Dear listers, I have reliably learnt that the Uganda Government banned he importation of used computers in that country in the last budget. Then I remember that the PS, Dr Ndemo, said that the reason why we are paying 25% duty on used computers in Kenya is because there is an East African protocol that demands that used computers must be taxed. I also remember that the PS has in various fora indicated that its in the best interest of his Ministry and the country to put as much hardware in the hands of the people as possible. Having observed in the past that this 25% duty on used computers runs counter to OUR strategy to become an ICT powerhouse globally, its now clear that we must break from any agreements that we have with our neighbours that do not tie in with our own strategies. For instance, if Uganda bans used computers, will we be bound to follow suit? What if they don't have similar strategies or objectives and they don't care about having their citizens access computers?. Haven't we already done this as far as used motor vehicles are concerned? whereas our neighbours have an age limit of 10 years, we have stuck to our 8 years and the community is still strong. -- Evans Ikua, Chairman, Linux Professional Association of Kenya Tel: +254-20-2250381, Cell: +254-722 955 831 Eagle House, 2nd Floor Kimathi Street, Opp. Corner House www.lpakenya.org