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Timid regulation hindering tech adoption in Africa

Africa , 03 Oct 2017

Timid regulation hindering tech adoption in Africa

Experts have decried the blatant lack of favourable policies in enacting progressive technologies on the continent.

Speaking at the Microsoft Policy Innovation Centre launch at Strathmore University in Nairobi, Louis Otieno, Director at Microsoft4Afrika said that the adoption of white TV spaces in providing high speed broadband has been crippled by lack of policies in the continent.

"We are at a place where technology has evolved and we are able to use TV spectrum, a technology that has been available in the entire history of this country," Otieno said. "The reason we are not using this technology is because there is no policy."

Otieno also highlighted a lack of Blockchain policies which has stalled the use of the technology in various industries.

Christopher Akiwumi, Director for Government and Regulatory Affairs for Microsoft Middle East and Africa hailed the launch of the innovation centre saying that since technology is affecting every facet of business and government, such spaces will allow for widespread consultation.

"With the Fourth Industrial Revolution upon us – new advancements in technology are changing the way we live our lives and how we interact. The benefits are endless, having the potential to transform businesses, countries, and make way for innovations for consumers and create economic opportunities," Akiwumi said.

"The Microsoft Policy Innovation Centre is one of a kind in Africa and we felt it should be located in a law school," Akiwumi said.

Microsoft has provided software, solutions and training for the implementation of the project. The Policy and Innovation Centre will be equipped with Office 365, providing users with productivity tools, to enhance their day-to-day experience. Teleconferencing equipment has also been provided.

The auditorium will be opened for academia, industry and policy experts including government officials. They will tackle issues beginning with the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals and digital transformation.

Dr Luis Franceschi, the Dean of the law school at Strathmore, hoped that the centre will also help lawyers, judges and other judicial officers to understand the connection between the law and technology.

"Here we will have policy meetings and it is not restricted to law. Policy makers can collaborate with partners across the world," Franceschi said.

He added that the challenges faced in implementing the Cybersecurity bill in Kenya and other related technology legislation will be discussed with the intent to identify and nurture solutions.

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