The 18th Kenya Internet Governance Forum (KIGF), held during the inaugural Africa Tech Policy Summit, showcased KICTANet’s role in shaping ICT policy in Kenya and beyond.
Dr Grace Githaiga, CEO of KICTANet, and Ali Hussein, Chair of the Board of Trustees, discussed the organization’s impact in an interview with Ali Talks Tech on the sidelines of the event.
KICTANet’s Mission and Growth
KICTANet, a leading ICT policy think tank, operates through four pillars: research, policy advocacy, capacity building, and stakeholder engagement. Its focus areas include cybersecurity, cyber hygiene, data protection, privacy, and cross-cutting themes like women in technology and inclusion for people with disabilities.
“KICTANet has grown from an email list to a full-fledged organization that catalyzes ICT policy and engages with partners globally,” said Dr. Githaiga, who has led the organization as convenor since 2016.
Kenya IGF: A Platform for Honest Dialogue
The KIGF serves as a multistakeholder platform fostering open discussions on tech policy.
“It’s a space where new policy ideas are dialogued, and stakeholders engage on equal footing,” Dr. Githaiga noted.
This year’s forum highlighted emerging issues, including a Gen Z-led debate on data protection, privacy, and activism, addressing concerns like public figures’ privacy boundaries. Representatives from the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner and the Ombudsman were present, ensuring diverse voices shaped the conversation.
Policy Advocacy and Public Participation
KICTANet emphasises balanced regulation that respects constitutional rights, such as freedom of expression and privacy, while promoting public interest.
“We respond to every call for public participation with detailed memoranda, providing context and alternative suggestions,” Dr. Githaiga explained.
These submissions are shared on KICTANet’s website for transparency and posterity. The organization also proactively analyses laws to strengthen policy frameworks, ensuring stakeholder voices are heard.
Kenya School of Internet Governance (KeSIG)
A flagship initiative, the Kenya School of Internet Governance (KeSIG) trains new voices in policy-making. Evolving from a three-day course to a three-week program, KeSIG introduces participants to internet governance and emerging technologies.
“We have trained around 300 people, with 33 graduating this year, all self-funded due to high demand,” Dr. Githaiga said. The program empowers participants to transition from novices to active policy contributors.
Africa Tech Policy Summit as a Catalyst
The Africa Tech Policy Summit, in its first year, consolidates KICTANet’s policy efforts under one umbrella, fostering regional and global collaboration.
“Our DNA is pushing for rights-respecting ICT policies,” Dr Githaiga stated, emphasising the summit’s role in uniting stakeholders to address pressing tech policy concerns.
A Call for Fresh Voices
KICTANet’s work counters public participation fatigue by nurturing new voices, particularly among youth.
“Policy advocacy can be slow, but showing up and being memorable is critical,” Dr. Githaiga advised. Ali Hussein praised her leadership, noting, “KICTANet is colossal in tech policy, and its growth under Dr. Githaiga’s understated yet effective leadership is remarkable.”