ICANN TO IMPROVE LOCAL PRESENCE By Rebecca Wanjiku Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is planning to improve technical skills in developing countries through training to country code Top Level domain (ccTLD) managers. In 2006/2007, ICANN aims at improving access to technical advice and resolution of technical issues in local communities. The community response program with be created and designed to ensure that developing countries access update technical information. With the ccTLD managers, the training will be geared towards improving security and stability of the internet. The training and other services are expected to be delivered in tandem with other existing local and regional initiatives. ICANN will also utilise the regional liaisons to create communications network. The liaison will be trained on the technical issues and will be expected to be the bridge between ICANN and local communities. Anne-Rachel Inne has been appointed Liaison for Africa. In this respect, ICANN will conduct six workshops all over the world and create communication link between regional liaisons and key personnel in developing countries. Through regional liaison, ICANN will seek to facilitate community participation in ICANN activities and allow ICANN to respond to user needs. The Internet oversight body will also endeavour to participate in regional initiatives as well as sponsoring or co hosting. Ends Rebecca Wanjiku, p.o box 33515, Nairobi.00600 Kenya. Tel. 254 720 318 925 blog:http://beckyit.blogspot.com/ --------------------------------- Yahoo! Messenger with Voice. Make PC-to-Phone Calls to the US (and 30+ countries) for 2¢/min or less.