Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things)
Day 8 of 10: * Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains The Background: Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements. Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated. Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues? Your comments are welcome -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
Listers, As we start day 8 of 10, please note that you can still contribute to any of the threads of the previous days. We would also like to thank everyone who has edited the policy on the Jadili platform http://jadili.ictpolicy.org/docs/kenya-ict-policy. We welcome your views on emerging issues. If there is any subject that has not been covered feel free to propose emerging areas that should be considered. Regards On 7/1/16, Barrack Otieno <otieno.barrack@gmail.com> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
Hi All, Day 8 of 10: * Internet of Things, M2M This calls for convergence of technologies. A curriculum change at Higher Institutions of Learning will be able to adopt to a new posture of enabling traditional courses like mechanical, electrical engineering innovate along those lines. * Net Neutrality & OTT: Support content development due to low barrier to entry on OTT. Appreciate OTT platforms as alternative channels to leverage on and encourage budding broadcasters into it. * Big Data appreciation is needed across different segments on applications of big data in solutions provision guided by harnessing the information contained herein the data hindsight, insight and foresight. Government to deploy enough resources to better utilize big data in making planning. Allow open access to certain extend to encourage innovators to develop algorithms that can provide insights that can change our future. * Virtual Money/BlockChains: Awareness within the regulatory space environment of the emerging technology will go a long way in creating an enabling environment by attenuation of its resistance. Block chain application beyond fintech be encouraged to support big data. Regards Timothy Oriedo ICF Certified Coach, Chartered Marketer, Technology, Media & Telco Enthusiast FB, Linkedln- Timothy Oriedo Skype, Twitter @timoriedo 0722 816171 Day 8 of 10: * Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains The Background: Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements. Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated. Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues? Your comments are welcome -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/timoriedo%40gmail.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Barrack and all For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:- Net Neutrality 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart? Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology. Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology. We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it. Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this. I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:- The constitution was presented to the Attorney General of Kenya on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The new Constitution was approved by 67% of Kenyan voters. The constitution was promulgated on 27 August 2010. In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into EVERYTHING that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We CANNOT and MUST NOT let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large. It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'. My humble two cents.. Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375 Twitter: @AliHKassim Skype: abu-jomo LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim "Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-but-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/>, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this. But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing. Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come. Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa--june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT. Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-startups-of-2015.htm>. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this. We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right. On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read. My questions:1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers? 2. Will it disrupt Mpesa? 3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank? 4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology? 5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue? I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje? RgdsGG Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this. But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing. Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come. Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT. Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this. We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right. On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: Barrack and all For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:- Net Neutrality 1. Third party liability?2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic?3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in.5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart? Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology. Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology. We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it. Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this. I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:- The constitution was presented to the Attorney General of Kenya on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The new Constitution was approved by 67% of Kenyan voters. The constitution was promulgated on 27 August 2010. In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into EVERYTHING that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We CANNOT and MUST NOT let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large. It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'. My humble two cents.. Ali HusseinPrincipalHussein & Associates+254 0713 601113 / 0770906375 Twitter: @AliHKassimSkype: abu-jomoLinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim "Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi Sent from my iPad On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: Day 8 of 10: * Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains The Background: Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements. Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated. Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues? Your comments are welcome -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. -- Ahmed Maawy Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Dear GG, Many thanks for your timely intervention, it would be interesting to hear the Cabinet Secretaries view on block chain since he is a leader in his own right in the technology field, one of the challenges we are facing in my humble opinion is inadequate information on the pros and cons of this emerging technologies making it difficult to mitigate potential risks, i wonder how we can get around this fear of the unknown which might be bwana Njoroge's major headache. Regards On 7/1/16, Grace Githaiga via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read. My questions:1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers? 2. Will it disrupt Mpesa? 3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank? 4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology? 5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue? I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje? RgdsGG
Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: Barrack and all For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:- Net Neutrality 1. Third party liability?2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic?3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in.5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart? Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology. Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology. We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it. Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this. I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:- The constitution was presented to the Attorney General of Kenya on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The new Constitution was approved by 67% of Kenyan voters. The constitution was promulgated on 27 August 2010. In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into EVERYTHING that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We CANNOT and MUST NOT let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large. It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'. My humble two cents.. Ali HusseinPrincipalHussein & Associates+254 0713 601113 / 0770906375 Twitter: @AliHKassimSkype: abu-jomoLinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi Sent from my iPad On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________
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kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke
https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Ahmed Maawy Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
Grace On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza. Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375 Twitter: @AliHKassim Skype: abu-jomo LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim "Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
Net Neutrality 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology. Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The constitution was presented to the Attorney General of Kenya on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The new Constitution was approved by 67% of Kenyan voters. The constitution was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into EVERYTHING that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We CANNOT and MUST NOT let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Ahmed Maawy Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Thank you Barrack, Though I have to admit I am not sure how I can tamper with such policy documents so professionally crafted :D Mine will be to suggest what I think is also needed to be done and I am sure the Kictanet community with the CS will be able to understand how it fits within the context of the document. Ahmed On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:55 PM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Grace
On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza.
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
------------------------------ Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-but-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/>, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa--june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-startups-of-2015.htm>. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
As we contribute on the topic today let me make aware that we currently have a Kenyan start up called Inuka Pap that is currently participating in the Barclays Techstars Accelerator Program in Capetown. It is a social entrepreneur company with a VAS proposition to SACCO members that enables them to access instant loans, cash advances, credit/debit card services as well other consumer services such as prepaid power, airtime, insurance all from Inuka mobile wallet. The instant loan mobile wallet is accessible through both USSD and mobile application. The loan can be withdrawn to M -pesa or from an ATM through Debit/credit cards - which are integrated with our systems, saving customers more than half the average transaction cost. Through the platform the SACCO can lend their own money or have iNuka Pap provide the float at an agreed shared interest. Founded by Waweru, George and Rachel I have asked admin to add them to the Listing. We will want to here from them also on the policy and how its affecting their innovation which they are configuring around the block chain technology. Let's appreciate them and refer as many Saccos as possible to subscribe to the platform. Here is the you tube link of the Demo Day they had in cape town yesterday.... https:// <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>m.youtube.com <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes> Regards Timothy Oriedo ICF Certified Coach, Chartered Marketer, Technology, Media & Telco Enthusiast FB, Linkedln- Timothy Oriedo Skype, Twitter @timoriedo 0722 816171 Thank you Barrack, Though I have to admit I am not sure how I can tamper with such policy documents so professionally crafted :D Mine will be to suggest what I think is also needed to be done and I am sure the Kictanet community with the CS will be able to understand how it fits within the context of the document. Ahmed On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:55 PM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Grace
On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza.
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
------------------------------ Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-but-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/>, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa--june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-startups-of-2015.htm>. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/timoriedo%40gmail.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Grace et al, Not sure some of these questions have been answered but here goes: Block chain is a decentralized ledger that maintains unalterable record of transactions between parties and serves as the foundation of Bitcoin - however am sure the link did help. This is and will be a game changer I guess we should all take note. Issues around identity, security of assets have plagued out country and its this in mind that I can see why discussions around Block chain might prove to be difficult. Data is the next "Intel inside" and Safaricom sharing their data well.. that's a Hail Mary Pass if you ask me. Despite the success of M-Pesa in Kenya, the average transaction size over this service remains at $27. Carrying high minimum fees, the most frequently occurring merchant transactions (under 1 dollar) carry a transaction fee of up to 10% when executed digitally across these services. Well I don't think we can experience financial inclusion with this model? *A closer look at today’s usage patterns reveals that two thirds of all mobile payment subscribers, and half of all registered agents, are inactive within 90 days. * *Of the active subscribers — those using mobile payment services at least once within 90 days —we find that very specific behavioural patterns are followed. Roughly 3 out of 4 the dollars transacted on mobile money systems are dollars cashed-in to mobile money at an entry point, transacted via the mobile network, and immediately cashed-out again on the receiving end: a classic case of remittance. On average this type of ‘remittance via mobile money service’ is used by active users twice a month — generating 6 out of their average 11 transactions per month. The remaining 5 transactions are merely airtime topups. Merchant and bill payments, which represent the most obvious and frequent potential daily use cases, are practically inexistent* *.* *Four out of these six ‘remittance’ transactions require the broad availability of an extensive agent network. Data from the 2015 Industry report suggests that, on average, today’s mobile money ecosystem requires one active agent per 80 active users. No wonder that 54% of all revenues generated are eaten up maintaining this abundant agent network*. (*Report on Mobile Money issued last month by GSMA Mobile4Development, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, The Mastercard Foundation, and the Omidyar Network *) My long way of saying Mpesa is practically a dead horse. While Treasury, CBK et al will be key in this discussions, alternative thinkers will be needed for traction but the future is indeed bright.. EM On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:41 PM, Timothy- Coach- Oriedo via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
As we contribute on the topic today let me make aware that we currently have a Kenyan start up called Inuka Pap that is currently participating in the Barclays Techstars Accelerator Program in Capetown.
It is a social entrepreneur company with a VAS proposition to SACCO members that enables them to access instant loans, cash advances, credit/debit card services as well other consumer services such as prepaid power, airtime, insurance all from Inuka mobile wallet.
The instant loan mobile wallet is accessible through both USSD and mobile application. The loan can be withdrawn to M -pesa or from an ATM through Debit/credit cards - which are integrated with our systems, saving customers more than half the average transaction cost. Through the platform the SACCO can lend their own money or have iNuka Pap provide the float at an agreed shared interest.
Founded by Waweru, George and Rachel I have asked admin to add them to the Listing. We will want to here from them also on the policy and how its affecting their innovation which they are configuring around the block chain technology.
Let's appreciate them and refer as many Saccos as possible to subscribe to the platform. Here is the you tube link of the Demo Day they had in cape town yesterday....
https:// <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>m.youtube.com <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>
Regards
Timothy Oriedo ICF Certified Coach, Chartered Marketer, Technology, Media & Telco Enthusiast FB, Linkedln- Timothy Oriedo Skype, Twitter @timoriedo 0722 816171 Thank you Barrack,
Though I have to admit I am not sure how I can tamper with such policy documents so professionally crafted :D
Mine will be to suggest what I think is also needed to be done and I am sure the Kictanet community with the CS will be able to understand how it fits within the context of the document.
Ahmed
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:55 PM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Grace
On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza.
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
------------------------------ Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-but-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/>, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa--june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-startups-of-2015.htm>. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Eric, What you are saying is you cannot use mpesa transactions to predict behavior specifically " earning power". Vindicates an observation am aware of where an algorithm developed by a bank X using the mpesa platform misled the credit ratings ending up with loan defaults forcing the bank to discontinue. Regards Tim On Jul 1, 2016 4:17 PM, "Erick Mwangi" <erick.mwangi@gmail.com> wrote:
Grace et al,
Not sure some of these questions have been answered but here goes:
Block chain is a decentralized ledger that maintains unalterable record of transactions between parties and serves as the foundation of Bitcoin - however am sure the link did help. This is and will be a game changer I guess we should all take note. Issues around identity, security of assets have plagued out country and its this in mind that I can see why discussions around Block chain might prove to be difficult. Data is the next "Intel inside" and Safaricom sharing their data well.. that's a Hail Mary Pass if you ask me.
Despite the success of M-Pesa in Kenya, the average transaction size over this service remains at $27. Carrying high minimum fees, the most frequently occurring merchant transactions (under 1 dollar) carry a transaction fee of up to 10% when executed digitally across these services. Well I don't think we can experience financial inclusion with this model?
*A closer look at today’s usage patterns reveals that two thirds of all mobile payment subscribers, and half of all registered agents, are inactive within 90 days. *
*Of the active subscribers — those using mobile payment services at least once within 90 days —we find that very specific behavioural patterns are followed. Roughly 3 out of 4 the dollars transacted on mobile money systems are dollars cashed-in to mobile money at an entry point, transacted via the mobile network, and immediately cashed-out again on the receiving end: a classic case of remittance. On average this type of ‘remittance via mobile money service’ is used by active users twice a month — generating 6 out of their average 11 transactions per month. The remaining 5 transactions are merely airtime topups. Merchant and bill payments, which represent the most obvious and frequent potential daily use cases, are practically inexistent* *.*
*Four out of these six ‘remittance’ transactions require the broad availability of an extensive agent network. Data from the 2015 Industry report suggests that, on average, today’s mobile money ecosystem requires one active agent per 80 active users. No wonder that 54% of all revenues generated are eaten up maintaining this abundant agent network*. (*Report on Mobile Money issued last month by GSMA Mobile4Development, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, The Mastercard Foundation, and the Omidyar Network *) My long way of saying Mpesa is practically a dead horse.
While Treasury, CBK et al will be key in this discussions, alternative thinkers will be needed for traction but the future is indeed bright..
EM
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:41 PM, Timothy- Coach- Oriedo via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
As we contribute on the topic today let me make aware that we currently have a Kenyan start up called Inuka Pap that is currently participating in the Barclays Techstars Accelerator Program in Capetown.
It is a social entrepreneur company with a VAS proposition to SACCO members that enables them to access instant loans, cash advances, credit/debit card services as well other consumer services such as prepaid power, airtime, insurance all from Inuka mobile wallet.
The instant loan mobile wallet is accessible through both USSD and mobile application. The loan can be withdrawn to M -pesa or from an ATM through Debit/credit cards - which are integrated with our systems, saving customers more than half the average transaction cost. Through the platform the SACCO can lend their own money or have iNuka Pap provide the float at an agreed shared interest.
Founded by Waweru, George and Rachel I have asked admin to add them to the Listing. We will want to here from them also on the policy and how its affecting their innovation which they are configuring around the block chain technology.
Let's appreciate them and refer as many Saccos as possible to subscribe to the platform. Here is the you tube link of the Demo Day they had in cape town yesterday....
https:// <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>m.youtube.com <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>
Regards
Timothy Oriedo ICF Certified Coach, Chartered Marketer, Technology, Media & Telco Enthusiast FB, Linkedln- Timothy Oriedo Skype, Twitter @timoriedo 0722 816171 Thank you Barrack,
Though I have to admit I am not sure how I can tamper with such policy documents so professionally crafted :D
Mine will be to suggest what I think is also needed to be done and I am sure the Kictanet community with the CS will be able to understand how it fits within the context of the document.
Ahmed
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:55 PM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Grace
On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza.
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
------------------------------ Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-but-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/>, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa--june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-startups-of-2015.htm>. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
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KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
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Erick Insightful to say the least. The Gauntlet has been thrown. We need t me this discussion to its logical conclusion. Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375 Twitter: @AliHKassim Skype: abu-jomo LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim "Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 4:17 PM, Erick Mwangi via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Grace et al,
Not sure some of these questions have been answered but here goes:
Block chain is a decentralized ledger that maintains unalterable record of transactions between parties and serves as the foundation of Bitcoin - however am sure the link did help. This is and will be a game changer I guess we should all take note. Issues around identity, security of assets have plagued out country and its this in mind that I can see why discussions around Block chain might prove to be difficult. Data is the next "Intel inside" and Safaricom sharing their data well.. that's a Hail Mary Pass if you ask me.
Despite the success of M-Pesa in Kenya, the average transaction size over this service remains at $27. Carrying high minimum fees, the most frequently occurring merchant transactions (under 1 dollar) carry a transaction fee of up to 10% when executed digitally across these services. Well I don't think we can experience financial inclusion with this model? A closer look at today’s usage patterns reveals that two thirds of all mobile payment subscribers, and half of all registered agents, are inactive within 90 days.
Of the active subscribers — those using mobile payment services at least once within 90 days —we find that very specific behavioural patterns are followed. Roughly 3 out of 4 the dollars transacted on mobile money systems are dollars cashed-in to mobile money at an entry point, transacted via the mobile network, and immediately cashed-out again on the receiving end: a classic case of remittance. On average this type of ‘remittance via mobile money service’ is used by active users twice a month — generating 6 out of their average 11 transactions per month. The remaining 5 transactions are merely airtime topups. Merchant and bill payments, which represent the most obvious and frequent potential daily use cases, are practically inexistent.
Four out of these six ‘remittance’ transactions require the broad availability of an extensive agent network. Data from the 2015 Industry report suggests that, on average, today’s mobile money ecosystem requires one active agent per 80 active users. No wonder that 54% of all revenues generated are eaten up maintaining this abundant agent network. (Report on Mobile Money issued last month by GSMA Mobile4Development, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, The Mastercard Foundation, and the Omidyar Network )
My long way of saying Mpesa is practically a dead horse.
While Treasury, CBK et al will be key in this discussions, alternative thinkers will be needed for traction but the future is indeed bright..
EM
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:41 PM, Timothy- Coach- Oriedo via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: As we contribute on the topic today let me make aware that we currently have a Kenyan start up called Inuka Pap that is currently participating in the Barclays Techstars Accelerator Program in Capetown.
It is a social entrepreneur company with a VAS proposition to SACCO members that enables them to access instant loans, cash advances, credit/debit card services as well other consumer services such as prepaid power, airtime, insurance all from Inuka mobile wallet.
The instant loan mobile wallet is accessible through both USSD and mobile application. The loan can be withdrawn to M -pesa or from an ATM through Debit/credit cards - which are integrated with our systems, saving customers more than half the average transaction cost. Through the platform the SACCO can lend their own money or have iNuka Pap provide the float at an agreed shared interest.
Founded by Waweru, George and Rachel I have asked admin to add them to the Listing. We will want to here from them also on the policy and how its affecting their innovation which they are configuring around the block chain technology.
Let's appreciate them and refer as many Saccos as possible to subscribe to the platform. Here is the you tube link of the Demo Day they had in cape town yesterday....
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes
Regards
Timothy Oriedo ICF Certified Coach, Chartered Marketer, Technology, Media & Telco Enthusiast FB, Linkedln- Timothy Oriedo Skype, Twitter @timoriedo 0722 816171
Thank you Barrack,
Though I have to admit I am not sure how I can tamper with such policy documents so professionally crafted :D
Mine will be to suggest what I think is also needed to be done and I am sure the Kictanet community with the CS will be able to understand how it fits within the context of the document.
Ahmed
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:55 PM, Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: Grace
On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza.
Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim Skype: abu-jomo LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
Net Neutrality 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology. Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The constitution was presented to the Attorney General of Kenya on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The new Constitution was approved by 67% of Kenyan voters. The constitution was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into EVERYTHING that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We CANNOT and MUST NOT let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Ahmed Maawy Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Ahmed Maawy Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
@ Tim, Very interesting intervention, please add them to the list, i am sure they will make a very meaningfull contribution by sharing their experiences, meanwhile , i want to thank everyone who has edited the policy document, this is the way to go, keep the comments coming. Best Regards On 7/1/16, Timothy- Coach- Oriedo via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
As we contribute on the topic today let me make aware that we currently have a Kenyan start up called Inuka Pap that is currently participating in the Barclays Techstars Accelerator Program in Capetown.
It is a social entrepreneur company with a VAS proposition to SACCO members that enables them to access instant loans, cash advances, credit/debit card services as well other consumer services such as prepaid power, airtime, insurance all from Inuka mobile wallet.
The instant loan mobile wallet is accessible through both USSD and mobile application. The loan can be withdrawn to M -pesa or from an ATM through Debit/credit cards - which are integrated with our systems, saving customers more than half the average transaction cost. Through the platform the SACCO can lend their own money or have iNuka Pap provide the float at an agreed shared interest.
Founded by Waweru, George and Rachel I have asked admin to add them to the Listing. We will want to here from them also on the policy and how its affecting their innovation which they are configuring around the block chain technology.
Let's appreciate them and refer as many Saccos as possible to subscribe to the platform. Here is the you tube link of the Demo Day they had in cape town yesterday....
https:// <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>m.youtube.com <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes <https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YF9Xp_I0aes>
Regards
Timothy Oriedo ICF Certified Coach, Chartered Marketer, Technology, Media & Telco Enthusiast FB, Linkedln- Timothy Oriedo Skype, Twitter @timoriedo 0722 816171 Thank you Barrack,
Though I have to admit I am not sure how I can tamper with such policy documents so professionally crafted :D
Mine will be to suggest what I think is also needed to be done and I am sure the Kictanet community with the CS will be able to understand how it fits within the context of the document.
Ahmed
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:55 PM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Grace
On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza.
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
------------------------------ Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-but-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/>, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa--june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-startups-of-2015.htm>. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/timoriedo%40gmail.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
From the Research & Development (R & D) angle, if Kenya is to benefit from
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-... ut-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/> , and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there¹s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa... -june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-star... ups-of-2015.htm> . We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
Net Neutrality 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology. Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The constitution was presented to the Attorney General of Kenya on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The new Constitution was approved by 67% of Kenyan voters. The constitution was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into EVERYTHING that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We CANNOT and MUST NOT let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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swahilibox.co.ke <http://swahilibox.co.ke> globalshapers.org <http://globalshapers.org> www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com <http://startupgrind.com> ajplus.net <http://ajplus.net> www.everylayer.com <http://www.everylayer.com/>
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.kehttps://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/k ictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/muthoni%40uonbi.ac.ke The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for
Here is my take on IoT: the 'IoT Boom', we need to develop capacity in R&D; to reclaim, re-tell and re-write the Kenyan story; we need to be able to set the agenda for ourselves. For instance, successful implementation of IoT demands for new and different skill sets such as data and analytics. The dynamic and diverse nature of skills required will not be met by traditional one-off degrees and technical courses; instead, online, continuous and collaborative learning platforms will suffice. This is what is referred to as connected learning; it is anchored on four pillars: people, process, data and things (quoated from Cisco). Having been a trailblazer in a number of technological innovations in the Africa, Kenya has a great chance taking leadership in this area. I am part of an IoT Working Group working on IoT agenda for Africa; the Group¹s proposals will be featured in the 2016 IEEE 3rd World Forum on Internet of Things (WF-IoT) (http://wfiot2016.ieee-wf-iot.org/ <http://wfiot2016.ieee-wf-iot.org/> ). My personal hypothesis in this agenda is that Africa has unique challenges and opportunities that should influence the R & D for IoT agenda. This way, we might succeed in reversing the trend where we tend to become consumers as opposed to innovators and creators of technological solutions and services. Kind regards Muthoni From: kictanet <kictanet-bounces+muthoni=uonbi.ac.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke> on behalf of Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> Reply-To: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> Date: Friday, 1 July 2016 12:55 To: Muthoni Masinde <muthoni@uonbi.ac.ke> Cc: Ali Hussein <ali@hussein.me.ke> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) Grace On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza. Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375 Twitter: @AliHKassim Skype: abu-jomo LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim "Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi Sent from my iPad On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Many thanks for your insightfull feedback @ Muthoni, i agree with your sentiments, your input on the other topical areas is also welcome. On 7/1/16, Muthoni Masinde via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Here is my take on IoT:
From the Research & Development (R & D) angle, if Kenya is to benefit from the 'IoT Boom', we need to develop capacity in R&D; to reclaim, re-tell and re-write the Kenyan story; we need to be able to set the agenda for ourselves. For instance, successful implementation of IoT demands for new and different skill sets such as data and analytics. The dynamic and diverse nature of skills required will not be met by traditional one-off degrees and technical courses; instead, online, continuous and collaborative learning platforms will suffice. This is what is referred to as connected learning; it is anchored on four pillars: people, process, data and things (quoated from Cisco). Having been a trailblazer in a number of technological innovations in the Africa, Kenya has a great chance taking leadership in this area.
I am part of an IoT Working Group working on IoT agenda for Africa; the Group¹s proposals will be featured in the 2016 IEEE 3rd World Forum on Internet of Things (WF-IoT) (http://wfiot2016.ieee-wf-iot.org/ <http://wfiot2016.ieee-wf-iot.org/> ). My personal hypothesis in this agenda is that Africa has unique challenges and opportunities that should influence the R & D for IoT agenda. This way, we might succeed in reversing the trend where we tend to become consumers as opposed to innovators and creators of technological solutions and services.
Kind regards Muthoni
From: kictanet <kictanet-bounces+muthoni=uonbi.ac.ke@lists.kictanet.or.ke> on behalf of Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> Reply-To: KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> Date: Friday, 1 July 2016 12:55 To: Muthoni Masinde <muthoni@uonbi.ac.ke> Cc: Ali Hussein <ali@hussein.me.ke> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things)
Grace
On the mark and on point. Maswali nyeti unayouliza.
Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 10:36 AM, Grace Githaiga via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read.
My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers?
2. Will it disrupt Mpesa?
3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank?
4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology?
5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue?
I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje?
Rgds GG
Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-... ut-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/> , and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there¹s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa... -june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-star... ups-of-2015.htm> . We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
Net Neutrality 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology. Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The constitution was presented to the Attorney General of Kenya on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The new Constitution was approved by 67% of Kenyan voters. The constitution was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into EVERYTHING that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We CANNOT and MUST NOT let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Ahmed Maawy Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke <http://swahilibox.co.ke> globalshapers.org <http://globalshapers.org> www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com <http://startupgrind.com> ajplus.net <http://ajplus.net> www.everylayer.com <http://www.everylayer.com/>
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.kehttps://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kic tanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co... The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.kehttps://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/k ictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/muthoni%40uonbi.ac.ke The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
Hi Grace, Blockchain & crypto-currencies will be an important focus area for our Banking & Mobile Money COMESA Conference at Panafric Hotel over 30-31 August. The draft programme is attached. John Karanjas BitHub and the work being done by Michael Kimanis Blockchain Africa are adding to the pioneering work done by BitPesa. Central Bank and the commercial banks need to learn from the expertise developed by these initiatives, rather than taking the usual route of starting from scratch - or commissioning expensive international consultants to develop a report. So often, talent on our doorstep is overlooked in favour of big-names-over-the-seas! Sean Moroney Chairman AITEC Africa seanm@aitecafrica.com <mailto:seanm@aitecafrica.com> |Skype: seanmoroney UK Mobile: +44(0)7973499224|Kenya Mobile: +254(0) 737148814 www.aitecafrica.com <http://www.aitecafrica.com/> From: kictanet [mailto:kictanet-bounces+seanm=aitecafrica.com@lists.kictanet.or.ke] On Behalf Of Grace Githaiga via kictanet Sent: Friday, July 1, 2016 10:36 AM To: seanm@aitecafrica.com Cc: Grace Githaiga <ggithaiga@hotmail.com> Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) The issue of virtual Money/BlockChains is gaining traction all over the World. I was in a meeting recently and one question that most people asked me when they learnt I was Kenyan was on what were my thoughts around block chain technology disrupting our famous mpesa. Unfortunately I had no answer for them but it got me thinking. I am glad that someone on this list shared this link https://followmyvote.com/online-voting-technology/blockchain-technology/ which explains clearly how it works, at least for those who are not conversant. It is a worthy read. My questions: 1. Considering that Kenya has taken a lead in issues of technology, should we be concerned about block chain technology considering it kinda provides a platform where no one organisation owns the data? And in light of KRA wanting to compel safaricom to share the data of its subscribers? 2. Will it disrupt Mpesa? 3. Where is Central bank in this matter? Is central bank concerned that technology is about to change the way it does business or will it wait to make some unfortunate comment like it did recently on bloggers being responsible for the withdrawals at Chase Bank? 4. And where is Treasury in this debate? Is it concerned with financial technology? 5. Considering that this might be an idea whose time has come, do we need policy direction on this issue? I believe we have an opportunity with this ICT policy to be futuristic. Ama niaje? Rgds GG _____ Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2016 06:13:08 +0300 Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) From: kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke <mailto:kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> CC: ultimateprogramer@gmail.com <mailto:ultimateprogramer@gmail.com> To: ggithaiga@hotmail.com <mailto:ggithaiga@hotmail.com> I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen -but-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/> , and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this. But then theres something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing. Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come. Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombas a--june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT. Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-sta rtups-of-2015.htm> . We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this. We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right. On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke <mailto:kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> > wrote: Barrack and all For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:- Net Neutrality 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart? Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology. Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology. We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it. Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this. I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:- The constitution was presented to the Attorney General of Kenya on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The new Constitution was approved by 67% of Kenyan voters. The constitution was promulgated on 27 August 2010. In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into EVERYTHING that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We CANNOT and MUST NOT let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large. It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'. My humble two cents.. Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375 Twitter: @AliHKassim Skype: abu-jomo LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim "Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi Sent from my iPad On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke <mailto:kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> > wrote: Day 8 of 10: * Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains The Background: Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements. Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated. Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues? Your comments are welcome -- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke <mailto:kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke <mailto:kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm ail.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications. -- Ahmed Maawy Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer swahilibox.co.ke <http://swahilibox.co.ke> <http://globalshapers.org> globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com <http://startupgrind.com> ajplus.net <http://ajplus.net> www.everylayer.com <http://www.everylayer.com/> _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke <mailto:kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ggithaiga%40hotmail.co m The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Ahmed, Thank you for your intervention. How do we convert this wonderfull idea into a simple policy statement that can support innovation and research and developement, please feel free to edit the policy document on the Jadili platform to make sure it captures this suggestion. We can refine it during the face to face meeting. Here is the link http://jadili.ictpolicy.org/docs/kenya-ict-policy. On 7/1/16, Ahmed Mohamed Maawy via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-but-is-it-yet-the-os-of-everything/>, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa--june-2015> and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-startups-of-2015.htm>. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
Barrack, please not that you have jumped the gun. Blockchain and cryptocurrency is not in the Draft Policy. :-) As you can see from the sentiments, the pioneers of tech want to hear the government voice on the same. *I hope after this public consultation, we will see a paragraph about blockchains in the draft.* It can be a high level paragraph that read *x) Blockchains: We acknowledge the tremendous potential of the blockchain technology in transforming various sectors of our economy and their application in governance especially smart contracts. As the innovations progress, Kenya is committed to adopt the technology in our society. * It has been said before that "That blockchain technology will have an impact equal to the creation of the Internet ..." The Harvard Business Review conducted a two-year research project exploring how blockchain technology can change the way we securely move and store host "money, titles, deeds, music, art, scientific discoveries, intellectual property, and even votes" It states that blockchain is the first native digital medium for value, just as the internet was the first native digital medium for information. And this has big implications for business and the corporation. https://hbr.org/2016/05/the-impact-of-the-blockchain-goes-beyond-financial-s... . Regards. ______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva, Nairobi, Kenya twitter.com/lordmwesh On 1 July 2016 at 11:00, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Ahmed,
Thank you for your intervention. How do we convert this wonderfull idea into a simple policy statement that can support innovation and research and developement, please feel free to edit the policy document on the Jadili platform to make sure it captures this suggestion. We can refine it during the face to face meeting. Here is the link http://jadili.ictpolicy.org/docs/kenya-ict-policy.
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen < http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-... , and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and
Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT < http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa...
and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data < http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-star... . We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of
New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August
On 7/1/16, Ahmed Mohamed Maawy via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: that the 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their
DNA.
I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at
https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at
https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Spot on Mwendwa, to supplement this - here is a paper that was distributed in my MIT class a while back that will crystalize this discourse around block chain and its potential impacts. Eric M On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 2:46 PM, Mwendwa Kivuva via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack, please not that you have jumped the gun. Blockchain and cryptocurrency is not in the Draft Policy. :-)
As you can see from the sentiments, the pioneers of tech want to hear the government voice on the same. *I hope after this public consultation, we will see a paragraph about blockchains in the draft.* It can be a high level paragraph that read
*x) Blockchains: We acknowledge the tremendous potential of the blockchain technology in transforming various sectors of our economy and their application in governance especially smart contracts. As the innovations progress, Kenya is committed to adopt the technology in our society. *
It has been said before that "That blockchain technology will have an impact equal to the creation of the Internet ..."
The Harvard Business Review conducted a two-year research project exploring how blockchain technology can change the way we securely move and store host "money, titles, deeds, music, art, scientific discoveries, intellectual property, and even votes" It states that blockchain is the first native digital medium for value, just as the internet was the first native digital medium for information. And this has big implications for business and the corporation. https://hbr.org/2016/05/the-impact-of-the-blockchain-goes-beyond-financial-s... .
Regards.
______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva, Nairobi, Kenya twitter.com/lordmwesh
On 1 July 2016 at 11:00, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Ahmed,
Thank you for your intervention. How do we convert this wonderfull idea into a simple policy statement that can support innovation and research and developement, please feel free to edit the policy document on the Jadili platform to make sure it captures this suggestion. We can refine it during the face to face meeting. Here is the link http://jadili.ictpolicy.org/docs/kenya-ict-policy.
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen < http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-... , and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and
Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation -
On 7/1/16, Ahmed Mohamed Maawy via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: that the
future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT < http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa...
and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data < http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-star... . We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru.
not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in
It's life
or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates*
beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August
+254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at
https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kivuva%40transworldafr...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/erick.mwangi%40gmail.c...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Many thanks Kivuva, Indeed i hope we can be allowed to include something on blockchain in the policy. @ Walu will guide us on whether we are out of order, could you please insert the statement into the draft policy on the Jadili platform?, i see our face to face meeting being very hot. Regards On 7/1/16, Mwendwa Kivuva <Kivuva@transworldafrica.com> wrote:
Barrack, please not that you have jumped the gun. Blockchain and cryptocurrency is not in the Draft Policy. :-)
As you can see from the sentiments, the pioneers of tech want to hear the government voice on the same. *I hope after this public consultation, we will see a paragraph about blockchains in the draft.* It can be a high level paragraph that read
*x) Blockchains: We acknowledge the tremendous potential of the blockchain technology in transforming various sectors of our economy and their application in governance especially smart contracts. As the innovations progress, Kenya is committed to adopt the technology in our society. *
It has been said before that "That blockchain technology will have an impact equal to the creation of the Internet ..."
The Harvard Business Review conducted a two-year research project exploring how blockchain technology can change the way we securely move and store host "money, titles, deeds, music, art, scientific discoveries, intellectual property, and even votes" It states that blockchain is the first native digital medium for value, just as the internet was the first native digital medium for information. And this has big implications for business and the corporation. https://hbr.org/2016/05/the-impact-of-the-blockchain-goes-beyond-financial-s... .
Regards.
______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva, Nairobi, Kenya twitter.com/lordmwesh
On 1 July 2016 at 11:00, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Ahmed,
Thank you for your intervention. How do we convert this wonderfull idea into a simple policy statement that can support innovation and research and developement, please feel free to edit the policy document on the Jadili platform to make sure it captures this suggestion. We can refine it during the face to face meeting. Here is the link http://jadili.ictpolicy.org/docs/kenya-ict-policy.
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen < http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-... , and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and
Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT < http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa...
and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data < http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-star... . We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of
New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August
On 7/1/16, Ahmed Mohamed Maawy via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: that the 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their
DNA.
I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/info%40alyhussein.com
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at
https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/ultimateprogramer%40gm...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kivuva%40transworldafr...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
@Barrack, @Kivuva et. al. We are in order, to discuss what is in the published draft, as well as what is not. We are actually free to digest and thrash out the whole draft as long as we can put an alternative draft on the table. Alternatively we can beef up, correct and enhance the current one.. The Terms of Reference was for us to think outside, inside and beyond the box :-) So Blockchains and any other 'chains' you can think of - bring them on as long you justify their importance in terms of catering for them from a Policy perspective. walu. From: Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> To: jwalu@yahoo.com Cc: Barrack Otieno <otieno.barrack@gmail.com>; KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> Sent: Friday, July 1, 2016 6:14 PM Subject: Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things) Many thanks Kivuva, Indeed i hope we can be allowed to include something on blockchain in the policy. @ Walu will guide us on whether we are out of order, could you please insert the statement into the draft policy on the Jadili platform?, i see our face to face meeting being very hot. Regards On 7/1/16, Mwendwa Kivuva <Kivuva@transworldafrica.com> wrote:
Barrack, please not that you have jumped the gun. Blockchain and cryptocurrency is not in the Draft Policy. :-)
As you can see from the sentiments, the pioneers of tech want to hear the government voice on the same. *I hope after this public consultation, we will see a paragraph about blockchains in the draft.* It can be a high level paragraph that read
*x) Blockchains: We acknowledge the tremendous potential of the blockchain technology in transforming various sectors of our economy and their application in governance especially smart contracts. As the innovations progress, Kenya is committed to adopt the technology in our society. *
It has been said before that "That blockchain technology will have an impact equal to the creation of the Internet ..."
The Harvard Business Review conducted a two-year research project exploring how blockchain technology can change the way we securely move and store host "money, titles, deeds, music, art, scientific discoveries, intellectual property, and even votes" It states that blockchain is the first native digital medium for value, just as the internet was the first native digital medium for information. And this has big implications for business and the corporation. https://hbr.org/2016/05/the-impact-of-the-blockchain-goes-beyond-financial-s... .
Regards.
______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva, Nairobi, Kenya twitter.com/lordmwesh
On 1 July 2016 at 11:00, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Ahmed,
Thank you for your intervention. How do we convert this wonderfull idea into a simple policy statement that can support innovation and research and developement, please feel free to edit the policy document on the Jadili platform to make sure it captures this suggestion. We can refine it during the face to face meeting. Here is the link http://jadili.ictpolicy.org/docs/kenya-ict-policy.
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen < http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-... , and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and
Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html> - Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for the next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT < http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa...
and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy and sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data < http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-star... . We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with the general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of
New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August
On 7/1/16, Ahmed Mohamed Maawy via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote: that the 2010.
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us share more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their
DNA.
I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
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Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/kivuva%40transworldafr...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A _______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/jwalu%40yahoo.com The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development. KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Regarding Compliance 1) Compliances are aimed at bringing accountability to the profession (keeping clients interest ahead) 2) Rules are directed at objective thinking over discretionary management (this is where Mandates are prestated) 3) The initiative is North American and adopted by other markets, taking global policy standardization into account So the point of regulation in my opinion does not conflict with the idea of delivery or solution whichever it will be. The point of regulation, rather enhances the theme of global one stop shop, which has not happened yet more because of fragmented markets and lack of universal system thinking. Eric M On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 4:42 PM, Walubengo J via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
@Barrack, @Kivuva et. al.
We are in order, to discuss what is in the published draft, as well as what is not. We are actually free to digest and thrash out the whole draft as long as we can put an alternative draft on the table. Alternatively we can beef up, correct and enhance the current one..
The Terms of Reference was for us to think outside, inside and beyond the box :-)
So Blockchains and any other 'chains' you can think of - bring them on as long you justify their importance in terms of catering for them from a Policy perspective.
walu.
------------------------------ *From:* Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> *To:* jwalu@yahoo.com *Cc:* Barrack Otieno <otieno.barrack@gmail.com>; KICTAnet ICT Policy Discussions <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> *Sent:* Friday, July 1, 2016 6:14 PM *Subject:* Re: [kictanet] Draft National ICT Policy Discussions Day 8 of 10: Emerging Issues ( Big Data, Bitcoin, Internet of Things)
Many thanks Kivuva,
Indeed i hope we can be allowed to include something on blockchain in the policy. @ Walu will guide us on whether we are out of order, could you please insert the statement into the draft policy on the Jadili platform?, i see our face to face meeting being very hot.
Regards
On 7/1/16, Mwendwa Kivuva <Kivuva@transworldafrica.com> wrote:
Barrack, please not that you have jumped the gun. Blockchain and cryptocurrency is not in the Draft Policy. :-)
As you can see from the sentiments, the pioneers of tech want to hear the government voice on the same. *I hope after this public consultation, we will see a paragraph about blockchains in the draft.* It can be a high level paragraph that read
*x) Blockchains: We acknowledge the tremendous potential of the blockchain technology in transforming various sectors of our economy and their application in governance especially smart contracts. As the innovations progress, Kenya is committed to adopt the technology in our society. *
It has been said before that "That blockchain technology will have an impact equal to the creation of the Internet ..."
The Harvard Business Review conducted a two-year research project exploring how blockchain technology can change the way we securely move and store host "money, titles, deeds, music, art, scientific discoveries, intellectual property, and even votes" It states that blockchain is the first native digital medium for value, just as the internet was the first native digital medium for information. And this has big implications for business and the corporation.
.
Regards.
______________________ Mwendwa Kivuva, Nairobi, Kenya twitter.com/lordmwesh
On 1 July 2016 at 11:00, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Ahmed,
Thank you for your intervention. How do we convert this wonderfull idea into a simple policy statement that can support innovation and research and developement, please feel free to edit the policy document on the Jadili platform to make sure it captures this suggestion. We can refine it during the face to face meeting. Here is the link http://jadili.ictpolicy.org/docs/kenya-ict-policy.
On 7/1/16, Ahmed Mohamed Maawy via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
I think there is a huge statement being made by Samsung with their move to Tizen <
http://venturebeat.com/2015/09/02/samsung-has-shown-its-serious-about-tizen-...
, and apparently bold statements being made with regards to Android (and that Tizen will be the platform of choice). Outwardly the world will tell Samsung that they can not openly compete with Google on this.
But then there’s something we are not seeing in this whole equation - the future of technology and computing.
Major players are all looking to invest in IoT and Big Data. Because in a world of 6 Billion people in the Information and Knowledge revolution, IoT is not something that may happen. It will. Because according to IBM <https://www-01.ibm.com/software/data/bigdata/what-is-big-data.html>
Every day, we create 2.5 quintillion bytes of data. And this is why Samsung might win big. They are not building for now. They are building for
next 2 to 5 years to come.
Kenya faces a magnitude of challenges home made technology can solve. And technology does exist for us to create sustainable solutions - and create markets for sustainable solutions, as SwahiliBox had demonstrated close to a year back when we had very much earlier predicted the marriage between Big Data and IoT <
http://swahilibox.co.ke/blog/2015/06/open-data-and-the-iot-bootcamp--mombasa...
and we had developed prototypes that were even open sourced <https://github.com/SwahiliBox/OpenDataIoT> to demonstrate how easy
and
sustainable it can be to develop next generation solutions making use of both Big Data and IoT.
Bwana Waziri, I think as a market this is one of the major areas we need to focus on - and that we are seriously neglecting. We can not keep on innovating on top of ERPs and M-Pesas and that is just it. Silicon Valley's innovative potential does not just encompass systems like Adobe Photoshop, but also innovations on top of IoT and Big Data <
http://www.crn.com/slide-shows/networking/300079090/the-ten-coolest-iot-star...
. We need to innovate hardware that can be relevant within the African Context - Hardware that can then hook up with the ERPs and M-Pesas, and maybe bring to life a whole different export channel to other countries and governments looking for sustainable hardware solutions. And Kenya can do this.
We need to push more resources into innovating around Big Data, Cloud and IoT. As a market we can only achieve maximum innovative potential in adopting the trends that players like Samsung, Intel, IBM, and the likes are investing billions of dollars to get right.
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 5:30 AM, Ali Hussein via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Barrack and all
For the first time Net Neutrality is being given a voice. But not far enough. We need clear direction on this important issue. Where do we stand on:-
*Net Neutrality* 1. Third party liability? 2. Fair and equitable treatment of Internet traffic? 3. Zero rating of services? 4. I understand that Tespok did a study that showed an increase in data revenue from OTT and messaging services like YouTube and WhatsApp. It would be interesting if we could see that report or failure of which (as Tespok is a member based Organisation and may choose not to share it with
general public) CA may need to step in. 5. Finally can the new regime tell us once and for all whether Kenya finally signed WCIT12 and what prompted the change of heart?
*Mobile Money and the new reality of Blockchain Technology.* Let's not beat about the bush here. The very leadership position that has been achieved by our adaption of Mobile Money is at risk by burying our heads in the sand when it comes to Blockchain Technology.
We need to stop thumping our chests about the phenomenal success of Mpesa. The reality is that Mpesa is only successful here in Kenya and a few other countries. Mpesa stopped innovating in this space years ago. It's time for a new reality. Mpesa is yesterday's news. Let's start creating a new narrative. We need a Global Champion. The likes of PayPal, eBay, Google etc. and we have it in us to do it.
Kenya, and Africa are again at risk of being left behind. No other than the Governor of the Central Bank is on record saying that we shall wait and see what the West does before jumping in. I respect the man alot but I think engagement with the nascent Fintech Space in Nairobi together with the ICT Ministry is long overdue. We MUST chart our own path - And it needs to be a pioneering path not a follower path. We need a clear policy statement from the ICT Ministry on this.
I'm reliably informed that the ICT Ministry and the Central Bank has formed or will form a joint committee to look into the adaption of BlockChain Technology. I may have missed this but is there a representative(s) from the private/banking/Fintech space? Sometimes I get the feeling that this country's leaders still don't get the spirit of the New Constitution we promulgated in 2010. I would like to humbly remind ourselves of this:-
The *constitution* was presented to the Attorney General of *Kenya* on 7 April 2010, officially published on 6 May 2010, and was subjected to a referendum on 4 August 2010. The *new Constitution* was approved by 67% of *Kenyan* voters. The *constitution* was promulgated on 27 August
In the spirit of Uzalendo and moving this country forward let us
share
more and consult more extensively. This exercise of subjecting the new ICT Policy to this level of public scrutiny and intellectual discourse on a list like Kictanet is unprecedented. And highly commendable, This certainly shows the willingness and openness of the leadership of CS Mucheru. It's not a coincidence that he and PS Victor Kyalo are founder members of Kictanet. Intellectual discourse, sharing and engagement is in their DNA. I must however caution them that they must shine daylight into *EVERYTHING* that involves the public good. This new discussion on Blockchains is good for the public and the nascent FinTech community. We *CANNOT* and *MUST NOT *let vested interests prevail in the corridors of power at the detriment of the country at large.
It may well be that this country decides that BlockChain Technology will do more harm than good to us. However, I humbly suggest that decision should not be left to a few individuals. No matter their station in life or government. A robust platform of discussion and consultation spearheaded by the ICT and Treasury Ministries must be held. And this must be kicked off as soon as possible because time's a-wastin'.
My humble two cents..
*Ali Hussein* *Principal* *Hussein & Associates* +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375
Twitter: @AliHKassim
Skype: abu-jomo
LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim
"Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and
what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi
Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable
behaviors
online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable
behaviors
online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect
https://hbr.org/2016/05/the-impact-of-the-blockchain-goes-beyond-financial-s... - the the thinking privacy, privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- *Ahmed Maawy* Executive Director - SwahiliBox / M-Power (CBO) Curator - Global Shapers Mombasa Hub Ambassador - Open Knowledge Director - Startup Grind Mombasa Software Developer - AJ+ / EveryLayer (KE) +254 714 960 627 Skype: ultimateprogramer
swahilibox.co.ke globalshapers.org www.okfn.org <http://okfn.org/> startupgrind.com ajplus.net www.everylayer.com
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy,
do
not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
Listers To add on to my earlier post here's an excerpt from Business Intelligence on the potential impact of The new paradigm in Financial Technology:- We’ve entered the most profound era of change for financial services companies since the 1970s brought us index mutual funds, discount brokers and ATMs. No firm (or country - my addition) is immune from the coming disruption and every company must have a strategy to harness the powerful advantages of the new financial technology (“fintech”) revolution. The battle already underway will create surprising winners and stunned losers among some of the most powerful names in the financial world: The most contentious conflicts (and partnerships) will be between startups that are completely reengineering decades-old practices, traditional power players who are furiously trying to adapt with their own innovations, and total disruption of established technology & processes: Traditional Retail Banks vs. Online-Only Banks: Traditional retail banks provide a valuable service, but online-only banks can offer many of the same services with higher rates and lower fees. Traditional Lenders vs. Peer-to-Peer Marketplaces: P2P lending marketplaces are growing much faster than traditional lenders—only time will tell if the banks strategy of creating their own small loan networks will be successful. Traditional Asset Managers vs. Robo-Advisors: Robo-advisors like Betterment offer lower fees, lower minimums and solid returns to investors, but the much larger traditional asset managers are creating their own robo-products while providing the kind of handholding that high net worth clients are willing to pay handsomely for. As you can see, this very fluid environment is creating winners and losers before your eyes…and it’s also creating the potential for new cost savings or growth opportunities for both you and your company. Ali Hussein Principal Hussein & Associates +254 0713 601113 / 0770906375 Twitter: @AliHKassim Skype: abu-jomo LinkedIn: http://ke.linkedin.com/in/alihkassim "Discovery consists in seeing what everyone else has seen and thinking what no one else has thought". ~ Albert Szent-Györgyi Sent from my iPad
On 1 Jul 2016, at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
The recognition and inclusion of Big Data and IOT in the ICT policy is a great idea and particularly at such a time when data analytics is increasingly becoming a critical component in decision making. Data are fundamental building blocks of information, knowledge and innovation and without doubt the new factor of production. To actualize this portion of the policy, perhaps a brief initial study needs to be undertaken with a view of building preliminary understanding of the landscape for big data for development in Kenya, and Identify key research questions and priorities. This initial study could focus on the following aspects:- 1) *Value* - What value is being created and who are gaining this value? 2)* Innovation* - What is be the nature of innovation being done by the use of big data? Who are the key actors in this innovation process? 3) *Implementation* - what are the enablers and constraints being faced, throughout the data value chain 4) *Ethics* - What are the emerging ethical concerns with regard to data quality and privacy? It would be desirable to have a national big data strategy in place and hopefully not too far in the future. Best Regards, Mutuvi On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
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The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- There is always a way where there is a will.>>
Many thanks Steve for your intervention you are right, since we might not have time to do the research how else can we embed this issue in the policy as a way of making it futuristic?, feel free to edit the policy on the Jadili platform. On 7/1/16, steve mutuvi via kictanet <kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
The recognition and inclusion of Big Data and IOT in the ICT policy is a great idea and particularly at such a time when data analytics is increasingly becoming a critical component in decision making. Data are fundamental building blocks of information, knowledge and innovation and without doubt the new factor of production.
To actualize this portion of the policy, perhaps a brief initial study needs to be undertaken with a view of building preliminary understanding of the landscape for big data for development in Kenya, and Identify key research questions and priorities. This initial study could focus on the following aspects:-
1) *Value* - What value is being created and who are gaining this value? 2)* Innovation* - What is be the nature of innovation being done by the use of big data? Who are the key actors in this innovation process? 3) *Implementation* - what are the enablers and constraints being faced, throughout the data value chain 4) *Ethics* - What are the emerging ethical concerns with regard to data quality and privacy?
It would be desirable to have a national big data strategy in place and hopefully not too far in the future.
Best Regards, Mutuvi
On Fri, Jul 1, 2016 at 1:33 AM, Barrack Otieno via kictanet < kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke> wrote:
Day 8 of 10:
* Internet of Things, M2M * Net Neutrality & OTT * Big Data * Virtual Money/BlockChains
The Background:
Internet of Things is a vision (now a reality) of physical objects (machines, vehicles, buildings, etc) fitted with sensors that allow them to communicate with each other. The smart-city concept envisions sensors continuously reporting status (e.g Traffic status, Pollution Status, Maintenance Status) of the different objects to allow for efficient management response. A lot of data exchanges arises hence the term Big Data with its associated data analytics requirements.
Meanwhile, Virtual Money/Currency (Bitcoin, etc) threatens to disrupt the need for a centralised banking institutions. Over The Top (Skype, Twitter, FB, Youtube) have been around longer but the need to regulate or NOT to regulate them continues to be debated.
Given recent developments on the KiCTANET list on Virtual money what should our position on these and other emerging issues be from a policy perspective ? is there need to embrace the issues?
Your comments are welcome
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
_______________________________________________ kictanet mailing list kictanet@lists.kictanet.or.ke https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/listinfo/kictanet
Unsubscribe or change your options at https://lists.kictanet.or.ke/mailman/options/kictanet/stevemutuvi%40gmail.co...
The Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) is a multi-stakeholder platform for people and institutions interested and involved in ICT policy and regulation. The network aims to act as a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector in support of the national aim of ICT enabled growth and development.
KICTANetiquette : Adhere to the same standards of acceptable behaviors online that you follow in real life: respect people's times and bandwidth, share knowledge, don't flame or abuse or personalize, respect privacy, do not spam, do not market your wares or qualifications.
-- There is always a way where there is a will.>>
-- Barrack O. Otieno +254721325277 +254733206359 Skype: barrack.otieno PGP ID: 0x2611D86A
participants (11)
-
Ahmed Mohamed Maawy
-
Ali Hussein
-
Barrack Otieno
-
Erick Mwangi
-
Grace Githaiga
-
Muthoni Masinde
-
Mwendwa Kivuva
-
Sean Moroney
-
steve mutuvi
-
Timothy- Coach- Oriedo
-
Walubengo J