Dear Listers,

We are sharing a summary of our articles published in April 2025, reflecting our ongoing commitment to advancing digital rights, inclusion, and empowerment in Kenya:

Our publications this month focused on several key areas:

• Advocating for Digital Rights: We actively participated in Kenya’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) pre-session in Geneva, pushing for stronger digital and human rights protections as part of Kenya's international obligations.
• Building Coalitions: We explored the potential benefits of a coalition between human and digital rights organizations in Kenya through the KenSafeSpace initiative. Additionally, KICTANet and the Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE) co-hosted a forum in Nairobi emphasizing the urgent need for unified advocacy to safeguard freedom of expression amidst growing digital threats.
• Digital Empowerment: In partnership with the UK Government, we celebrated the successful conclusion of the Strengthening Digital Communities (SDC) Project, which has positively impacted over 600,000 citizens in marginalized Kenyan communities through digital literacy and access initiatives.
• Condemning Internet Shutdowns: KICTANet joined global voices in condemning internet shutdowns, urging Gabonese authorities to #KeepItOn during elections, highlighting the detrimental effects on democracy and human rights.
• Examining Kenya's Digital Future: We had discussions on data ownership and privacy in Kenya’s digital transformation, particularly concerning digital ID systems like Maisha Namba and eCitizen. We also explored the role and challenges faced by women in Kenya’s expanding gig economy, advocating for a fair and equitable future.

Save the Date: Africa Tech Policy Summit (AfTPS)

We are also excited to announce the inaugural Africa Tech Policy Summit (AfTPS), organized by KICTANet, which will be held in Nairobi, Kenya, from May 12-16, 2025.

This week-long event will bring together policymakers, private sector leaders, academia, civil society, and tech startups from across Africa to promote the harmonization of tech policies and foster technological development across the continent.

Themed “Tech for Human Development: Policy, Innovation, and Inclusive Governance,” the summit will feature:

• Kenya Internet Governance Forum (KeIGF): May 14, 2025
• East Africa Internet Governance Forum (EAIGF): May 15-16, 2025
• Kenya School of Internet Governance (KESIG): Online learning (April 28 - May 9, 2025), Industry events (May 7-9, 2025)
• Dedicated sessions for Youth and Children’s IGF

The AfTPS aims to generate actionable recommendations for harmonizing tech policies across Africa, foster partnerships among stakeholders, and identify pathways for supporting innovation and inclusive digital transformation. We encourage you to save the date and join us for this landmark event!

Thank you for your continued interest in KICTANet's work.