Introduction
The digital age has provided immense opportunities for social, economic, and political participation. However, it has also introduced significant challenges, including online gender-based violence (OGBV), arbitrary surveillance, and data misuse, which disproportionately affect women, human rights defenders, journalists, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. To address these challenges, KICTANet, through funding from GIZ, proposes to conduct in-person training in Machakos focused on data protection and cyber hygiene practices for these vulnerable groups.
Background
KICTANet’s 2022 policy brief on “Data Protection and Privacy from a Gender Perspective” highlights the critical risks posed by digital footprints, such as exposure to OGBV and surveillance. Further, The “Unmasking the Trolls“ report by KICTANet highlighted Machakos among the counties with the highest notable cases of OGBV from the counties where the research on OGBV was conducted, making them ideal locations for these interventions.
Over the past few years, Kenya has made some strides in establishing a regulatory framework that seeks to safeguard data privacy and ensure cybersecurity. This can be seen through the enactment of the Data Protection Act No. 24 of 2019 and the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act No. 5 of 2018. These laws provide guidelines on how personal data should be handled, protect individuals from cybercrimes, and define penalties for misuse of information and online security breaches. This framework aims to enhance trust in digital platforms, support the growth of the digital economy, and align with international standards on data protection and cybersecurity. However, this project seeks to bridge a gap in awareness and capacity-building among vulnerable populations.
Objectives of the Training
- Equip 40 participants with knowledge of data protection laws and their applications.
- Build capacity on data protection and cyber hygiene practices to mitigate risks of OGBV and data misuse.
- Foster an understanding of the intersectionality of digital rights, gender, and online safety.
- Encourage participants to advocate for safe and inclusive digital spaces within their communities.
Expected Outcomes
- Increased awareness and application of data protection and cyber hygiene practices among participants
- Strengthened ability to identify, report, and address cases of OGBV and data misuse
- Creation of a network of advocates promoting safe digital spaces in Machakos.
- Contribution to policy advocacy by documenting insights and recommendations from participants
Format of the Training
The format of this on-site training shall include presentations, group discussions, and a plenary session.
About the Organizers
KICTANet is a multistakeholder think tank for ICT policy and regulation whose guiding philosophy encourages synergies for ICT policy-related activities and initiatives. The network is a catalyst for reform in the ICT sector and is guided by four pillars: policy advocacy, stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and research. The network provides mechanisms and a framework for continuing cooperation and collaboration in ICT matters among industry, technical community, academia, media, development partners, and government.
Enhancing Data Protection and Cyber Hygiene for Vulnerable Groups in Machakos
Capacity Building Workshop
Dates: 7 March 2025
Venue: Machakos (TBC)
Agenda
| Time | Session | Presenter/Moderator |
| 08:00–08:15 | ARRIVAL AND REGISTRATION | KICTANet |
| 08:15–08:30 | Welcome Remarks and Participant Introductions
Ice-breaker |
Cherie Oyier, KICTANet |
| 08:30–09:30 | Overview of Data Protection in the Counties and Role of the ODPC | ODPC |
| 09:30–10:30 | Understanding Data Protection Laws in Kenya | Legal Consultant, KICTANet |
| 10:30–11:00 | TEA BREAK | |
| 11:00–12:00 | Addressing Technology-Facilitated OGBV | Cherie Oyier, KICTANet |
| 12:00–13:00 | Cyber Hygiene: Best Practices for Online Safety | Cybersecurity expert, KICTANet |
| 13:00–14:00 | LUNCH BREAK | |
| 14:00–1500 | Reporting Mechanisms and Legal Redress | Legal Consultant, Cherie Oyier, KICTANet, Valarie Waswa |
| 15:00–1600 | Group Work: Developing Action Plans | Consultant, KICTANet |
| 16:00–16:30 | Wrap-Up and Way Forward | KICTANet |
| 16:30–17:00 | HEALTH BREAK AND NETWORKING | |
