Picture this: You drop off your favorite leather shoes at the cobbler. They're well-worn but beloved, and you're hoping to extend their life. The cobbler nods confidently and says, "Come back in three days." You leave, feeling optimistic.

Three days later, you return to find the stitching is different from what you expected, the color of the new heel doesn't quite match, and there's still a small tear that wasn't addressed. Sound familiar?

This isn't just about shoes. It's a universal experience that teaches us a crucial lesson: Hope is not a strategy.

The United Nations High-level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence report on global governance of AI, outlining concerns and recommending solutions for the global governance of artificial intelligence (AI). The report explores the potential of AI to benefit humanity, including its impact on scientific advancement and economic growth, while acknowledging its risks. The report makes the case for the need for a global governance framework to manage these risks and ensure that the benefits of AI are shared equitably. The report's recommendations include the creation of an international scientific panel, a global fund for AI, and a capacity development network, as well as proposing a new role for the United Nations to lead the international dialogue on AI governance. The report also discusses the importance of international cooperation and the need for a more inclusive approach to AI governance, particularly considering the needs of marginalized communities and developing countries.

Public Notice Call for Comments for ICTA Bill, 2024. MyGov.go.ke

On 9th July 2024, the Kenya ICT Authority published an updated working draft Information And Communications Technology Authority Bill, 2024. This article hopes to reflect on three things;

1. A comparison between this draft and the April 2024 draft.
2. A comparison between the published draft and the current 2013 Presidential Order that constituted the ICT Authority.
3. Reflections on “accreditation” proposed in the draft bill.

While heavily US leaning, here are some takeaways on Kenya (and Africa) from the AI Index Report 2024 released by Stanford Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence (HAI):

1. 👩🏾‍🔬 Africa's Representation in NeurIPS Women in Machine Learning workshop is increasing: In 2023, 8.93% identified as coming from the continent compared to 3.40% in 2022. That's an almost 3x shift

The Nigerian Naira plunged 31% against the dollar , and the Kenyan Shilling lost 23% of its value in the past few months. These top two worst performers in Africa in 2024 are the continent's top two technology powerhouses. Therefore, while currency depreciation has had microeconomic implications, it highlights the dire need to take a critical look at Africa's innovation, technology, and AI ecosystem. Ory Okolloh, a prominent Technologist, Kenyan Investor and Philanthropist, posted this on her LinkedIn:

Her post represents the broader issue of access to computing in today's world and raises the question of digital sovereignty, a catchphrase used in the push for digital regulations.

In the first of a six-part paper, we have developed a framework through which we will contribute to Africans' discussions and perspectives on the design, development, and governance of Artificial Intelligence in Africa. This includes Data and Data Systems, AI Infrastructure, Talent, and Market.

This article was originally published in the Business Daily on 2024-03-07.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands at the forefront of technological innovation. It promises to revolutionise industries and economies worldwide. According to a study by PwC, AI could contribute up to $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030. This staggering figure underscores the immense potential AI holds for driving economic growth and prosperity. However, for e-traders in East-Africa, individuals or businesses that conduct retail operations online, to fully capitalise on this opportunity they must not only embrace AI but also make a deliberate effort to understand its dynamics.

Illustration by Neema Iyer

Civic Tech, eGov and Digital Public Goods walk into a bar…

…the bartender asks, “the usual?” then hands them one drink.

"Only while sleeping one makes no mistakes. Making mistakes is the privilege of the active — of those who can correct their mistakes and put them right."
– Ingvar Kamprad (1926-2018)

Six years after his passing on January 27th, 2018, Ingvar Kamprad's vision and values continue to steer IKEA. His 1976 testament and 1996 dictionary laid out principles that fuelled IKEA's growth from a small business to a global furniture icon. As we mark the anniversary of Kamprad's death, his wisdom on leadership, serving people, embracing humility, and simplicity remains as relevant as ever. These documents were not fixed manifestos, but living guides that still motivate and inspire. By revisiting Kamprad's own words, we reconnect with the human core of IKEA's brand - the deeper purpose beyond products and profits. Though Kamprad is no longer with us, his voice carries on.

Since its release in November 2022, ChatGPT, an AI chatbot from OpenAI, has become a viral phenomenon. It can generate human-like text and carry out natural conversations on a wide range of topics. But, what is the origin of the name "ChatGPT"?

I would have liked to present you with a smorgasbord of data from my life in 2023 instead I have a few words, a few pictures, and a few lists. I hope you enjoy them.