make investment decisions without being stunted and stifled, and we would deny the Kenyan consumer the opportunity to benefit from competition in a free market economy." Econet had rushed to court saying CCK's intended to issue Vtel with the license this month. In its application, Econet argued that despite being licensed by CCK as the third mobile phone operator in October 2003, it had not been provided with frequencies to enable it roll out its network. Through lawyer Mr Paul Ogunde, Econet accused CCK of preventing it from entering the market. Ogunde told Justice Visram that it was unjust to have Vtel licensed. The company said it would continue to suffer huge losses because of CCK's unwillingness to provide it the means to enter the market, while at the same time issuing a license to another operator to do the same business. But CCK's lawyer, Prof Githu Muigai defended the commission, saying Econet had been unable to meet requirements for the award of the licence to operate as the third mobile service provider. Muigai argued Econet had not participated in the tender for the issue of the SNO licence and, therefore, had no locus standi. The judge ruled Econet's argument was not tenable in law. "Econet did not even bid for that licence. It is a total stranger to it, and whether it has the locus or ability to attack another person's successful bid is a huge question mark." The Judge said it was not fair for the company to ask CCK not to deal with any other party instead of demanding specific performance of its contract.

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Re: [Kictanet] Monday forum please attend
by joseph kihanya 18 Jan '07

18 Jan '07

Dear Rebecca, I am yet to receive the documents in question. At what location and time is the meeting? J. Kihanya ----- Original Message ---- From: Rebecca Wanjiku <rebeccawanjiku(a)yahoo.com> To: kihanyajn(a)yahoo.com Sent: Thursday, January 18, 2007 1:59:00 PM Subject: [Kictanet] Monday forum please attend PROPOSED REGIONAL COMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM (RCIP) STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION WORKSHOP Hope you are planning to attend the stakeholder workshop on the proposed regional Communication Infrastructure Program (RCIP) on Monday. The consultation workshop organized jointly by the ministry of Information and Communication and the World Bank. The forum will address issues relating to connectivity, lowering costs and the environmental implications of the infrastructure. The World Bank claims that Economic development in Eastern and Southern Africa (E&SA) is held back by prohibitive telecommunications and ICT costs due to incomplete liberalization and lack of infrastructure. The proposed Regional Communications Infrastructure Program (RCIP) is a joint World Bank Group effort to leverage private sector participation along side efforts by eight other development partners (AfDB, AFD, DBSA, DFID, EIB, EU, KfW and SIDA). It will be a chance for you to interrogate the project and find out what it will cost the country in terms of WB demands. The minister, the PS and other senior WB officials will be present to answer any questions regarding the project. It will also be a forum where stakeholders in the ICT industry can find out more about the position of the ICT bill and whether the priority should be making the process transparent or putting in place an Act that can safeguard against any excesses by procuring entities. The PS has forwarded the registration and background documents but if you require any assistance, just email me. alice(a)apc.org wrote: Dear All Becky Wanjiku, a journalist with Highway Africa, will be working with the KICTAnet to produce our monthly E-bulletins as well as working on other communication and events related tasks. These projects are supported by the Open Society Institute Eastern Africa (OSIEA), Wananchi online, KENET and the Embassy of Finland in Kenya. Thank you and best regards alice _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Please unsubscribe or change your options at http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/rebeccawanjiku%40yahoo.com Rebecca Wanjiku, journalist, p.o box 33515, Nairobi.00600 Kenya. Tel. 254 720 318 925 blog:http://beckyit.blogspot.com/ The fish are biting. Get more visitors on your site using Yahoo! Search Marketing. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Please unsubscribe or change your options at http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kihanyajn%40yahoo.com ____________________________________________________________________________________ Looking for earth-friendly autos? Browse Top Cars by "Green Rating" at Yahoo! Autos' Green Center. http://autos.yahoo.com/green_center/

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Safaricom must improve or lose to a better option
by Judy kimiti 16 Jan '07

16 Jan '07

Safaricom must improve or lose to a better option By Andrew Odete Dear Mr Michael Joseph, I tried calling you for a chat, but the network was down, so I fell back to the old ink and pen. It never lets you down, which is more than I can say for the postal service. That is why I have taken the liberty to write to you through the media, for which I beg your understanding and forgiveness. It is not because I am a cheapskate. Greetings from many readers who have asked me to relay their heartfelt congratulations to you for dragging Safaricom, biting and kicking, into the Sh12 billion-profit mark. The readers are also your subscribers and they have exhorted me to relay their concerns relating on your service to your doorstep. You are top in business First, your customers appreciate that achieving such an unprecedented subscription as you have in the proverbial blink of an eye is worthy of accolades. Many say, and rightly so, that you have come top of the business stakes in the region for listening to and understanding your customers. What is more impressive is that you achieved this in the hitherto unexplored terrain of mobile telephony in Kenya. However, your customers hope that this year, the company will outdo itself and improve on last year's performance. Oh yes, sir, they seem to believe that there is room for improvement on your part. Some even reckon that it is pretty easy to be the "Better Option" in a field where there are not too many service providers to challenge you on the quality of the product. Cheap but clogged While they appreciate that you have increased coverage in the country, they wish you could also increase the quality of telephone service. Clarity of phone calls and reliability of the service is all they want. For instance, when you so very kindly offered cheap calling rates during the festive season, the relentless crush of callers ensured that nobody could get through the network at various times of the day. Your network crashed, as happened increasingly often in the course of last year. Moreover, sir, you know we have such diverse accents and dialects that it helps to have a clear line; otherwise, we could as well be insulting one another over the phone. That would be uncivilised and, if I may say so, unChristmas! When Kananu calls from Imenti, Muli from Masinga or Jaoko from Mbita next to the lake, I want to hear the phonetic innocence of their respective dialects and interpret them accordingly. No reason to toast And when Akinyi jets back to Kenya, and tries out her full-on Texan- cum-Siaya drawl on my ears, it would help to, at least, hear some of her words. This year, Safaricom may need to ratchet it up a notch higher if your subscribers are to see the sense of continuing to top up so that you, in turn, may continue to top the profit league. I am sure you have the savoir-faire to remain the toast of East Africa. Already, your subscribers cannot stop thanking you for the reduced call charges. But I fear that unless you give your customers a new year present in the way of better quality services, an even better option might come along and make toast of you. And now that I cannot get through to you on the phone, sir, I take this opportunity to wish you a happy New Year and to request that you please call me back when the network is back to normal. Thank you. odeteac(a)yahoo.com http://www.eastandard.net/hm_news/news.php?articleid=1143963704 ___________________________________________________________ To help you stay safe and secure online, we've developed the all new Yahoo! Security Centre. http://uk.security.yahoo.com

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Interesting trend with African-led ICT investments
by Brian Longwe 15 Jan '07

15 Jan '07

I am extremely impressed and encouraged to see Wananchi online's bid to takeover African Lakes and all their holdings which include all of Africa Online's branches as well as a number of infrastructure and internet licenses across the continent. Could this be the emergence of a truly African Mega-ISP? Considering the attrition that the ISP industry is facing continent- wide, which was very aptly commented on by Russell Southwood in his article "The African ISP is dead - Long live the African ISP" where he spoke of the encroachment of the mobile operators into internet services and the threat that this posed to the ISP as we know it today. In this article he clearly indicated some of the survival strategies that ISPs would have to consider, including consolidation, divestiture into other revenue generating areas e.g. content production and regional expansion. It is interesting to note that Wananchi seem to have taken the prescription wholesale and are aiming to act on almost all of these areas. For me on a personal basis I am very happy to see an indigenous African-led transaction of such magnitude in the ICT sector - which has in the past been dominated by "foreigners" who didn't really understand african markets. I can't wait to see what else Wananchi have up their sleeves! Regards, Brian Begin forwarded message: > From: Joseph Mucheru <mucheru(a)wananchi.com> > Date: January 15, 2007 9:23:47 AM GMT+03:00 > To: "brian(a)inhand.co.ke" <brian(a)inhand.co.ke> > Subject: FW: Press Announcement > > From: Wananchi Online Ltd <announcements(a)wananchi.com> > Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2007 00:42:06 +0300 > To: <All_Wananchi_Online_Ltd_Customers(a)wananchi.com> > Subject: Press Announcement > > > Wananchi Online creates a new Group Structure > > On 28th December 2006, Wananchi Online together with a group of > Kenyan, > British and American investors announced its intention to acquire the > entire issued and to be issued share capital of the African Lakes > Corporation (TALC). TALC is the holding company of Africa Online > Limited > and UUNET Africa. The success of the acquisition will see the creation > of Africa's largest consumer broadband company and goes a long way in > achieving Wananchi's vision of being "Africa's leading Internet > Communications Provider". The bid is being made through a special > purpose vehicle registered for this purpose in the UK, The African > Telecoms Company Limited. > > The full text of the announcement can be found at this url: > > Short Url: > http://urlx.org/londonstockexchange.co.uk/fd1e5 > > Long URL: > http://www.londonstockexchange.co.uk/LSECWS/IFSPages/ > MarketNewsPopup.aspx?id > =1372930&source=RNS > > The conclusion of the transaction will see the creation of a group > holding company of which I shall become Chairman and Joseph Mucheru > will become Deputy CEO. We will be joined on the board by amongst > others Mark Schneider, a seasoned American Media Entrepreneur who will > become Vice Chairman and Richard Bell, a seasoned East African ICT > Entrepreneur who will become Chief Executive Officer. Going forward > the company will implement a strategy to create the largest wireless > ADSL broadband network in Africa delivering consumer broadband > services > to Wananchi across the continent. > > As part of this process and in order to allow Joseph to focus on this > ambitious project, we are restructuring elements of the existing > Wananchi > Online operations to align them with this strategy. To this end I am > pleased to announce that with immediate effect Sandeep Mangat will be > taking over the day to day operations of Wananchi Online and Hamish > Govani > will be assisting him as Chief Financial Officer. > > I am also pleased to inform you that Richard Bell has been > appointed to > the board of Wananchi Online to assist in making sure that the > companies > strategies are aligned with the bigger picture which I have already > outlined. Richard is a former director of TALC, founder of Swift > Global > Kenya and Uganda, founder of Kenya Data Networks, founding Chairman of > TESPOK, KIXP and KENIC. He is currently the Managing Partner of > East Africa > Capital Partners a private equity firm which specializes in > Technology, > Media and Telecoms investments. He became a Sloan Fellow of the London > Business School in 2005. > > We are please to tell you that limited broadband coverage is already > available in parts of Nairobi and Mombassa and we will be providing > special > offers and a limited amount of free equipment to existing customers > when > the full rollout begins. So I do encourage you to renew your dial- > up and/or > email subscriptions now so that you can take advantage of these > offers when > the time comes. Those whose subscriptions have lapsed or who fail to > become WOL customers in time will be time barred from these special > customer > loyalty offers. > > We will continue to keep you informed as our plans develop. For > further > information you can contact Sandeep Mangat on 020 329 2000 or email > sunny.mangat(a)wananchi.com > > -- > > James Gachui, > Chairman > Wananchi Online Limited > >

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Postponed to Next Mon 22nd: Re: What Model for EASsy, TEAMS, et al?-(2weeks Online Discussion)
by John Walubengo 15 Jan '07

15 Jan '07

Apologies to all, This session has had to be postponed and will commence next week...any inconviniences highly regreted but we shall be on air next monday 22nd starting from 12:00GMT. walu. --- John Walubengo <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> wrote: > Greetings all, > > I have been given the un-enviable task by KICTAnet to > lead > an online discussion on the type of model we in East > Africa > would prefer for our long awaited submarine fiber > cable(s). > > The task is un-enviable because it is not only regional > and > complicated and but probably belated as well. However, > it > is worth reviewing for purposes of bringing everyone upto > speed with the importance and the issues surrounding > fiber-optic connectivity to the global super-highway > (internet). > > I will basically be taking us through what I gather are > the > issues as per the questions/themes below: > > The Questions/Issues > 1) Why do we need International Optical Fiber > Connectivity? > (1day) > 2) What are the existing (and possible) > Business/Financial > models for Optical Fiber Submarine Cables?(2days) > 3) What are the existing (and possible) Regulatory models > for Optical Fiber Submarine Cables?(2days) > 4) What would be the ideal model for East Africans? > (2days) > 5) How will this (ideal) model impact on the existing > stakeholders(Consumers, Operators, Regulators,etc)(2days) > 6) How can conflicting stakeholder interest be > resolved?(2days) > > And hope that you guys can interject with your comments, > objections and clarifications. Your comments would be > highly appreciated because you are the operators, the > regulators, the private sector investors, the Govt, etc. > I > shall only set the tone, you shall give the views. > > So get ready, starting next Monday 15th Jan - Sat 27th > Jan > to participate in this very important discussion. > > walu. > > > > > ____________________________________________________________________________________ > Need a quick answer? Get one in minutes from people who > know. > Ask your question on www.Answers.yahoo.com > ____________________________________________________________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Everyone is raving about the all-new Yahoo! Mail beta. http://new.mail.yahoo.com

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Fw: EASSy Project Dispute Takes New Twist
by alice＠apc.org 12 Jan '07

12 Jan '07

----- Original Message ----- From: "Binaifer Nowrojee" <bnowrojee(a)osiea.org> Eassy Project Dispute Takes New Twist by Elias Biryabarema 729 words Kampala, Jan 09, 2007 (The Monitor/All Africa Global Media via COMTEX) -- THE protracted wrangle between the NEPAD's e-Africa Commission and a consortium of companies that initially conceived the Eastern Africa Submarine Cable System (EASSy) project now looks set to result in the construction of two competing submarine cables, Daily Monitor has learnt. What is still unclear is to what extent this new development will affect the pace of development of the cable project and how it will impact its ability to meet its overriding objectives, mainly bringing down the costs of communication and spurring the Information, Communication and Information (ICT) industry in the region. EASSy is an ambitious initiative to connect countries of eastern Africa via a high bandwidth fibre optic cable system to the rest of the world. It was first mooted by a group of about 15 telecom companies meeting in Nairobi, Kenya in 2003. They included Uganda's MTN and UTL, Telecom S. Africa, Kenya Telecom and others. They planned to lay a fibre optic cable along the East African coast that would offer a direct connection to the world's information superhighway. It was to enable the region have access to a broadband network which would permit ultra-fast transmission of digital traffic and at cheaper prices. Mr Donald Nyakairu, UTL's Legal Counsel and Chairman of EASSy Finance committee asserted in a recent interview that the e-Africa Commission's hijacking of the cable was unfair and opportunistic and that its actions were being totally disregarded. The consortium has repeatedly rebuffed entreaties from the commission to stop their plans and join in the NEPAD project. "While the e-Commission is busy making everybody believe that they're in charge of the project, for us we are advancing pretty fast and real construction is starting soon," Mr Nyakairu said. He said the original companies that conceived the idea later signed an understanding and constituted themselves into a consortium that was supposed to develop, own and operate the cable. The e-Commission was invited in the subsequent meetings, as an observer but to the astonishment of the consortium, it soon started to show deep interest in the project's details and even demanded active involvement. "We thought they were attending to see the progress, but all of a sudden they started to make demands which shocked us," Nyakairu said. Right now, the e-Commission is pursuing its own project in concert with the World Bank, the African Development Bank and the governments of South Africa, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, DR Congo, Rwanda and others which are also signatories to the EASSy protocol. The conflict between the two sides principally stems from the mode of the project implementation. NEPAD e-Africa Commission insists that a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) develops, owns, and operates the cable while the consortium wants companies to take charge exclusively. Mr Nyakairu said if the commission wants to construct a parallel cable, then it must find its own name and stop encroaching on the intellectual property of the consortium (EASSy). However, the Commission's regulatory advisor, Dr Edmund Katiti dismissed claims that it was hijacking the EASSy name. "The regional network is currently referred to as the NEPAD ICT Broadband Infrastructure Network" he said, adding that it consists of two interconnected segments - a submarine cable and a terrestrial network (intra-country cable). He said the shareholders in the SPVs are the ones who will decide what name(s) to give to the network and its segments. As a way of attempting to defuse the differences and accommodate the concerns of the Commission, Mr Nyakairu said the Consortium members had decided to also have an SPV that would act as a collective investment vehicle for all smaller telecom concerns in the region. This SPV will then buy shares in the cable as a single investor. "We really think we have done everything to address all these accusations," he said. Even then, the two sides seem to be far from striking any agreement. Dr Katiti said the Nepad ICT Broadband Infrastructure Network Protocol is scheduled to go into effect in the first quarter of 2007, which would also mark the commencement of construction. On the other hand, the consortium has already awarded the construction contract to Alcatel and work is beginning early this year.

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Apple "reinvents the phone," unveils iPhone
by Brian Longwe 12 Jan '07

12 Jan '07

Talk about convergence! This phone is a real handheld computer! View this article at: http://www.macnn.com/articles/07/01/09/ apple.unveils.iphone/ Tuesday, January 9,2007 @ 12:55pm Apple "reinvents the phone," unveils iPhone [u] Apple today unveiled the iPhone (site not updated), a wide-screen iPod with touch controls that also functions as a mobile phone and an internet communication device. The company chief Steve Jobs revealed the new device during his keynote speech at the Macworld Conference & Expo in San Francisco. "This is a day I've been looking forward to for two and a half years," Jobs said on stage in front of the keynote attendees. "Every once in a while a product comes along to change the industry. Apple has been fortunate to introduce a few of these: the Mac in 1984; the iPod in 2001. Apple will introduce three revolutionary products of this class. Wide-screen iPod with touch controls. The second is a mobile phone. The third is a break-through internet communication device. All of those in a single device. Not separate devices, but a single device called iPhone. Apple reinvents the phone." [updated] iPhone development began with a revolutionary user interface that leverages hardware as well as software, overcoming the problem of fixed controls that cannot change as applications change. The iPhone utilizes a touch sensitive screen with "multi-touch" technology that does not require a stylus pen to operate, and is far more accurate than other touch displays, according to Jobs. The touch pad allows multi-finger gestures that Jobs says is "at least five years ahead of any other." The iPhone runs Mac OS X with power management, networking, security, applications, Core Animation, and audio/video support. Users can also create desktop-class applications, according to Apple's chief. The iPhone includes a 3.5-inch screen with 160 pixels per inch, as well as a single "home" button. The phone is thinner than any other phone at 11.6mm, and offers volume controls alongside a two megapixel camera built-in on the back. The phone also features a 3.5mm headphone jack, a sleep/wake button on top, a speaker microphone, and an iPod connector on the bottom. A proximity sensor turns off the screen as well as the touch sensor when the phone passes close to the head, and an ambient light sensor turns down the screen brightness as necessary. An accelerometer determines whether to capture a landscape or portrait orientation when taking photos, and the phone includes coverflow technology similar to that used in the company's iTunes software. Apple's iPhone has a dashboard- like interface to each module and function, allowing users to scroll using a finger. The home button returns users back to the dashboard, and the coveflow technology supports scrolling through album art with the touch of a finger. Jobs demonstrated the iPhone's video capability by playing "The Office" TV show, and began playing a wide- screen movie using on-screen controls. The iPhone -- which includes more than 200 patents for inventions used in the device -- offers visual voicemail that allows random access voicemail for direct access, and functions as a quad-band GSM/Edge phone. iPhone includes WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity, providing users with SMS functionality alongside various applications such as a calendar, contacts, and more. An iChat-like interface enables users to send as well as receive SMS messages, and the iPhone supports error correction via a visual keyboard that allows users to type messages. The phone includes built-in photo management that can scroll through photos with the touch of a finger, and a 'pinch' motion zooms in or out while viewing images. Further iPhone features include rich HTML email capability that works with any POP/IMAP email service, and a fully usable copy of Apple's Safari Web browser with support for Google Maps. The phone includes widgets for weather and stocks, and automatically locates WiFi networks when they are available -- switching to the network to maintain internet connectivity. Additionally, Yahoo is offering all iPhone users free push IMAP email service with inline photos and rich text email support. Apple's iPhone also automatically parses out phone numbers with a simple touch-to-call option. Finger gestures navigate Web pages in Safari when browsing the Web, and pinching gestures zoom in on a particular area of a page. Double tapping on a page zooms to that area, while a Cingular menubar displays an AirPort-like signal indicator for WiFi strength. Users can also quickly move to portions of a Web page before it is finished downloading. Steve Jobs introduced Cingular Wireless CEO, saying that features like visual voicemail required help from the carrier. Cingular entered into a multiyear exclusive contract with Apple without ever having seen the phone. Jobs said Apple hopes to grab 1 percent market share (10 million units) in 2008 following the iPhone's introduction into the existing mobile phone market, which consists of nearly 1 billion phones. iPhone accessories include standard headphones that feature a button to answer calls, as well as a new Bluetooth headset with a single button that automatically goes to sleep. Jobs promises five hours of battery life for talking time or video playback, as well as 16 hours of audio playback time. The iPhone will ship in June for $499 (4GB model) and $599 (8GB model), both with a 2 year contract. Copyright ©1995-2005 Macintosh News Network, Inc. All rights reserved.

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FW: [Idlelo2] Fw: ADVERT: PROJECT COORDINATOR - LINUXCHIX AFRICA
by Harry Hare 08 Jan '07

08 Jan '07

Apologies for cross posting. Harry -----Original Message----- From: idlelo2-bounces+harry=aitecafrica.com(a)fossfa.net [mailto:idlelo2-bounces+harry=aitecafrica.com@fossfa.net] On Behalf Of Anna Sent: Sunday, January 07, 2007 7:49 PM To: idlelo2(a)fossfa.net Subject: [Idlelo2] Fw: ADVERT: PROJECT COORDINATOR - LINUXCHIX AFRICA ---------- Forwarded Message ----------- From: "Anna" <anna(a)cs.wits.ac.za> To: africasource2-l(a)lists.tacticaltech.org, africasource-l(a)lists.tacticaltech.org Sent: Sun, 7 Jan 2007 18:44:17 +0200 Subject: Fw: ADVERT: PROJECT COORDINATOR - LINUXCHIX AFRICA LinuxChix Africa (LCA) Programme Coordination LinuxChix Africa seeks to appoint a Project Coordinator. The Project Coordinator will be based at the LinuxChix Africa offices in Johannesburg, South Africa. This position includes both administrative responsibilities and programme management responsibilities, and an opportunity to make a substantive contribution to the growth of LCA. LinuxChix Africa is an African continental organisation that aims to build technical GNU/Linux and Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) skills among African women. We have a presence in over 26 African countries and we are one of the fastest growing networks. We actively encourage and facilitate the active participation of African women in FOSS software development projects. Key areas of responsibility are: 1. Coordinate the following projects: - Capacity Development for LCA in Open Source Software, Production of Training Kits and LCA e-Learning initiatives. - Advocacy and Policy recommendations. - Awareness, Publicity and Software Freedom Day celebration planning and activities. - Communications and Newsletters. - Marketing and Public Relations Strategies. - Conference Planning and Logistics - Policies and Governance coordination. - Develop strategic partnerships with key regional, continental and local organizations. 2. Coordinate LCA website enhancements, lists and newsletters. Manage the online communication with Council, Board, and the membership lists (chix and femme). 3.Convene key meetings with core regional and continental educational institutions and related organizations. 4. Manage the project budget according the objectives and plans agreed to with the Board. 5. Report to the Board meetings and prepare reports as requested by the Board, Council and Funders. 6. Manage Office Staff 7. Any other duties as assigned. Requirements: - Postgraduate qualification. A postgraduate qualification in ICT will be an advantage, - Experience in women and ICTs issues and a passion for women's development in ICT and FOSS - Excellent written and oral presentation skills in English - Demonstrated ability to carry out independent research and project management - Willingness to travel in Africa and occasionally outside the continent, as required - Strong computer and organisational skills, attention to detail, ability to prioritize, and resourcefulness in problem-solving - Ability to listen and communicate clearly and effectively with people from diverse cultures - Ability to work independently but also as a team member (with staff of LCA, the Board, Council and the general membership). The job is offered on a one-year contract. Interested and qualified candidates who match the profile are invited to submit their CV and a letter of interest to: The Chairperson LinuxChix Africa The School of Computer Science University of the Witwatersrand Private Bag 3 Wits 2050 Email: anna(a)cs.wits.ac.za Closing Date for applications is 10th January 2007. Only short-listed candidates will receive a response from LinuxChix Africa. Althouhg LinuxChix Africa does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender or creed, preference will be given to a female candidate. ------- End of Forwarded Message ------- Anna _______________________________________________ Idlelo2 mailing list Idlelo2(a)fossfa.net http://mailman.dst.gov.za/mailman/listinfo/idlelo2 -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.410 / Virus Database: 268.16.5/616 - Release Date: 1/4/2007 -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.410 / Virus Database: 268.16.7/619 - Release Date: 1/7/2007 ---------------------------------------------- This message has been scanned for viruses and dangerous content by Jambo MailScanner, and is believed to be clean. --------------------------------------------- "easy access to the world"

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E-COMMERCE THE WAY FORWARD FOR KENYA and other articles on Kenya from Balancing Act
by alice＠apc.org 07 Jan '07

07 Jan '07

* E-COMMERCE THE WAY FORWARD FOR KENYA (from Balancing Act) > > The way we do things has changed in the last few years mobile phones > became more affordable. > > Take, for example, the short message service, or SMS as it is popularly > known. It is now the medium of interaction in popular radio and TV > programmes or season's greetings and invitations. There is an addition to > our vocabulary - smsing. > > Our lives have been tremendously changed by technology. This is a perfect > illustration of the magnitude of change. > > A local beer company once held a competition that required participants to > send entries of bottle tops by post. A story is told of a gentleman who > went ballistic when he woke up one morning from a night of heavy drinking > to find his little son scattering his treasured collection of > "prize-wining" tops. > > Today such a humiliating quarrel over bottle tops would not arise since > all the old fellow needs to do is instantly SMS the details of entry to > the company server, and he will be notified of the outcome by SMS. > > And if this is what the simple SMS can do, what revolution would computers > and the internet cause if they were made accessible to more people? > > Advertisements along the road from a country's major airport to the city > centre is said to reflect its core economic activity. > > And what do we see from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Kenyatta > Avenue in Nairobi? An array of what the world calls ICT (information and > communication technology) messages are lined up to entice us - from mobile > phone handsets and wireless service providers, computers, TVs and so on to > radio stations. > > They are the gadgets and services that matter, and what George Gilder > calls "the vectors of growth, the sweet spots of finance" (Telescom: The > World After Bandwidth Abundance, Touchstone, 2002). So if the information > age is where the money is, who does not want to be there? > > One sector that is going to drive the next phase of the internet boom, or > Web 2.0, is e-commerce, which is doing business electronically without the > seller and the buyer being in physical contact. > > Lower communication costs is enabling people to reach wider markets and > making it possible for goods and services to be traded in a whole new way. > > For example, some women's groups in Tabaka, Gucha district, now sell their > soapstone artifacts to the world by simply taking digital pictures of > their new products and posting offers on their Web ite, > www.soapstoneafrica.com > > A firm in Eldoret that spins yarn and makes woollen products cannot > imagine business without the e-mail, which has made it easy for them to > reach the sophisticated western market at the click of the mouse. > > There are many more Kenyans making innovative efforts in the e-business, > especially in the service industries of consultancy and outsourcing. > People used to believe in duty-free shops as real bargains, but they now > say they are as cheap as the internet. > > Although e-commerce is the future of enterprise, consumer protection, > intellectual property rights, privacy and security are issues of grave > concern. For instance, on the internet you do not know whom you are > dealing with; it could be a robber or a con man. > > Thus, for e-business to grow, people must trust the technology. People are > not only buying and selling cars, computers and kiondos and other "brick > and mortar" goods online, but they are also dealing in information, music > and software, which are now categorised as products. There is an urgent > need to enact e-commerce laws. The law shoulddeal with if electronic > evidence is admissible in the court. > > Kenyans would do more business if there was legislation and the right > infrastructure for electronic transactions, and more tourists would be > happy to come and see the new wonder of the world at the Maasai Mara and > make payments online. > > Although it may be difficult to tame the Internet because of its > cross-border nature, all is not lost as there are tools of control. Recent > efforts by the Government and development partners to tackle reforms in > e-transaction and e-commerce laws are commendable, but more needs to be > done. > (SOURCE: The Nation) * KENYA GOVT MAY LET VTEL OFF 30% LOCAL STAKE AS IT CONSIDERS RULE CHANGE > > The government of Kenya is considering abolishing the rule that stipulates > that foreign companies investing in the telecommunication sector must > allocate at least 30 per cent shares to nationals. > > It is the government's response to the perennial disputes between local > and foreign investors that have frustrated the conclusion of major > telecommunications projects in the country, especially of late. > > The East African has learnt that the Ministry of Information and > Communication has already drafted a document with proposals for a more > liberal regime for foreign investors. The developments come in the wake of > a major falling out between the shareholders Vtel Holding Ltd - the > company that only recently won the bid for a major telecommunications > licence combining mobile and landline services - that has now plunged what > was regarded as the most promising deal in the telecommunications sector > in recent years into uncertainty. > > V-tel won the highly contested licence, for which it bid an impressive > Ksh12 billion ($169 million) - the single largest foreign direct > investment in Kenya in decades. Well-placed sources told The East African > that the government wants an arrangement where the 30 per cent local > shareholding rule will be made optional, on the understanding that foreign > investors have to sell the 30 per cent stake to the public through an IPO > after a stipulated period. > > Before the Dubai firm won the bid, the licensing of the second national > operator to compete with the lacklustre Telkom Kenya - the country's sole > fixed-line operator - had proved to be a messy affair mired in court cases > leading to several postponements. > > But hopes that the Vtel will hit the ground running seem to be fading > after it turned out that its local partners are unable to raise their > portion of the financial commitment. > In a development that is eerily reminiscent of the woes plaguing Kenya's > third operator Econet Wireless, the dispute between Vtel and its Kenyan > partners seems destined for the courts, where it is likely to take years > to resolve. > > Legal experts who spoke off the record to The East African trace the > origins of the problem to a policy statement made by the government in > 1997. In November of that year, the government published the "postal > telecommunications sector policy statement," spelling out a new structure > for the industry. It was this document that introduced the threshold for > equity participation by local investors in privatised telecommunications > companies. > > Specifically, the document stipulated that "any company licensed to > provide telecommunications services in the liberalised market should have > at least 70 per cent of its equity owned by Kenyans." In subsequent years, > to make the regime more friendly to foreign investors, the rule was > revised to 60 per cent for foreigners and 40 for locals. > > In the year 2002, then Minister for Information and Telecommunications > Musalia Mudavadi published a gazette notice in which he changed the local > equity threshold to 70 per cent for foreign investors and a minimum of 30 > per cent for locals. > > Another condition that has come to affect the process and which Vtel will > have to deal with is the requirement that the shareholding structure of > the winning bid's tender cannot be changed before the licence is issued. > This, say experts, is what has seen the South African-based Econet > Wireless Ltd locked in one case after another. > > Sources tell The East African that Vtel was facing a crisis that emerged > barely a fortnight after it won the tender, when it failed to formally > submit its licence application. > > It is believed that Vtel, a $1 billion holding company registered in the > United Arab Emirates, which serves as the investment arm of the > Palestinian Telecommunications Company (Paltel) in the Middle East, North > Africa and Asia, could easily pay its share of the licence fees, but was > being held back by its local partners. > > Sources say the firm stated as much in a letter to the Communications > Commission of Kenya (CCK) in which it sought an extension of the December > 8, 2006 deadline for formally applying for the licence. > > Subsequently, one of the local partners, Unitel, denied in a press > statement that they were unable to raise their share of the licence fee. > > Unitel's managing director Francis Makanga, insisted that the firm has the > required funds. He said the company's documents were completed on time and > are filed with the CCK and that it will have all financing ready for its > shares by the time the licence fee is to be paid. > > Vtel Holdings, the consortium's bid leader for the second national > operator, had written to the Communications Commission of Kenya notifying > their intention to drop its local partner owing to its inability to meet > its share of financial obligations. > > A profile of Vtel's local partners makes for intriguing reading. They > comprise Kirinyaga Construction, a leading road builder in Kenya > associated with tycoon Ephraim Maina; Unitel, which is said to be owned by > the family of former District Commissioner Ben Makanga; Kusco, the > umbrella body of more than 3,000 co-operatives; and businessman Michael > Kirui, Nairobi lawyer Fred Ngatia and Fairacres Ltd coming in as minority > shareholders. Loita Capital Partners International is the lead transaction > advisor. > > Sources say Vtel, in its letter to the CCK, was seeking the nod to drop > its partners on the grounds that they were facing difficulties coming up > with their share of the licence fees. The firm says it will not be able to > submit its application with Unitel as its partner, raising fears that the > matter could be headed for the courts. > > Econet, has been involved in damaging feud with its local partners, the > Federation of Co-operatives of Kenya and Corporate Africa after the two > failed to raise their share of the licence fees, which saw the matter end > up in court, where it is still stuck. > > Vtel's imminent falling out with its partners has put paid to a > declaration by its Chief Executive Officer Nour Atout that the consortium > will roll out both fixed line and mobile telephony networks at the same > time, making a record of sorts. > > The pledge saw Telkom, Vtel's principal competitor as a national operator, > declare it will also venture into the highly profitable cellphones sector, > drawing immediate protests from its partner Safaricom, the region's most > successful cellular phone company. > (SOURCE: The East African) > > > WEB AND MOBILE DATA NEWS > _____________________________________________________________________ > * KENYAN PUPILS GET SCHOOL RESULTS THROUGH THE INTERNET AND MOBILE PHONES > > For the first time in KCPE history, candidates and their parents yesterday > received details of their results directly on their cellphones and through > the Internet. The results were accessible through the Kenya National > Examination Council (Knec) website www.examscouncil.org.ke or on the > cellphone after sending a prescribed short text message (sms) to 7070. > > Last February, Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education candidates were > able to access their results by logging on to the council website, but > yesterday was the first time the short text message was used to relay > examination results. This year's top candidate David Wamugi got a > breakdown of his results on the sms service. > > His father, James Wamugi, sat for his primary school examination 27 years > ago at Gathathiini primary school in Nyeri. But it took him a day to > receive his results from the school, unlike the instant services his son's > generation is enjoying. Last week, the senior Wamugi told the Nation: "I > didn't know that they had received the breakdown until I saw it on the > mobile phone. "In our days, it took a day to receive the results and then > one had to see the result slip to get a breakdown." > > The website appears to have been inundated with visitors and it often > failed to download the results, unlike the first instance in February this > year when KCSE candidates used it. The public also expressed concern that > strangers could access the results of any candidate whose index number > they held and suggested that a security measure be put in place to protect > the candidates. > > The tradition has been that provincial directors of education attend the > news conference where the Education minister was releasing examinations. > They were then expected to physically transport the results to their > respective offices where their juniors from the districts and head > teachers would collect them. Students in Nairobi would receive their > results the same day while those in other parts of the country would have > to wait for a day or more, depending on how far the school was from > Nairobi. > > > In Mombasa, hundreds of parents jammed cyber cafes trying to know how > their children had performed but left frustrated as the Knec website was > yet to be updated. > Boniface Otieno, who wanted to know how his sister had performed, said: "I > have spent three hours trying to refresh this website but there are no > KCPE results." > (SOURCE: The Nation) . > To see a copy of our new rate card for 2006, e-mail a request to: > (info(a)balancingact-africa.com) Don't get left behind. Be seen and known > through advertising in our e-letter and on our web-site. > ____________________________________________________________________________ > All material printed in Balancing Act's News Update is subject to > copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the > express permission of the publisher. > ____________________________________________________________________________ > > > > > >

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Kictanets Planning minutes
by Judy kimiti 06 Jan '07

06 Jan '07

Dear Member, We at the secretariate would like to begin by wishing you a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Attached are the minutes and presentation of the last Kictanet meeting on December 21st 2006. Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned. Thank you Judy Kimiti KICTANet Tel: 4453671 / 2 Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com

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[Fwd: Present from the ITU]
by Michuki Mwangi 03 Jan '07

03 Jan '07

FYI -------- Original Message -------- http://www.dailypayload.com/2006/1221.html ITU to Distribute Standards Free of Charge December 21, 2006 Many people in the telecommunication industry have pressed for the ITU to make its standards documents available free of charge. Well, the long wait is over. Starting January 2, 2007 the ITU will make its standards documents available to the public free of charge. The same kind of change in policy took place at ETSI several years ago. Reportedly, making its standards available for free did not have a negative impact on ETSI's bottom line. Rather, the free standards helped to drive participation in the standards-making body, thus compensating for any loss in revenue.This move came after a very long trial wherein the ITU allowed a person to register an e-mail address and download three documents free. This trial demonstrated conclusively that there was a strong desire to receive standards at no cost. Since the ITU publishes some documents jointly with ISO, special consideration will be given to those "common" texts, since ISO still charges for its standards and is apparently heavily dependent on the revenue from the sales of its standards. For such "common" texts for which ISO charges a fee, the ITU will not release documents free of charge until they are at least one year old. Documents will be made available in PDF format, downloadable directly from the ITU web site. _______________________________________________ Ietf mailing list Ietf(a)ietf.org https://www1.ietf.org/mailman/listinfo/ietf

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Fw: KICTANET CLOSING DATES
by Judy kimiti 21 Dec '06

21 Dec '06

Dear Members, Please Note Opening Date will be Monday 8th January 2007 and not Thursday as earlier indicated. Thank you and have Merry Christmas. Judy Kimiti ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Judy kimiti <jkimiti01(a)yahoo.co.uk> To: kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke Sent: Thursday, 21 December, 2006 10:14:32 AM Subject: KICTANET CLOSING DATES Dear members, partners, colleagues and friends Greetings. Please note that the KICTANet secretariat will be closed for the christmas holidays from Thursday 21st, 2006 to Thursday 8th, January 2007. We thank you all for your support this year and look foward to continued collaboration in the years to come. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a fabulous 2007. Best wishes Alice Munyua Evelyne Majale Judy Kimiti Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com ___________________________________________________________ All New Yahoo! Mail – Tired of Vi@gr@! come-ons? Let our SpamGuard protect you. http://uk.docs.yahoo.com/nowyoucan.html

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KICTANET CLOSING DATES
by Judy kimiti 21 Dec '06

21 Dec '06

Dear members, partners, colleagues and friends Greetings. Please note that the KICTANet secretariat will be closed for the christmas holidays from Thursday 21st, 2006 to Thursday 8th, January 2007. We thank you all for your support this year and look foward to continued collaboration in the years to come. We wish you a Merry Christmas and a fabulous 2007. Best wishes Alice Munyua Evelyne Majale Judy Kimiti Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com

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Brain drain is a myth so don�t shed tears for it
by Wainaina Mungai 19 Dec '06

19 Dec '06

Brain drain is a myth so dont shed tears for it By Angeyo Kalambuka ( SOURCE: http://www.eastandard.net ) It has become fashionable to lament the brain drain. On the surface, the loss of professionals to the West or other progressive countries looks gloomy. In academic and research circles, there is a concerted raid by overseas groups on our scientific talent. There is an overall feeling of gloom and despair in medicine and engineering about our ability to recruit and retain talented professionals. But the brain drain concept is misleading if not plain wrong. It is a myth. It is bogus to debate it in modern times. Some economists have even calculated how many billions Africa has lost and the West gained from brain drain. That if it costs $5,000 (Sh350,000) to train an engineer in Africa and $100,000 (Sh7 million) in America, there is a drain of $95,000 (Sh6.65 million) when an engineer moves from Africa to the US. This logic makes no sense. First, it assumes that the true value of goods or services is the cost of producing it in the importing country, not the exporting country. The West supplies aeroplanes and weapons that we do not make. So, does it make sense to say there is a huge aeroplane and weapons drain from the West to Africa? Does it matter if highly skilled Africans leave? The genuine answer is No. There is no reason for anyone to agonise over the loss of our best and brightest. There is probably more brain drain from Europe to America, and from elsewhere to Africa, than there is from Africa to the rest of the world combined. But Europeans and Americans are not anxious because they know that economics usually prevails over protectionist sentiments. I celebrate the success of a Kenyan engineer in the Silicon Valley. The global labour market and entrepreneurial capital is just as competitive as any other business. Most talented people go where there is opportunity for growth, meritocracy, peaceful life, order in political and public life and a reasonable chance of prosperity. Even conservative societies such as Japan and Germany have acknowledged the need for qualified foreign work force, and they issue thousands of green cards. It is easy to note that skilled talent is the scarcest commodity in the world and competition for it is stiff. Realism should be the crying need. We are not desperate for quality work force and entrepreneurial talent. Why do we agonise losing our best and at the same time passionately pretend to believe in free trade? Why should we demur when it comes to globalisation of labour? Western experts have provided technology to Africa for generations. Does it follow, therefore, that there is an infinitely large technology drain from abroad to Africa? When a foreign technical expert comes to Kenya, we pay for his services. But when an African doctor migrates to the West, Africa gets no payment. Is that a drain? It is not because huge flows of brainpower in the reverse direction are free too. The overwhelming bulk of brainpower used in our universities is from research done in the West. No Kenyan pays for Albert Einstens knowledge or the huge flow of knowledge in scientific journals. Let us concede that much of the flow of free knowledge is from the rich to poor countries. Yes, we lose brainpower in form of engineers and academics among others. And, yes, we enjoy a huge import of free brainpower in a multitude of forms. But on balance, we get far more than we supply. We should stop being fixated with the brain drain for there are flows of global brainpower, ideas and creativity. The biggest flow is of brainpower in goods and services made with the latest technology. On balance, such technology constitutes a massive net flow of brainpower from rich to poor countries. The reverse in the so-called brain drain is tiny compared to the huge flow of goods and services. Most research development and academic is done in rich countries. Research budgets in the West for producing entertainment, books and other products are huge. Much of it results in not just superior, but also cheaper goods. The low cost of production reflects enormous brainpower that went into cost reduction. Innovation in technology is extremely expensive. To progress, rich countries spend enormous resources on research and development. But poor and extremely disorganized countries such as Kenya leapfrog from traditional, craft technology to modern technologies quickly and at little cost, with little research effort of their own. This gives us a huge advantage: Catching up with technology leaders is easier and faster than developing it. Rapid catch up possibilities have enabled developing countries to grow much faster than rich ones. China or the South-East Asian tigers now register eight to 10 per cent economic growth for using Western technical and managerial input. But the main sources of innovation, including the US, cannot average more than three per cent annual growth. We ought to also bear in mind that not only are our best and brightest going overseas, but the mediocre and the average, too, and earn money in low skill jobs such as sales, building and cleaning. Further, the majority of the so-called talented Africans who go to the West do not engage in any work that requires the best of their brains per se. Finally, the brain drain we waste locally constitutes a far bigger loss than we are ready to admit. Africa gets a net inflow of brainpower. The question is whether our gain would be greater if we did not lose many skilled people to the West. It is a difficult one to answer. --- The writer is a lecturer at the University of Nairobi ---

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Fw: [AU-Monitor] Fahamu conference on mobile technology
by alice＠apc.org 19 Dec '06

19 Dec '06

----- Original Message ----- From: "Binaifer Nowrojee" <bnowrojee(a)osiea.org> To: "Kevin Ombajo" <kombajo(a)yahoo.com>; "A. Wanjira Munyua" <alice(a)apc.org> Cc: "Juliana Osodo" <josodo(a)osiea.org>; "Mugambi Kiai" <mkiai(a)osiea.org> Sent: Monday, December 18, 2006 10:54 PM Subject: FW: [AU-Monitor] Fahamu conference on mobile technology FYI -----Original Message----- From: au-monitor-bounces(a)fahamu.org [mailto:au-monitor-bounces@fahamu.org] On Behalf Of Patrick Burnett Sent: Monday, December 11, 2006 8:57 AM To: au-monitor(a)fahamu.org Subject: [AU-Monitor] Fahamu conference on mobile technology Dear All, I thought you might be interested in this workshop/conference that Fahamu is developing on the use of mobile technology in Africa. Please let us know if you are interested, feel free to pass the information on to your networks and do let us know if you know of any interesting mobile technology initiatives in your country or region. Please reply to fahamumobile(a)gmail.com and not to the list. Best, Patrick Patrick Burnett Contributing Editor Fahamu www.fahamu.org >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Pambazuka News www.pambazuka.org >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Mobile phones for social justice: Calls for expressions of interest Fahamu www.fahamu.org Mobile phone technologies have taken Africa by storm. The technology has raised new possibilities for activism by human rights and social justice organisations and for service delivery in fields such as health care, banking and agricultural information. In 2007, Fahamu and Tactical Tech will hold a conference in Nairobi, Kenya, that will aim to enable those using mobile phone technologies in activism or service delivery work to exchange their experiences of using the technology in the African context and plan strategies to support their work. The conference will explore areas related to the use of mobile technology in the African context, future trends, best practice and available tools and resources. The conference will establish an African regional network of those who use mobile phone technologies and facilitate an ongoing support network. The meeting will also lead to the development of a toolkit on mobile phones put together by an international team of practitioners with relevant expertise. As part of the development of this initiative, Fahamu is conducting research to consult widely and involve as many interested parties as possible in the network and 2007 conference. Fahamu would like to hear from you if you have: - Used, are currently using, or planning to use, mobile phone technology in human rights and social justice work in Africa; - Used or are currently using mobile phones in service delivery work in Africa; - Developed or are in the process of developing technologies related to mobile phones; - Plan to use mobile phone technologies in the future in Africa. Interested individuals and organisations are asked to send an expression of interest not longer than one page to fahamumobile(a)gmail.com with the following information: - Name of organisation or individual - Contact Details - Country - Nature of past, existing or planned work involving mobile technology, including a description of the project, the problem it sought to address and its successes or failures. Alternatively, we would welcome seeing any reports you may have produced (any such information will be treated confidentially if that is your preference). If you would like to discuss this on the phone (preferably using something like Skype) please let us know. It is envisaged that the conference will be held in May 2007. Funds will be available for travel, accommodation and limited expenses of invited participants. Further information about Fahamu can be found at www.fahamu.org and www.pambazuka.org _______________________________________________ Au-monitor mailing list Au-monitor(a)fahamu.org http://lists.fahamu.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/au-monitor African Union Monitor list managed by Fahamu - Networks for Social Justice (http://www.fahamu.org) Subscribe to Pambazuka News (http://www.pambazuka.org)

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VISION 2030 Meeting Agenda
by Judy kimiti 18 Dec '06

18 Dec '06

Dear Member, Please find attached the Agenda for the Vision 2030 Meeting on 21st December 2006 at the Jacaranda Hotel , 3:00pm. For logistics purposes, please RSVP to the undersigned your attendance. Thank You Yours Faithfully Judy Kimiti KICTANet ___________________________________________________________ The all-new Yahoo! Mail goes wherever you go - free your email address from your Internet provider. http://uk.docs.yahoo.com/nowyoucan.html

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Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Access to learning Award: applications 2007
by alice＠apc.org 18 Dec '06

18 Dec '06

See attached the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Access to Learning Award (ATLA) 2007 Award. >The Award recognizes excellence in providing >public access to information through computers, >at no cost to the user. The focus is on >libraries and other information centers. The >recipient will receive an award of up to US $1 >million. Have to stress that the award for work >already completed or in progress, it is not a >grant. > >Application form attached. More >information at ><http://www.inasp.info/ldp/awards/> . >Closing date is 31 December 2006, short notice. >Applications must be emailed or postmarked no >later than December 31. > >Best, > >Adam

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CTO Funding
by alice＠apc.org 18 Dec '06

18 Dec '06

Dear Members, The Commonwealth Secretariat is inviting governments, NGOs and academic institutions to submit project proposals that can help bridge the digital divide. For details and application form, please see: http://www.commonwealthfoundation.com/news/news/detail.cfm?id=277 The deadline is Jan 05, 2007

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Autoreply: Job opening at APC: Africa ICT policy advocacy coordinator
by eadera＠idrc.or.ke 16 Dec '06

16 Dec '06

I am on Leave from 18th December 2006 to 7th January 2007. For any urgent matters, please contact Gladys Githaiga ggithaiga(a)idrc.or.ke) or Nancy Ndungu (nndungu(a)idrc.or.ke)

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Job opening at APC: Africa ICT policy advocacy coordinator
by alice＠apc.org 16 Dec '06

16 Dec '06

Job opening at APC: Africa ICT policy advocacy coordinator BERLIN, Germany -- Job opening at APC: Africa ICT policy advocacy coordinator APC has played a role with other stakeholders in advocacy for the reduction of the cost of international connectivity in Africa. This regional strategy has focused on the East and Southern African Submarine Cable System (EASSy) and the SAT3/SAFE/WASC cable for West Africa. The advocacy work focuses on bringing a civil society perspective to bear on the policy and regulatory structure of these initiatives. It requires tracking the issues, engaging regional policy institutions and stakeholders in government, NEPAD, international institutions, regulators, the private sector, civil society, research centres and the media. It also involves disseminating research and information on the issues at stake as well as scanning the horizon for emerging issues related to information and communications for development and internet governance in Africa, and making connections with global policy forums like the Global Alliance for ICT and Development (GAID) and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF). The Africa information and communication technology (ICT) policy advocacy coordinator is responsible for the coordination and tracking of all ICT advocacy issues within the region and engaging all stakeholders. Application deadline: Tuesday, 31 January 2007, 15:00 UTC Start date: As soon as possible. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES . Develop and implement the APC regional ICT policy advocacy strategy with regard to information and communication technology and development, and internet governance . Work closely with the Africa ICT policy monitor coordinator and the Africa ICT policy researcher to jointly develop research and information dissemination strategies . Network and participate in regional ICT policy processes and with key regional policy institutions and stakeholders in government, NEPAD, international institutions, the private sector, civil society, research centres, regulators and the media in Africa . Report and document regional advocacy initiatives . Participate in the global APC policy programme strategy regarding the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and the Global Alliance on ICT and Development (GAID) JOB REQUIREMENTS . Excellent project management skills . Knowledge of ICT policy advocacy issues in the region, as well as globally . Experience of working in networks and managing partnerships . Experience in information management and dissemination . Work experience in an international context . Online work experience . Good presentation skills . Ability to work as part of a team . Ability to communicate in English and French (written and verbal) . Live in Africa Additional desirable qualities include: . Familiarity with ICT-based civil society networks like the APC ORGANISATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS The Africa ICT policy advocacy coordinator reports to the communication and information policy programme manager and works closely with other members of the team. Most of the work will take place in online discussion spaces, email groups and mailing lists. LOCATION AND WORK CONDITIONS The successful applicant is expected to provide his/her own computer, have access to the internet and a fax machine and work during normal office hours. While much of the work will take place online, some travel to meetings, conferences and workshops, within Africa and internationally, is expected. REMUNERATION This is a full time, one year fixed term/renewable contract. Remuneration is based on APC's salary scale for the position and includes an adjustment that will reflect the cost of living of the successful applicant's country of residence. For more information on the salary range, contact jobs(a)apc.org. ABOUT APC The Association for Progressive Communications (APC) is an international network of civil society organisations dedicated to empowering and supporting groups and individuals working for peace, human rights, development and protection of the environment, through the strategic use of information and communication technologies (ICTs), including the internet. For more information about APC, visit: http://www.apc.org HOW TO APPLY Send a covering letter and detailed CV (as an attachment) which include the following information: . A description of your interest in working with APC in this position . Your experience related to the job requirements listed above . Where you live . A rating of the languages you speak and write . A description of your computer skills . Experience of working in networks and managing partnerships . Work experience in an international context . Online work experience . Other information you think might be of importance to our assessment of your application . Three (3) references: names, relationship and their contact details. Please send this information via email to jobs(a)apc.org with the subject line: "Africa ICT policy advocacy coordinator". Application deadline: Tuesday, 31 January 2007, 15:00 UTC Please note that only short listed candidates will be contacted. Any applications received with viruses will be disqualified automatically. http://www.apc.org/english/news/index.shtml?x=5047031

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IP - the Future of Intellectual Property
by John Walubengo 13 Dec '06

13 Dec '06

For those who may want to move from IP (Internet Protocols) into Intellectual Property (another IP), check this out... http://www.re-public.gr/en/?p=93 walu. ____________________________________________________________________________________ Have a burning question? Go to www.Answers.yahoo.com and get answers from real people who know.

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Vision 2030 Discussion - Date Correction
by Judy kimiti 13 Dec '06

13 Dec '06

Dear Member, Please Note this meeting will be on 21st December, 3:00pm Jacaranda Hotel and not 21st November as earlier indicated. My apologies for this and hope to see you on the said date. Thank you Yours Faithfully Judy Kimiti ----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Judy kimiti <jkimiti01(a)yahoo.co.uk> To: kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke Sent: Monday, 11 December, 2006 12:47:50 PM Subject: Vision 2030 Discussion Dear Member, We wish to invite you for a discussion and broader understanding on how we can work together and contribute to the development of the Vision 2030. The discussion will be VISION 2030 : Catalyzing the Vision through ICT by Mr. Francis Mwaura, E-gov Directorate and will take place on 21st November 2006, 3:00pm, Jacaranda Hotel at the KICTANET Monthly meeting. The presentation is meant to give members first hand information and provide a platform for members to give input. We look forward having you join us at for this presentaion and also request that you please RSVP your attendance to the undersigned for logistics purpose. Thank You Yours Faithfully, Judy Kimiti KICTANET Tel: 4453671 / 2 Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com

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Re: [Kictanet] Vision 2030 Discussion
by Judy kimiti 13 Dec '06

13 Dec '06

Greetings Mucheru, My apologies for that, yes it is 21st Dec, see you then Thanks and best regards Judy ----- Original Message ---- From: Joseph Mucheru <mucheru(a)wananchi.com> To: jkimiti01(a)yahoo.co.uk Sent: Tuesday, 12 December, 2006 6:19:16 AM Subject: Re: [Kictanet] Vision 2030 Discussion See you then! I take it it is 21st December and not November? -- Joseph Mucheru Chief Executive mucheru(a)wananchi.com Wananchi Online Ltd Voted ISP of the Year 2006 Computer Society of Kenya Annual Awards 30th November 2006 Panari Hotel, Nairobi Are you hosting your domain name with the leaders??: See http://webhosting.info/webhosts/tophosts/Country/KE > From: Judy kimiti <jkimiti01(a)yahoo.co.uk> > Reply-To: Kenya ICT Policy - kictanet <kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke> > Date: Mon, 11 Dec 2006 09:47:50 +0000 (GMT) > To: <mucheru(a)wananchi.com> > Subject: [Kictanet] Vision 2030 Discussion > > Dear Member, > > We wish to invite you for a discussion and broader understanding on how we can > work together and contribute to the development of the Vision 2030. The > discussion will be VISION 2030 : Catalyzing the Vision through ICT by Mr. > Francis Mwaura, E-gov Directorate and will take place on 21st November 2006, > 3:00pm, Jacaranda Hotel at the KICTANET Monthly meeting. The presentation is > meant to give members first hand information and provide a platform for > members to give input. > > We look forward having you join us at for this presentaion and also request > that you please RSVP your attendance to the undersigned for logistics purpose. > > Thank You > > Yours Faithfully, > Judy Kimiti > KICTANET > Tel: 4453671 / 2 > > Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com > _______________________________________________ > kictanet mailing list > kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke > http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet > > Please unsubscribe or change your options at > http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/mucheru%40wananchi.com _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Please unsubscribe or change your options at http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jkimiti01%40yahoo.co.uk ___________________________________________________________ All new Yahoo! Mail "The new Interface is stunning in its simplicity and ease of use." - PC Magazine http://uk.docs.yahoo.com/nowyoucan.html

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Vision 2030 Discussion
by Judy kimiti 12 Dec '06

12 Dec '06

Dear Member, We wish to invite you for a discussion and broader understanding on how we can work together and contribute to the development of the Vision 2030. The discussion will be VISION 2030 : Catalyzing the Vision through ICT by Mr. Francis Mwaura, E-gov Directorate and will take place on 21st November 2006, 3:00pm, Jacaranda Hotel at the KICTANET Monthly meeting. The presentation is meant to give members first hand information and provide a platform for members to give input. We look forward having you join us at for this presentaion and also request that you please RSVP your attendance to the undersigned for logistics purpose. Thank You Yours Faithfully, Judy Kimiti KICTANET Tel: 4453671 / 2 Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com

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ICT bill .....does it fit the bill?
by frank＠ace-media.net 11 Dec '06

11 Dec '06

I'd like to support Rebecca's point of view. A while back one lister asked to know what are the actual contents of the draft presented to the AG. Are listers in agreement with the version hosted on www.information.go.ke? Dated Feb 2006? Has the bill incorporated the recommendations by KIF and do we know that for a fact? Unless I have overlooked something, the version on information.go.ke, dated feb 06, does not expressly or comprehensively cover data protection, copyright and intellectual property issues - issues which I think are to e-commerce (and BPO and IT Outsourcing) what spark plugs and fuel are to an automobile engine. I hear that media owners are not in agreement with the proposed restrictions on cross-ownership and ownership of newspapers by radio and TV licence holders (Ahead of an election year, coupled with an anti-media stance from various quarters in government, perhaps some more questions should be raised to this as well). Thus, to expect a bill to be passed in record time may not necessarily be an indicator of parliament's competence. The debate envisaged on issues of broadcasting will only serve to delay its enactment, to the detriment of the ICT sector. Francis Hook From: Rebecca Wanjiku <rebeccawanjiku(a)yahoo.com> Subject: [Kictanet] eCommerce Legislation, so near and yet so far. To: Kenya ICT Policy - kictanet <kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke> Message-ID: <291576.79333.qm(a)web57710.mail.re3.yahoo.com> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1" Walu, strong as it maybe, it has taken ten years, i may have used strong words but in my opinion, the government hasnt shown much commitment apart from singing how ICTs can improve our lives and you are right, some bills have been passed in record time, yet one maybe tempted to think the government is very committed, but to what extent, thats just the way i see it!! Rebecca John Walubengo <jwalu(a)yahoo.com> wrote: Rebecca, Your comment ''...Kenya has no ICT law, doesn?t seem to care much about e-commerce whether in country or between Kenya and other countries''...may be abit on the stronger side. I believe the relevant Kenyan agencies both in Govt, Private Sector and Civil society do care and have made and continue to make effort towards a legalised eCommerce environment. The current Kenyan ICT policy does take cognisance of the significance that eCommerce has and the draft ICT Bill (2006) does make attempts to legalise this e-environment. What could be lacking is a mechanism for fast-tracking the issues i.e. escalating the time frame between Policy, Bill and Law. Indeed, the last bit - enacting law is the trickiest since it lies at the mercy of Parliamenterians (MPs)... Nevertheless, there could be interventions tailored to gain Parliamentary 'buy-in'. After all, they have been known to pass some Bills in record-time, why not the e-Bills? walu. -------------------------------------------------------------------- mail2web - Check your email from the web at http://mail2web.com/ .

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Fwd: [Stock-Detective News] Research Unit Launched
by Bill Kagai 09 Dec '06

09 Dec '06

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: info(a)circuitspackets.co.ke <info(a)circuitspackets.co.ke> Date: Dec 7, 2006 12:29 PM Subject: [Stock-Detective News] Research Unit Launched To: news(a)stock-detective.co.ke Following numerous requests by our readers for detailed analysis of various listed companies, stock-detective will now be offering our subscribers a customised package comprising price movement alerts as well as detailed analysis of the companies' performance, strategy and new products. We have now launched a Research Unit headed by Mr. Kingori Choto, a lawyer/researcher by profession and previously with Market Intelligence. To subscribe to this new service, please visit: www.stock-detective.co.ke/research With Kind Regards, Bildad Kagai MD - Circuits & Packets Communications Ltd Content & Training Partner - JKUAT E-Government Academy Suite B2, Tetu Apartments, State House Avenue P. O. Box 20311 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya Tel. 254 20 2728332 Fax. 254 20 2726965 URL. www.circuitspackets.co.ke URL. www.JKUATEgovAcademy.ac.ke URL. www.stock-detective.co.ke _______________________________________________ News mailing list News(a)stock-detective.co.ke http://www.stock-detective.co.ke:8080/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/news

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Re: [Kictanet] IS ICANN IMPORTANT?
by Florence Etta 07 Dec '06

07 Dec '06

Thanks Becky for this valuable and insightful piece. I would ask what can KICTANEt and or similar networks do about this. This is for me ois the bigger question. Cheers, FE Florence Etta P.O. Box 14285,00800 Westlands-Nairobi, Kenya Tel: Mobile + 254-733-621851 Terrestrial: + 254-20-7121506 Fax: + 254-20-7125732 Alternative Email:florence.etta@gmail.com ----- Original Message ---- From: Rebecca Wanjiku <rebeccawanjiku(a)yahoo.com> To: feanywhere(a)yahoo.co.uk Sent: Tuesday, 5 December, 2006 9:36:41 PM Subject: [Kictanet] IS ICANN IMPORTANT? PLAYING THE CATCH UP GAME- AFRICAN STYLE By Rebecca Wanjiku Paul Odhiambo is an ICT officer at the Ministry of Education in Kenya . He is used to the technical jargon and all issues relating to the information society. But attending the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) meeting is not that easy for Odhiambo. In some of the sessions, he finds himself in unfarmiliar territory. Why ? afterall he is a techie ! Because at the meetings, participants discuss about ICT laws and how they can be made responsive to people´s demands and privacies. For instance, during discussions on WHOIS, participants discuss issues on how much information should be available to the public and whether such information should be shared accross the sectors. Then there are other issues on the menu like security concerns and the usual business aspect of e-commerce. Legal issues are also discussed regarding applicable laws in case of cross country trade. For example, if importing a car from Dubai , if it’s damaged at sea and you bought it online, which courts can you seek redress? Kenyan court or Dubai . Odhiambo may find himself in unfamiliar territory because Kenya has no ICT law, doesn’t seem to care much about e-commerce whether in country or between Kenya and other countries. Odhiambo´s story is probably the story of many African participants at ICANN meetings. Latin America, North America, Europe and Asia seem to be operating on a different level compared to Africa . While the rest are discussing progressive issues, African delegates can only watch and say, we have our issues- access, and policy formulation. But for how long will Africa cling on to the problems as an excuse? Take for example the issue of access, those who were in the ICT industry will maybe confirm that some African heads have sang this song of the digital divide, lack of access and lack of money. But the leaders have gyrated and swung their hips at the prospect of development that ICT holds. Whilst the question of infrastructure and finance maybe understood, what about policy formulation, can that be understood too? Many of us stay home and wonder why ICANN meetings are important. Some may view it as a travel club or a playground for techies. While you wonder what label to give them, these guys are making policies that could affect you. What are you doing about it? Ends Rebecca Wanjiku, journalist, p.o box 33515, Nairobi.00600 Kenya. Tel. 254 720 318 925 blog:http://beckyit.blogspot.com/ Want to start your own business? Learn how on Yahoo! Small Business._______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet(a)kictanet.or.ke http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Please unsubscribe or change your options at http://kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/feanywhere%40yahoo.co.uk Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com

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KICTANets Monthly Minutes and KDN Presentation
by Judy kimiti 07 Dec '06

07 Dec '06

Dear Member, Please find attached the minutes of the Planning Meeting that took place on 9th November 2006 and the KDN Presentation by Kai Wulff . Thank You. Yours Faithfully Judy Kimiti KICTANet Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com Send instant messages to your online friends http://uk.messenger.yahoo.com ___________________________________________________________ All new Yahoo! Mail "The new Interface is stunning in its simplicity and ease of use." - PC Magazine http://uk.docs.yahoo.com/nowyoucan.html

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Women in ICTs in South Africa - final reports released
by A. Wanjira Munyua 04 Dec '06

04 Dec '06

A comprehensive study on the status of women in high-level ICTs in South Africa has recently been completed. A separate Manual of Possible Interventions has been produced alongside the status report - this maps out six possible programmes with a breakdown of activities and possible role players to take these actions forward. A third report shares international experiences, with particular emphasis on Finland. This has provided useful insights for consideration in addressing South Africa's needs. The three documents can be accessed at: http://women-in-ict.meraka.csir.co.za <http://women-in-ict.meraka.csir.co.za/> The report looks at how girls and women are progressing (or not) in the education system and the workplace. It presents gender-disaggregated data on the current situation and reflects on the perceptions of women in ICTs, including those in leadership positions. There has been some improvement in the participation of women in the sector, but the numbers are still low and increasing the levels of participation requires urgent attention. Various support mechanisms are in place to help women in the ICT sector but they are fragmented and uncoordinated. Recommendations for addressing these needs have been expanded in the Manual of Interventions. The work was the result of a South African-Finnish partnership between the Meraka Institute (CSIR), icteum consulting and the University of Oulu, Finland (Kajaani Consortium). Other South African collaborators include the Human Sciences Research Council, WomensNet and the Tshwane University of Technology. The study was funded by the Embassy of Finland, South Africa. For further details contact: Tina James (project leader) icteum consulting tjames(a)intekom.co.za Tel: +27 12 346-8264 Ronel Smith Meraka Institute Rsmith2(a)csir.co.za -- A. Wanjira Munyua National Coordinator, Catalysing Access to ICTs in Africa (CATIA) Association for Progressive Communications (APC) alice(a)apc.org http://www.apc.org http://www.catia.ws Cell: +254 733 731074

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TAKE BACK THE TECH! Reclaiming ICTs to End Violence Against Women
by A. Wanjira Munyua 04 Dec '06

04 Dec '06

Please help disseminate. Apologies for crossposting *********************************************************** TAKE BACK THE TECH! Reclaiming ICTs to End Violence Against Women www.takebackthetech.net 25 November - 10 December *********************************************************** Day 8: Digital Storytelling be heard - tell your story --------------------------- Listen to survivors of violence against women take up multimedia technology, and tell their own powerful and transformative stories. Digital storytelling by Silence Speaks [www.silencespeaks.org] is an initiative that makes it possible for survivors and witnesses of violence to come together in small groups, reflect on their gender training and experiences of abuse, and tell their stories in their own words, sounds and images. Few opportunities exist for survivors to tell their stories in their own words. Silence Speaks fills this gap by connecting survivors and witness of abuse with their creativity and making their voices the centerpiece of violence prevention and social justice efforts. Bearing witness to these stories moves the issue from the individual to the collective, and offers hope for ending the violence. Twelve powerful stories are showcased on Take Back The Tech!, in partnership between Silence Speaks and APC Women's Programme. Listen deeply. [www.takebackthetech.net/actions/storytelling.htm] ************* Action Day 8 ************* A study [http://www.stopvaw.org/Prevalence_of_Domestic_Violence.html] based on 50 surveys from around the world shows that at least 1 in every 3 women has been beaten, coerced into sex, or abused in her lifetime. Depressing statistics. But at the same time, think of all the women that you know. Grrls and women that you have chatted with on the bus, at some party, waiting for the elevator, at a work function, distant relatives, their partners.. There are so many survivors amongst us. 1 in every 3 women whom we come across has experienced targeted and senseless violence; and they are just. fine. We walk amongst unnamed sheroes; with stories of tenacity, courage and everyday survival. Action begins from reality. Tell your story. Use technology to amplify your voice. If the rabble is loud in its protest, if 1 in 3 women speak their case, then reality might start to look a little less ridiculous. . Go to "Talk Tech & VAW" [http://www.takebackthetech.net/talktech.htm] . Click on "Share Your Story" . Start telling yours! -- Take Back The Tech Day 8: Digital Storytelling be heard - tell your story www.takebackthetech.net _______________________________________________ Grace mailing list Grace(a)lists.apcwomen.org http://lists.apcwomen.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/grace

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Re: [Kictanet] [Fibre-for-africa] Whats i have being talking of as a public private partnership in ownership of the critical infrastructur
by Eric Osiakwan 04 Dec '06

04 Dec '06

Dear All, In my rush to attend to some emergency yesterday i did not read over so ended up with french (not good enough french for Bill to read.....:-) instead of english so please allow me to come again. Also this is being monitored on the KICTANET list so i have made an extension to them as well as to the AfrISPA list on which this is taking space. Anriette, The principle is the same however since EASSy was spanning multiple jurisdictions, it waranted multiple platforms for the stock market activity but the Kenyan one (TEAMS) is a single domain so in my mind the question should be "would it make sense for it to trade on one exchange or the multiple approach would generate much scale in terms of the financial lifting that is expected and the activities thereoff?" In someway Brian seems to suggest a multiple approach but i have a knowledge deficit of the East African Stock markets co- operatin and how this may work. Am aware that SWOPNET in Tanzania is similar to KICTANET and iNETWORK in Uganda also has the same semblance so if KICTANET liases with those camps we could get some country info on the dynamics at play or someone from the lists could feed us with some knowledge (at least am interested in knowing.....:-) YES, it looks like a race (NOT A RAT RACE...:-) but the precedent of very low cost bandwidth and non-discriminatory practise must be a guiding light. Eric here NB: Bill, thanks for the heads up. For those who are seeing this for the first time, below is MY french version of the english rendition above so if you dont understand the french dont worry, just stick to the english and you would not have missed anything at all.....:-) On 27 Nov 2006, at 20:06, Eric M.K Osiakwan wrote: > Anriette, > > The principle is the same however since EASSy was spanning multiple > jurisdictions then it warantted multiple platforms for the stock > market activity but the Kenyan one is a single domain so in my mind > should be that would is make sense for it to trade on one exchange > or the multiple approach would generate much scale in terms of the > financial lifting the expected activities? > > YES, it looks like arade but the precedent of very low cost and non- > discriminatory practise must be a guiding light. > > Eric here > > > On 27 Nov 2006, at 22:19, Anriette Esterhuysen wrote: > >> Dear Eric >> >> A group of us APC people actually discussed your idea quite >> intensively a >> while ago. >> >> The one difference between what is happening here, and what you >> propose, >> is that the Kenyan initiative will involve only one stock >> exchange.... so, if the >> IPO continues, it will be listed in Kenya... as far as I know. >> >> Your proposal would have involved the 'entity' listing on multiple >> stock >> exchanges.... that would have been much more complicated. >> >> Seeing these new financial models emerge is very interesting. And >> it does >> feel a bit like a race... whose cable will light up first? Who >> will sell the >> cheapest bandwidth? Any bets? >> >> Anriette >> >> >>> Folks, >>> >>> Below is exactly what i have being chanting as a way forward in the >>> ownership of the infrastructure; The Kenya Government will have a 40 >>> per cent holding in the project, Etisalat 20% and the remaining 40% >>> will go to investors in the East African region. The Government has >>> said it will organise an IPO on the Kenyan Stock Exchange. Several >>> Kenyan companies have expressed interest and one said that the >>> Government had told them it would "guarantee their loan". The >>> details of the finance package have not yet been settled but it is >>> unclear where the Kenyan Government will raise its 40% from. Will >>> the >>> World Bank simply shift a portion of its EASSy funding to the new >>> project as many think likely? >>> >>> NB; From this week's Balancing Act, full story below for your >>> pleasure. >>> >>> Thank God the Kenya are experimenting with this approach where >>> government owns part, private sector owns part, educational >>> institutions should also own part, CSO owns part through IPO on the >>> stock market. >>> >>> The Kenya government can actually raise the 40% from government >>> bonds >>> and am not an expert on the stock market discipline of shares or >>> bonds but this is where the financial experts need to come out with >>> innovative solutions that can help raise much of this money locally >>> and it is possible. >>> >>> In the attached paper which is an output of the great work Rahul >>> Tongia did with some colleagues and little input from me, it is >>> clear >>> that we could actually wire Africa up with fiber to the most >>> population densed centres for a billion dollars whcih means if every >>> African put a dollar on the table we could wire Africa up with fiber >>> and 50 percent of that dark fiber already exist - what does that >>> mean >>> to you as an African? >>> >>> >>> You Kenyans are showing the way and even it it does not work you >>> would be know for showing us how this model is not workable and then >>> we can try another. We Africans must try new ways of doing these >>> things and make our own mistakes and find our own solutions to our >>> problems but learn to avoid the mistakes of the Americans, Europeans >>> and Asians. Thank God for this BOLD move, it is commendable. >>> >>> >>> TOP STORY: KENYA BEGINS THE COUNTDOWN TO CHEAP INTERNATIONAL FIBRE >>> ____________________________________________________________________ >>> _ >>> >>> It´s like waiting for a matatu. You wait for ages and none come >>> along. But just when you´re about to give up hope, three come along >>> at the same time, all trying to come to a screaming halt in front of >>> you. Kenya now has three (or more) potential international fibre >>> projects that could be complete within 12 months. Each one is loudly >>> proclaiming that it will deliver cheap international bandwidth. >>> Russell Southwood took the temperature in the market last week about >>> what the impact of this bandwidth will be upon the market. >>> >>> The Kenya Government has signed an MOU to build a fibre link to >>> Fujairah >>> in the UAE currently costed at Ksh5.7 billion. The construction and >>> supply contract will be awarded early next year and the project, >>> dubbed The East African Marine System (Teams), will be ready by >>> November, according to a joint statement issued by both parties from >>> Dubai. Many in the sector believe that it will be more like 19 >>> months >>> or more before completion. >>> >>> The Kenya Government will have a 40 per cent holding in the project, >>> Etisalat 20% and the remaining 40% will go to investors in the East >>> African region. The Government has said it will organise an IPO >>> on the >>> Kenyan Stock Exchange. Several Kenyan companies have expressed >>> interest and one said that the Government had told them it would >>> "guarantee their loan". The details of the finance package have >>> not yet been settled but it is unclear where the Kenyan Government >>> will raise its 40% from. Will the World Bank simply shift a >>> portion of >>> its EASSy funding to the new project as many think likely? >>> >>> The Government´s commitment to a 12 month schedule is a bold move >>> but one that must lay them open to a certain amount of >>> scepticism. The >>> tender for expressions of interest was only issued 2 weeks ago and >>> Government timetabling is notoriously slow compared to the private >>> sector. Apparently the Private Secretary has been telling interested >>> parties that the Government wants prices comparable to those to be >>> found in India in 12 months time. This benchmark has been set in >>> order >>> that Kenya will be able to compete in the international outsourcing >>> market. >>> >>> Apparently a number of interested parties said that they would >>> put up >>> all the money to build it if they could have a monopoly and he sent >>> them away disappointed. But more worryingly one interested party >>> told >>> us that it could only get involved if it also allowed Telkom >>> Kenya to >>> be a shareholder. >>> >>> The next international fibre project is KDN´s and it has now signed >>> its contract with Flag Telecom. Its link from Mombasa will terminate >>> in an undersea junction in international waters off of the Yemen. It >>> says the link will be fully operational in the first quarter of >>> 2008, >>> just 15 months away. The company believes that it will come to >>> market >>> with capacity at $500 per mbps pm but that the price of bandwidth >>> will >>> go up to those wanting to invest as time passes. In other words, for >>> those who commit early prices will be lowest and for those who >>> come in >>> late, prices will go higher. It also stresses that its landing >>> station >>> at Mombasa will allow other carriers to co-locate there charging >>> only >>> electricity and services at cost. >>> >>> So this leaves the third project EASSy looking as if it will be the >>> third runner. NEPAD appears to have made little more progress on >>> persuading more African Governments to sign its political protocol. >>> And whilst the members of the EASSy consortium (that still includes >>> KDN and Telkom Kenya) are still moving things forward, there >>> remains a >>> disconnect between the political and commercial ends of the project. >>> If both of the above projects go ahead, there is clearly much less >>> need to build the Mombasa-Djibouti section of the route and it >>> has to >>> be said that both of the above projects have better international >>> connection points. >>> >>> As if three were not enough, Ethiopia´s ETC has now had its >>> international fibre connection working effectively for two months >>> via >>> Port Sudan and Saudi Arabia. But because it is landlocked and it had >>> endless fruitless arguments with Djibouti Telecom over control of a >>> possible fibre link, it wants to find a second international fibre >>> connection. Therefore it is in serious conversations with both of >>> Kenya´s fibre network operators about connecting to the Mombasa >>> links when they are ready. If this goes ahead, both it and Kenya >>> will >>> then have two international fibre links. >>> >>> Because the process of getting the international fibre to Kenya has >>> been both confusing and "on-off", everyone in the market >>> (including customers) have understandably not really grasped the >>> impact of its arrival on their businesses. Until now ISPs and >>> satellite resellers have largely been in the businesses of living on >>> the margin they make between buying and selling bandwidth. >>> >>> These margins have been kept high as they have concentrated on >>> selling >>> to comparatively few customers. Ironically it has been a high-price, >>> low volume business where their primary commodity - bandwidth - >>> has always been in short supply, not least because some of them >>> increased their margin by contending it as much as possible. This >>> has >>> meant that bandwidth quality is often variable at best for those not >>> paying "top dollar" for a premium service. >>> >>> If you argue that international fibre prices should be low price, >>> high >>> volume, then the national business model changes: what´s sauce for >>> the goose is sauce for the gander. Bandwidth becomes cheap and >>> plentiful at a sub $1000 threshold. The margins that can then be >>> charged make it difficult for those who are not operating at >>> volume to >>> stay in business. >>> >>> However it does now open up opportunities for new services, content >>> and applications that can be sold to customers who should now be >>> paying European prices for real broadband connections (1-2 meg >>> upwards) rather than the paltry 64 kbps they are currently >>> receiving. >>> There are at least 500,000 households in Kenya that are at an income >>> level that make them potential targets for broadband. It would take >>> only half of those households to sign up for there to be the >>> beginnings of a very different market. >>> >>> The real sign that the market has not "got it" is that some key >>> ISPs are not passing on the information about these soon-to-be cheap >>> prices but are seeking to protect their high margins by telling >>> customers higher prices. A heads-up, guys. The sector is a >>> village and >>> news will get round quickly and we´ll encourage the circulation of >>> this price information. The market´s about to change, get ready to >>> change with it. >>> >>> At the national level, there is now a third source of fibre >>> capacity. >>> Jamii Telecommunications has signed an agreement with the Kenya >>> Light >>> and Power Company (KPLC) to sell an STM1´s worth of its fibre >>> capacity in Nairobi and Mombasa, with KPLC saying that it will >>> triple >>> its capacity shortly. Two other companies - CTN and Cable Vision - >>> have been granted a licence to sell KPLC´s capacity and it is >>> telling (in terms of the argument above) that both are in the video >>> download and pay-TV business. Not so far afield, Tanzanian power >>> utility TANESCO is currently building out fibre capacity and has >>> invited bids to sell this capacity. Again KDN is poised to make a >>> fibre connection to Tanzania. >>> >>> However a recent ping on the Kampala-Nairobi route shows that >>> neither >>> KDN nor Telkom Kenya has got its fibre route operational. KDN is >>> promising it will be operational by the end of first quarter 2007 >>> and >>> that prices will be 20% cheaper. >>> >>> Elsewhere in the market, the new VoIP operators are finding it >>> difficult >>> to get interconnection agreements and to get proper service from >>> interconnect service providers. Telkom Kenya is charging absurdly >>> high >>> prices but has at least reached interconnect agreements. >>> Nevertheless >>> the new fixed wireless operators - Flashcom and Popote - are >>> having difficulties: customers are unable to receive or make >>> calls to >>> certain countries. Apparently anyone who calls a customer number of >>> these fixed wireless operators from Germany gets a number >>> unobtainable. >>> >>> Access Kenya´s Yello VoIP service has been aimed at corporates and >>> has attracted 250 customers who generate 120,000 minutes a month. >>> But >>> it has had difficulty getting interconnection agreements with the >>> mobile operators. It made a complaint to regulator CCK in April and >>> became so frustrated that it said it would run an advertisement >>> publicising the position. Safaricom came back to the table but >>> Celtel >>> refuses to enter discussions, saying that it will do so in its own >>> time. >>> >>> Kenyan ISPs are under heavy pressure from all the new operators. >>> Flashcom and Popote are taking more money from data than voice at >>> the >>> moment as customers are primarily signing up for cheaper Internet >>> access. Also the introduction of EDGE services by Safaricom is >>> eating >>> into their high-end customers: one ISP´s CEO admitted privately that >>> he was losing hundreds of customers a month to these new >>> competitors. >>> The challenge for everyone in the market will be whether they can >>> take >>> the soon-to-arrive cheaper international bandwidth and use it to >>> transform the market. >>> >>> >>> Eric M.K Osiakwan >>> Executive Secretary >>> AfrISPA (www.afrispa.org) >>> Tel: + 233.21.258800 >>> Fax: + 233.21.258811 >>> Cell: + 233.244.386792 >>> Handle: eosiakwan >>> Snail Mail: Pmb 208, Accra-North >>> Office: BusyInternet - 42 Ring Road Central, Accra-North >>> Blog: http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/eric/ >>> Slang: "Tomorrow Now" >>> >>> >>> >>> >>> >> >> >> >> ------------------------------------------------------ >> Anriette Esterhuysen, Executive Director >> Association for Progressive Communications >> anriette(a)apc.org >> http://www.apc.org >> PO Box 29755, Melville, South Africa. 2109 >> Tel. 27 11 726 1692 >> Fax 27 11 726 1692 >> >> _______________________________________________ >> Fibre-for-africa mailing list >> Fibre-for-africa(a)lists.apc.org >> http://lists.apc.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/fibre-for-africa >> > > Eric M.K Osiakwan > ICT Consultant and Journalist > Tel: + 233.21.258800 > Fax: + 233.21.258811 > Cell: + 233.244.386792 > Handle: eosiakwan > Snail Mail: Pmb 208, Accra-North > Office: BusyInternet - 42 Ring Road Central, Accra-North > Blog: http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/eric/ > Slang: "Tomorrow Now" > > > _______________________________________________ > Fibre-for-africa mailing list > Fibre-for-africa(a)lists.apc.org > http://lists.apc.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/fibre-for-africa Eric M.K Osiakwan Executive Secretary AfrISPA (www.afrispa.org) Tel: + 233.21.258800 Fax: + 233.21.258811 Cell: + 233.244.386792 Handle: eosiakwan Snail Mail: Pmb 208, Accra-North Office: BusyInternet - 42 Ring Road Central, Accra-North Blog: http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/eric/ Slang: "Tomorrow Now"

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Infrastructure Financing for TEAMS through the Capital Markets
by Bill Kagai 30 Nov '06

30 Nov '06

[Summary of TEAMS financing discussion on www.stock-detective.co.ke] At a recent seminar hosted by the Nairobi Stock Exchange, options for infrastructure financing through the capital markets were comprehensively discussed by various financial experts. It is worthwhile to consider various financing options for the East African Marine System or Teams project, a fiber optic line linking Mombasa to Fujaira, in the context of various options for infrastructure financing through the capital markets discussed at the seminar. A strong case was put forward for funding for infrastructure projects in Kenya through the NSE. Among the experts who made a pitch for the idea were NSE chairman Jimnah Mbaru, NSE CEO Chris Mwebesa, Suntra Investment Bank chairman James Murigu, and IFC Operations Officer for Financial Markets, Ndiritu Muriithi. Infrastructure financing through the capital markets is still in its infancy stages in Kenya. Yet there is a huge opportunity for companies and government agencies to raise money cheaply to build roads and power dams through bonds and shares at the Nairobi Stock Exchange given that the current government development budget stands at around Ksh. 70 billion. The cost of completing the Machakos-Limuru dual carriage section of the Mombasa-Busia highway alone is estimated to cost Ksh. 108 billion. This means that the government has to find alternative sources of funding (other than donor funding) to meet the massive shortfall in funding for infrastructure projects. The government has indicated that it will consider raising money through an IPO to finance the Teams project. It recently signed an MOU with Etisalat of Dubai to implement the Ksh. 5.7 billion project. The government will hold a 40 per cent stake in the project, Etisalat 20 per cent and the remaining 40 per cent will be offered to investors in the East African region. The government has set an ambitious date for the completion of the project by November next year. If the government proceeds with the IPO as indicated, the project is certain to generate considerable interest among investors given the potentially high returns and profits from the link once activated. But the question still begs an answer: why has infrastructure financing through the capital markets been slow to develop in Kenya even with the recent expansion of the stock market? In other words, why haven't institutions like Kenya Airports Authority, Kenya Pipeline, National Housing Corporation, to mention just a few, been issuing to the public? Experts cite bureaucracy and lack of concise policy as the main bottlenecks to infrastructure financing through the domestic capital market. Mr. Muriithi is of the view that although the demand for infrastructure financing is huge, policy questions on issues like the role of the capital market in the process are not fully settled. He added that discussions are still on-going and that technical issues such as the financing structure, type of instruments and so on, were yet to be refined. He further noted that state owned enterprise have to obtain approval from Treasury to borrow money from the capital. Where such approval is not forthcoming especially considering red-tape and other internal bottlenecks, the opportunity to source funds cheaply from the investing public is squandered. Mr. Mbaru gave the example of East African Portland Cement which wanted to raise Ksh 2 billion through the capital markets to extend its line to Western Kenya and Uganda but shelved the plan after it failed to get Treasury approval. Mr. Murigu on his part argued that many SOEs went shopping abroad for financing while they could raise funds for infrastructure projects locally and at a cheaper cost. If the government is to successfully push through an IPO by mid-2007, Treasury approval will then have to come fast. Otherwise, the project could end up in the bog of red-tape as Treasury mandarins dillydally over approval. In seeking to raise financing for the project through the capital market, the government has a variety of options to consider. And critical here will be the manner in which the government structures the deal for investors. Mr. Mwebesa said of the market's ability to absorb infrastructure-backed instruments, that "if properly conceptualized and structured with detailed information on the specific infrastructure project, the capital markets will absorb the same". If the government chooses the IPO way, then it will have to create a special purpose vehicle whose shares it will then offer to the public. According to Mr. Mwebesa once such government-driven SPVs are listed in the NSE, bonds for specific infrastructure projects can then be issued by the SPV. Kenyans can then invest in such bonds through various vehicles such as pension funds, co-operative societies, insurance companies and collective investment schemes (companies or trusts created to mobilize investment funds from individuals). Pension funds are a good way of mobilizing investment in infrastructure bonds since the long-term financing needs of infrastructure projects match the long-term liability profiles of pension/retirement benefit schemes. Infrastructure or asset-backed bonds can provide income for retirees a few years down the line and are thus a viable investment option for pension fund managers. However, the law needs to be changed to facilitate such initiatives. In addition certain policy and tax incentives are needed to boost private sector participation. Mr. Mbaru proposes that income derived by investors from infrastructure-backed instruments be exempted from withholding tax to make them more attractive. He also proposes a 2-3 year grace period before interest payments to investors or alternatively the issue of zero-coupon bonds (bonds issued at a discount to the price and principal and interest paid lump-sum upon maturity) to finance such deals. There is no doubt that the Teams project can be financed through the NSE. It is up to the government to speed up the creation of an SPV as well as Treasury approval and also give investors an attractive value proposition. This is not to mention that public awareness of the viability of the Teams project and its importance to Kenya's ICT sector and the economy as a whole is very vital and a condition precedent to the success of the project. The government may also want to consider a cross-listing of the SPV once put in motion now that integration of the three stock exchanges is well under way. -- With Kind Regards, Bildad Kagai MD - Circuits & Packets Communications Ltd Content & Training Partner - JKUAT E-Government Academy Suite B2, Tetu Apartments, State House Avenue P. O. Box 20311 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya Tel. 254 20 2728332 Fax. 254 20 2726965 Cell. 254 724 226600 URL. www.circuitspackets.co.ke URL. www.JKUATEgovAcademy.ac.ke

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Fwd: [Stock-Detective News] Investing in the Teams Project
by Bill Kagai 29 Nov '06

29 Nov '06

---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: info(a)circuitspackets.co.ke <info(a)circuitspackets.co.ke> Date: Nov 29, 2006 12:01 PM Subject: [Stock-Detective News] Investing in the Teams Project To: news(a)stock-detective.co.ke Posted by Admin on www.stock-detective.co.ke Investing in the Teams Project On 6th November, 2006, the Government of Kenya through the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK) advertised an 'Expression of Interest' (EOI) for a 'Lead Financial Arranger' for the 'East Africa Marine System' (TEAMS) project. The EOI further read that ICT sector growth is limited by inadequate international connectivity and over-reliance on expensive satellite connectivity. After exploring other international connectivity alternatives with no tangible results realized to date, the situation compelled the Government to consider facilitating the construction of a submarine cable system with a landing port in Mombasa to be established through a special purpose vehicle (SPV). The 'Lead Financial Arranger' is thus required to facilitate an elaborate financing mechanism for this project. On 18th November 2006, the Government announced that Telkom Kenya had signed a Sh5.7 billion pact with Etisalat of Dubai paving the way for the construction of an undersea cable linking Mombasa to Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates. The construction and supply contract will be awarded early next year and the project, dubbed The East African Marine System (Teams), will be ready by November, according to a joint statement issued by both parties from Dubai. Kenya will have a 40 per cent holding in the project, Etisalat 20 and the remaining will go to investors in the East African region. There is no doubt that this will be a good investment with good returns for those who invest in the Teams project. The project will also open up opportunities such as business process outsourcing and electronic commerce for other sectors such as tourism. A significant chunk of the financing is expected to be realized through the stock market making it a first where capital to finance a project is generated from the investing public. As part of our 'Intelligent Investor Series' we invite you to submit your comments by clicking on the comment button on the home page of www.stock-detective.co.ke . We would like to know your opinion on the project and the fundamentals that might compel you to put in funds in this kind of a venture. The Stock-Detective will then develop a comprehensive report that will be shared on this website. www.stock-detective.co.ke _______________________________________________ News mailing list News(a)stock-detective.co.ke http://www.stock-detective.co.ke:8080/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/news -- -- With Kind Regards, Bildad Kagai MD - Circuits & Packets Communications Ltd Content & Training Partner - JKUAT E-Government Academy Suite B2, Tetu Apartments, State House Avenue P. O. Box 20311 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya Tel. 254 20 2728332 Fax. 254 20 2726965 Cell. 254 724 226600 URL. www.circuitspackets.co.ke URL. www.JKUATEgovAcademy.ac.ke

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Re: [Kictanet] [Fibre-for-africa] Whats i have being talking of as a public private partnership in ownership of the critical infrastructur
by Eric Osiakwan 29 Nov '06

29 Nov '06

Thanks for the feed-in, Bill. You raise a very genuine and important concern, which is how would the populace react to an IT stock which they are not familiar with given the track record of similar stocks? Was African Lakes on NSE as well or only on LSE? Eric here On 28 Nov 2006, at 15:38, Bill Kagai wrote: > > Trading in one stock exchange does not complicate matters because > institutional/foreign investors can still buy shares through the > NSE. One good thing is that the NSE is the dominat exchange in EA > with 51 listed companies and 3 or so cross listed in Dar and Kampala. > > Kampala has only 8 quoted companies and about a similar number in > Dar which will soon be trading under one exchange in a couple opf > years. > > The other interesting challenge will be how the stock is embraced > considering that the only IT stock ever listed (African Lakes) > collapsed after a while, whilst the anticipated Wananchi IPO has > not taken off yet. Basically, we are yet to see how the market will > react to IT related stocks. See the following links on the pilot > stock-detective.co.ke website we have been developing. > > http://www.stock-detective.co.ke > > and also on a discussion posted regarding Telkom upcoming listing.. > > http://www.stock-detective.co.ke/public-discussion-forum/public- > discussion-forum/post200609202612783179 > > > -- > -- > With Kind Regards, > Bildad Kagai > MD - Circuits & Packets Communications Ltd > Content & Training Partner - JKUAT E-Government Academy > Suite B2, Tetu Apartments, State House Avenue > P. O. Box 20311 - 00200 > Nairobi, Kenya > Tel. 254 20 2728332 > Fax. 254 20 2726965 > Cell. 254 724 226600 > URL. www.circuitspackets.co.ke > URL. www.JKUATEgovAcademy.ac.ke > _______________________________________________ > Fibre-for-africa mailing list > Fibre-for-africa(a)lists.apc.org > http://lists.apc.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/fibre-for-africa Eric M.K Osiakwan Executive Secretary AfrISPA (www.afrispa.org) Tel: + 233.21.258800 Fax: + 233.21.258811 Cell: + 233.244.386792 Handle: eosiakwan Snail Mail: Pmb 208, Accra-North Office: BusyInternet - 42 Ring Road Central, Accra-North Blog: http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/eric/ Slang: "Tomorrow Now"

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DOT Capacity Building Training in Nairobi
by Joseph Maruti 28 Nov '06

28 Nov '06

DOT is running a youth and ICT capacity building program. See attached flyer. Those that have young friends/relatives that fit this profile and are available for the January intake should have them apply. Regards Maruti -- Joseph Maruti Country Director Digital Opportunity Trust (DOT) Kenya <http://www.kenya.globalnetcorps.org> www.kenya.globalnetcorps.org <http://www.dotrust.org> www.dotrust.org p: +254 20 6751385 m: +254 725 153971 e: <mailto:jmaruti@globalnetcorps.org> jmaruti(a)globalnetcorps.org Cause, Measure, Share

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CALL FOR PROPOSALS FOR ICT PROJECTS FOR FUNDING BY THE DIGITAL SOLIDARITY FUND
by alice＠apc.org 28 Nov '06

28 Nov '06

Dear All, This was advertised on the papers, but for those who did not see it, here goes! best regards alice -------------------------------------- CALL FOR PROPOSALS FOR ICT PROJECTS FOR FUNDING BY THE DIGITAL SOLIDARITY FUND The Global Digital Solidarity Fund (DSF) is a financing foundation based in Geneva, Switzerland. The objective of the fund is to transform the digital divide into digital opportunities to promote peace, sustainable development, democracy, transparency and good governance. The Government of Kenya, through the Communications Commission of Kenya (CCK), is one of DSF’s founding members. .DSF PROJECTS: As a financing foundation, DSF does not establish large infrastructure, but subsidizes community-based projects, within the framework of a given national policy with a view to creating new activities, new jobs and, in the long term, new markets. The DSF works in partnership with institutions and programmes, thus capitalizing on their networks and know how in responding to local development needs pertaining to the ICT sector. Based on clearly defined criteria, the DSF supports three main areas of activity: i. Education, professional training and health ii. ICT support services to local administration iii. Creation of new activities, new employment, new revenue and new markets The DSF, through the CCK, is inviting interested organizations to submit ICT related project proposals, for funding consideration. To be eligible for DSF funding, the projects must: i. aim at developing good use of ICTs within local communities excluded from information and communication networks; ii. be a community development project making use of information technology, amounting to less than 500,000 euros, over one or several years, in the framework of Kenya’s national policy and addressing the insolvent demand; iii. be adapted to the real needs of the population and conditions in the field, respectful to local know-how and readily replicable in other communities. iv. be based on public sector/private sector/civil society partnerships, ensure traceability of its financial backing and benefit from at least one other source of financing. v. Target in priority women’s associations or groups with groups with specific needs (youth, people with disabilities, etc) ; vi. involve south-south cooperation; vii. Not entail the acquisition or creation of large and expensive infrastructures; viii. Operate and be supervised by recognized organizations in the field of development management; ix. Already have been subject to a feasibility study evaluating the project’s risks and opportunities; x. Develop local content to meet the needs of local populations; xi. Make use, when possible, of micro-credit strategies in order to promote local entrepreneurial spirit; Interested organizations with projects that meet the specified requirements are invited to download the DSF application forms from the CCK website www.cck.go.ke or collect the forms from the Competition, Tariffs and Market Analysis (CTMA) Division of the Commission on weekdays during official working hours. . Duly completed forms should be submitted together with the relevant documents in a plain sealed envelope, clearly marked – ‘ICT Project Proposal for DSF Funding’ – through the address below or placed in the Tender Box situated on the ground floor of the CCK Headquarter building so as to reach on or before 30th November 2006. The Commission will subsequently forward the proposals to the Digital Solidarity Fund for consideration. DSF will contact the selected firms directly. The Director-General Communications Commission of Kenya P.O. Box 14448 Nairobi 00800 Tel: +254 20 4242000 Fax: +254 20 4451866 Email: info(a)cck.go.ke For more details about DSF please visit their website: www.digital-solidarity.org A. Wanjira Munyua National Coordinator, Catalysing Access to ICTs in Africa (CATIA) Association for Progressive Communications (APC) alice(a)apc.org http://www.apc.org http://www.catia.ws

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Re: [Kictanet] [Fibre-for-africa] Whats i have being talking of as a public private partnership in ownership of the critical infrastructur
by Bill Kagai 28 Nov '06

28 Nov '06

Trading in one stock exchange does not complicate matters because institutional/foreign investors can still buy shares through the NSE. One good thing is that the NSE is the dominant exchange in EA with 51 listed companies and 3 or so cross listed in Dar and Kampala. Kampala has only 8 quoted companies and about a similar number in Dar which will soon be trading under one exchange in a couple of years. The other interesting challenge will be how the stock is embraced considering that the only IT stock ever listed (African Lakes) collapsed after a while, whilst the anticipated Wananchi IPO has not taken off yet. Basically, we are yet to see how the market will react to IT related stocks. See the following links on the pilot stock-detective.co.ke website we have been developing. http://www.stock-detective.co.ke and also on a discussion posted regarding Telkom upcoming listing.. http://www.stock-detective.co.ke/public-discussion-forum/public-discussion-… -- -- With Kind Regards, Bildad Kagai MD - Circuits & Packets Communications Ltd Content & Training Partner - JKUAT E-Government Academy Suite B2, Tetu Apartments, State House Avenue P. O. Box 20311 - 00200 Nairobi, Kenya Tel. 254 20 2728332 Fax. 254 20 2726965 Cell. 254 724 226600 URL. www.circuitspackets.co.ke URL. www.JKUATEgovAcademy.ac.ke <http://www.jkuategovacademy.ac.ke/>

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Fw: [Fibre-for-africa] Whats i have being talking of as a publicprivate partnership in ownership of the critical infrastructur
by alice＠apc.org 27 Nov '06

27 Nov '06

Hi all, Interesting discussions on the APC EASSY list see below. For those not subscribed to this list and would like to participate in the ongoing discussions please let me know best regards alice ----- Original Message ----- From: "Anriette Esterhuysen" <anriette(a)apc.org> To: "APC - Private list for use by EASSY Workshop Participants" <fibre-for-africa(a)lists.apc.org> Sent: Monday, November 27, 2006 10:19 PM Subject: Re: [Fibre-for-africa] Whats i have being talking of as a publicprivate partnership in ownership of the critical infrastructur Dear Eric A group of us APC people actually discussed your idea quite intensively a while ago. The one difference between what is happening here, and what you propose, is that the Kenyan initiative will involve only one stock exchange.... so, if the IPO continues, it will be listed in Kenya... as far as I know. Your proposal would have involved the 'entity' listing on multiple stock exchanges.... that would have been much more complicated. Seeing these new financial models emerge is very interesting. And it does feel a bit like a race... whose cable will light up first? Who will sell the cheapest bandwidth? Any bets? Anriette > Folks, > > Below is exactly what i have being chanting as a way forward in the > ownership of the infrastructure; The Kenya Government will have a 40 > per cent holding in the project, Etisalat 20% and the remaining 40% > will go to investors in the East African region. The Government has > said it will organise an IPO on the Kenyan Stock Exchange. Several > Kenyan companies have expressed interest and one said that the > Government had told them it would "guarantee their loan". The > details of the finance package have not yet been settled but it is > unclear where the Kenyan Government will raise its 40% from. Will the > World Bank simply shift a portion of its EASSy funding to the new > project as many think likely? > > NB; From this week's Balancing Act, full story below for your > pleasure. > > Thank God the Kenya are experimenting with this approach where > government owns part, private sector owns part, educational > institutions should also own part, CSO owns part through IPO on the > stock market. > > The Kenya government can actually raise the 40% from government bonds > and am not an expert on the stock market discipline of shares or > bonds but this is where the financial experts need to come out with > innovative solutions that can help raise much of this money locally > and it is possible. > > In the attached paper which is an output of the great work Rahul > Tongia did with some colleagues and little input from me, it is clear > that we could actually wire Africa up with fiber to the most > population densed centres for a billion dollars whcih means if every > African put a dollar on the table we could wire Africa up with fiber > and 50 percent of that dark fiber already exist - what does that mean > to you as an African? > > > You Kenyans are showing the way and even it it does not work you > would be know for showing us how this model is not workable and then > we can try another. We Africans must try new ways of doing these > things and make our own mistakes and find our own solutions to our > problems but learn to avoid the mistakes of the Americans, Europeans > and Asians. Thank God for this BOLD move, it is commendable. > > > TOP STORY: KENYA BEGINS THE COUNTDOWN TO CHEAP INTERNATIONAL FIBRE > _____________________________________________________________________ > > It´s like waiting for a matatu. You wait for ages and none come > along. But just when you´re about to give up hope, three come along > at the same time, all trying to come to a screaming halt in front of > you. Kenya now has three (or more) potential international fibre > projects that could be complete within 12 months. Each one is loudly > proclaiming that it will deliver cheap international bandwidth. > Russell Southwood took the temperature in the market last week about > what the impact of this bandwidth will be upon the market. > > The Kenya Government has signed an MOU to build a fibre link to > Fujairah > in the UAE currently costed at Ksh5.7 billion. The construction and > supply contract will be awarded early next year and the project, > dubbed The East African Marine System (Teams), will be ready by > November, according to a joint statement issued by both parties from > Dubai. Many in the sector believe that it will be more like 19 months > or more before completion. > > The Kenya Government will have a 40 per cent holding in the project, > Etisalat 20% and the remaining 40% will go to investors in the East > African region. The Government has said it will organise an IPO on the > Kenyan Stock Exchange. Several Kenyan companies have expressed > interest and one said that the Government had told them it would > "guarantee their loan". The details of the finance package have > not yet been settled but it is unclear where the Kenyan Government > will raise its 40% from. Will the World Bank simply shift a portion of > its EASSy funding to the new project as many think likely? > > The Government´s commitment to a 12 month schedule is a bold move > but one that must lay them open to a certain amount of scepticism. The > tender for expressions of interest was only issued 2 weeks ago and > Government timetabling is notoriously slow compared to the private > sector. Apparently the Private Secretary has been telling interested > parties that the Government wants prices comparable to those to be > found in India in 12 months time. This benchmark has been set in order > that Kenya will be able to compete in the international outsourcing > market. > > Apparently a number of interested parties said that they would put up > all the money to build it if they could have a monopoly and he sent > them away disappointed. But more worryingly one interested party told > us that it could only get involved if it also allowed Telkom Kenya to > be a shareholder. > > The next international fibre project is KDN´s and it has now signed > its contract with Flag Telecom. Its link from Mombasa will terminate > in an undersea junction in international waters off of the Yemen. It > says the link will be fully operational in the first quarter of 2008, > just 15 months away. The company believes that it will come to market > with capacity at $500 per mbps pm but that the price of bandwidth will > go up to those wanting to invest as time passes. In other words, for > those who commit early prices will be lowest and for those who come in > late, prices will go higher. It also stresses that its landing station > at Mombasa will allow other carriers to co-locate there charging only > electricity and services at cost. > > So this leaves the third project EASSy looking as if it will be the > third runner. NEPAD appears to have made little more progress on > persuading more African Governments to sign its political protocol. > And whilst the members of the EASSy consortium (that still includes > KDN and Telkom Kenya) are still moving things forward, there remains a > disconnect between the political and commercial ends of the project. > If both of the above projects go ahead, there is clearly much less > need to build the Mombasa-Djibouti section of the route and it has to > be said that both of the above projects have better international > connection points. > > As if three were not enough, Ethiopia´s ETC has now had its > international fibre connection working effectively for two months via > Port Sudan and Saudi Arabia. But because it is landlocked and it had > endless fruitless arguments with Djibouti Telecom over control of a > possible fibre link, it wants to find a second international fibre > connection. Therefore it is in serious conversations with both of > Kenya´s fibre network operators about connecting to the Mombasa > links when they are ready. If this goes ahead, both it and Kenya will > then have two international fibre links. > > Because the process of getting the international fibre to Kenya has > been both confusing and "on-off", everyone in the market > (including customers) have understandably not really grasped the > impact of its arrival on their businesses. Until now ISPs and > satellite resellers have largely been in the businesses of living on > the margin they make between buying and selling bandwidth. > > These margins have been kept high as they have concentrated on selling > to comparatively few customers. Ironically it has been a high-price, > low volume business where their primary commodity - bandwidth - > has always been in short supply, not least because some of them > increased their margin by contending it as much as possible. This has > meant that bandwidth quality is often variable at best for those not > paying "top dollar" for a premium service. > > If you argue that international fibre prices should be low price, high > volume, then the national business model changes: what´s sauce for > the goose is sauce for the gander. Bandwidth becomes cheap and > plentiful at a sub $1000 threshold. The margins that can then be > charged make it difficult for those who are not operating at volume to > stay in business. > > However it does now open up opportunities for new services, content > and applications that can be sold to customers who should now be > paying European prices for real broadband connections (1-2 meg > upwards) rather than the paltry 64 kbps they are currently receiving. > There are at least 500,000 households in Kenya that are at an income > level that make them potential targets for broadband. It would take > only half of those households to sign up for there to be the > beginnings of a very different market. > > The real sign that the market has not "got it" is that some key > ISPs are not passing on the information about these soon-to-be cheap > prices but are seeking to protect their high margins by telling > customers higher prices. A heads-up, guys. The sector is a village and > news will get round quickly and we´ll encourage the circulation of > this price information. The market´s about to change, get ready to > change with it. > > At the national level, there is now a third source of fibre capacity. > Jamii Telecommunications has signed an agreement with the Kenya Light > and Power Company (KPLC) to sell an STM1´s worth of its fibre > capacity in Nairobi and Mombasa, with KPLC saying that it will triple > its capacity shortly. Two other companies - CTN and Cable Vision - > have been granted a licence to sell KPLC´s capacity and it is > telling (in terms of the argument above) that both are in the video > download and pay-TV business. Not so far afield, Tanzanian power > utility TANESCO is currently building out fibre capacity and has > invited bids to sell this capacity. Again KDN is poised to make a > fibre connection to Tanzania. > > However a recent ping on the Kampala-Nairobi route shows that neither > KDN nor Telkom Kenya has got its fibre route operational. KDN is > promising it will be operational by the end of first quarter 2007 and > that prices will be 20% cheaper. > > Elsewhere in the market, the new VoIP operators are finding it > difficult > to get interconnection agreements and to get proper service from > interconnect service providers. Telkom Kenya is charging absurdly high > prices but has at least reached interconnect agreements. Nevertheless > the new fixed wireless operators - Flashcom and Popote - are > having difficulties: customers are unable to receive or make calls to > certain countries. Apparently anyone who calls a customer number of > these fixed wireless operators from Germany gets a number > unobtainable. > > Access Kenya´s Yello VoIP service has been aimed at corporates and > has attracted 250 customers who generate 120,000 minutes a month. But > it has had difficulty getting interconnection agreements with the > mobile operators. It made a complaint to regulator CCK in April and > became so frustrated that it said it would run an advertisement > publicising the position. Safaricom came back to the table but Celtel > refuses to enter discussions, saying that it will do so in its own > time. > > Kenyan ISPs are under heavy pressure from all the new operators. > Flashcom and Popote are taking more money from data than voice at the > moment as customers are primarily signing up for cheaper Internet > access. Also the introduction of EDGE services by Safaricom is eating > into their high-end customers: one ISP´s CEO admitted privately that > he was losing hundreds of customers a month to these new competitors. > The challenge for everyone in the market will be whether they can take > the soon-to-arrive cheaper international bandwidth and use it to > transform the market. > > > Eric M.K Osiakwan > Executive Secretary > AfrISPA (www.afrispa.org) > Tel: + 233.21.258800 > Fax: + 233.21.258811 > Cell: + 233.244.386792 > Handle: eosiakwan > Snail Mail: Pmb 208, Accra-North > Office: BusyInternet - 42 Ring Road Central, Accra-North > Blog: http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/eric/ > Slang: "Tomorrow Now" > > > > > ------------------------------------------------------ Anriette Esterhuysen, Executive Director Association for Progressive Communications anriette(a)apc.org http://www.apc.org PO Box 29755, Melville, South Africa. 2109 Tel. 27 11 726 1692 Fax 27 11 726 1692 _______________________________________________ Fibre-for-africa mailing list Fibre-for-africa(a)lists.apc.org http://lists.apc.org/cgi-bin/mailman/listinfo/fibre-for-africa

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Call for Participation: AITEC's Wireless Broadband Africa conference 29Nov-1Dec 2006 Hilton Hotel
by alice＠apc.org 27 Nov '06

27 Nov '06

Dear KICTAnet members KICTAnet member, AITEC Kenya has made available some spaces for KICTAnet's participation at the wireless broadband conference taking place at the Hilton Hotel in Nairobi from 29th November to 1st December 2006. The theme of the conference is "Technologies and strategies to evolve optimised networks" and brings together world leading experts on wireless technologies to share their knowledge and expertise with ICT professionals. . The conference aims at updating knowledge on wireless systems, planning and deployment. Please visit AITEC's website for more information and the programme. www.aitecafrica.com KICTAnet is therefore inviting participation from broad civil society, media, and private sector particularly SME's Please send an offlist message to Evelyne Majale by tomorrow, Tuesday 28th 2006. evelyneofwona(a)yahoo.com Tel: +254 020 4453671/2 best regards alice

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ITU IG Resolution
by alice＠apc.org 24 Nov '06

24 Nov '06

For those who follow the ITU processes. Find attached the Plenipotentiary Conference (PP-06) Antalya, 6-24 November 2006 resolution Analysis of the text needed! best alice

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Free delegate spaces for Kictanet members at AITEC Conferences
by Sean Moroney 23 Nov '06

23 Nov '06

Hi Alice, Following our meeting today, I'm pleased to confirm our agreement to provide up to 20 free delegate spaces at all AITEC conferences in Kenya for KICTAnet members from NGOs, development projects, other non-profit organisations and academia. Members who wish to apply for these places should do so through the KICTAnet secretariat and then you send us a list of the nominated delegates 48 hours before the start of the conference. This should be sent to Grace Gathoni in our Kenya office. Unfortunately we can't include our workshops and training courses in this agreement as these are usually done in partnership with third parties. But wherever possible we will accommodate special requests. I hope this meets the needs of all those in the Kenyan ICT community who want to attend our conferences but can't afford the delegate fees - starting with our Wireless Broadband Conference next week. The updated programme for this conference is attached. I hope all KICTAnet members who are interested in this vital aspect of infrastructure development will be able to attend, whether paying or non-paying. Best regards, Sean Sean Moroney AITEC Africa <mailto:seanm@aitecafrica.com> seanm(a)aitecafrica.com UK Tel: +44-(0)1480-880774 UK Fax: +44-(0)1480-880765 UK Mobile: +44(0)7973-499224 SA Mobile: +27(0)72-610-7153 Kenya Mobile: +254(0)721-845674 Skype: seanmoroney <http://www.aitecafrica.com/> www.aitecafrica.com

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CALL FOR RESEARCHERS: "SAT-3/WASC Cable Research Project: Country Case Studies
by alice＠apc.org 22 Nov '06

22 Nov '06

Apologies for cross-posting. Please forward to suitable candidates in your contact list. CALL FOR RESEARCHERS: "SAT-3/WASC Cable Research Project: Country Case Studies" The Association for Progressive Communications is currently looking to engage four ICT policy researchers to conduct detailed country studies of the SAT-3/WASC submarine cable in the following countries: Angola, Cameroon, Ghana, and Senegal. The specific context of the research will be on the areas that Open Access (as a concept) seeks to impact - namely access and cost. Research will be conducted on the impact SAT-3/WASC has had on the competitiveness of international and Internet services in each country. Interested researchers should in the first instance submit a copy of their CV and a sample of written work (of no more than 2000 words) to abi(a)apc.org Please include "SAT-3/WASC Cable Research Project" AND the name of the country you are applying to research on, in the Subject field of your email. Applications should be received no later than Monday 27 November 2006 (17:00 GMT). A. Wanjira Munyua National Coordinator, Catalysing Access to ICTs in Africa (CATIA) Association for Progressive Communications (APC) alice(a)apc.org http://www.apc.org http://www.catia.ws

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