The Friendly Troll
The Friendly Troll offers observations of the global tech industry from the perspective of the Global South. It aims to enlighten listeners and explore interesting topics from a new point of view. The podcast is produced by CIPIT, the Centre for Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law, at Strathmore University in Nairobi, Kenya.
Episodes
Financial Inclusion vs. Data Protection: Can We Have Both?
In this episode of The Friendly Troll Podcast, host Josephine Kaaniru is joined by Mr. Kevin Mutiso, Chair of the Digital Financial Services Association of Kenya (DFSAK), to explore how the digital lending industry has evolved with regard to privacy practices, due to the enforcement of the Data Protection Act.With just a smartphone and an ID number, Kenyans can access loans in minutes, no collater
Government Digital Services and Digital ID in Zambia
In this episode of The Friendly Troll Podcast, host Josephine Kaaniru is joined by Irene Makau to explore the governance of Digital ID systems and government digital services in Zambia. Drawing from CIPIT’s latest publication “Report on the Study of Government Digital Services and Digital ID in Kenya and Zambia” they discuss the legal and institutional frameworks that underpin these systems, ident
2025 in Review: Africa’s AI Policy & Governance Landscape
In this episode of The Friendly Troll Podcast, the AI Policy Team at CIPIT, Josephine Kaaniru, Irene Makau, and Cynthia Nzuki, join their Team Lead and host, Florence Ogonjo, to unpack the year’s major activities and developments in Africa’s AI policy landscape. They walk through key research outputs, events, and evolving trends in AI governance, while also sharing updates on the AI Policy Team’s
Government Digital Services and Digital ID in Kenya
In this episode of The Friendly Troll Podcast, host Calvin Mulindwa is joined by Mustafa Mahmoud to explore the governance of Digital ID systems and government digital services in Kenya and Zambia. Drawing from CIPIT’s latest publication "Report on the Study of Government Digital Services and Digital ID in Kenya and Zambia" they discuss the legal and institutional frameworks that underpi
AI in Africa Edition- Reflections from the 2nd Conference on the State of AI in Africa (COSAA 2025)
In this episode, CIPIT’s Josephine Kaaniru and Florence Ogonjo share reflections from the 2nd Conference on the State of AI in Africa (COSAA 2025), themed “Shaping Responsible and Ethical AI Governance, Policy, and Regulation in Africa.” They unpack key highlights from the event from transformative discussions on AI policy and ethical frameworks to the challenges and opportunities shaping Africa’
Digital Harm: Canvassing TFGBV in Kenya Through a Legal Lens
Episode Overview:In this episode of the Friendly Troll Podcast, we tackle the pressing issue of Technology Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) in Kenya. Florence Ogonjo and Doreen Abiero, researchers at CIPIT, joined by Cherie Oyier from KICTANET, share their insights on the various forms of TFGBV, its prevalence in Kenya, and its impact on survivors. We also discuss the existing legal frame
The Right to Research in Africa: Exploring the Interface between Copyright and Human Rights - A Book Review
In this episode, Dr. Melissa Omino is joined by Dr. Desmond Oriakhogba, an Associate Professor at The University of the Western Cape. Dr. Oriakhogba is an expert in Intellectual Property and Competition Law. Dr. Omino and Dr. Oriakhogba have an in-depth discussion on Dr. Oriakhogba’s book, The Right to Research in Africa: Exploring the Interface between Copyright and Human Rights. The book explore
Faragha ya Kidijitali Nchini Kenya: Haki za Picha na Ulinzi wa Kisheria
Katika kipindi hiki cha "The Friendly Troll," msimulizi Calvin Mulindwa anachunguza kwa kina haki za picha nchini Kenya, akiangazia msingi wao wa kisheria na athari zake katika dunia halisi. Kipindi hiki kinachambua maana ya haki za picha, pamoja na haki ya kudhibiti matumizi ya sura ya mtu katika maeneo ya umma na biashara. Calvin anajadili sheria muhimu kama vile Sheria ya Ulinzi wa Da
Digital Privacy in Kenya: Navigating Image Rights and Legal Protections
In this episode of "The Friendly Troll," host Calvin Mulindwa delves into the intricacies of image rights in Kenya, focusing on their legal basis and real-world implications. The episode explores what image rights entail, including the right to control the use of one's likeness in public and commercial domains. Calvin discusses key legislation such as the Kenyan Data Protection Act
Emerging Trends in Image Rights and Social Media
In this episode Florence Ogonjo is joined by Dr. Nomalanga Mashinini a senior lecturer at the University of the Witwatersrand, where she facilitates the LLM Cyberlaw course. Dr. Nomalanga is founder and host of the podcast ‘Image Rights by N Mashinini’. Florence and Nomalanga have an in-depth discussion on the foundational basics of image rights and how social media has changed how image rights is
Machine Learning in Healthcare
In this exciting episode, CIPIT’s very own researcher Natasha Karanja explores the groundbreaking impact of machine learning in revolutionising healthcare across the African continent. Join us on a journey through cutting-edge applications, from predictive diagnostics to personalised treatment plans, as we showcase how AI is enhancing medical outcomes and bridging healthcare gaps.Music:Intro/Outr
AI and Human Rights - Sustainable Use of AI to Promote Human Rights
In this thought-provoking episode, Florence Ogonjo explores the intersection between Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights. Join us as we unravel the ethical complexities, challenges, and promises that arise when cutting-edge technology meets the core tenets of our shared humanity. Through real-world examples, this episode dissects the potential of AI to both empower and infringe upon human rig
Is AI really an existential threat? How is the law trying to prevent this existential threat worldwide and in Africa? A generalised discussion of main Responsible AI policies & principles.
In this episode, CIPIT Researcher, Josephine Kaaniru, gives a brief overview of what Responsible AI entails. Join her on a journey that highlights the looming AI threats like bias and the dangers of AI in conflict situations, navigates the guiding principles shaping responsible AI, and imagines the contours of an African Responsible AI framework designed to meet the unique challenges and opportuni
AI and Internet Security/ Safety: Censoring on Content Posted by Users
In this episode hosted by Doreen Abiero, the spotlight is on the intersection of AI, internet security, and content censorship in Kenya. The narrative unfolds as AI serves as a vigilant guardian, navigating the delicate balance between freedom of expression and safety, highlighted by the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act. The ongoing debate around regulating social media platforms adds complexit
Insights on Digital Rights In Africa
In this episode Florence Ogonjo is joined by a guest Adeboro Odunlami of AIRA (Africa Internet Rights Alliance) as they focus on the trends and insights noted in digital rights in Africa throughout the year. They also look at challenges faced by digital rights activists and the future of digital rights in the continent.ResourcesAfrica Internet Rights Alliance - AIRAhttps://aira.africa/Contextualiz
Building Public Interest Technology
In this episode, CIPIT’s very own researcher Natasha Karanja explores the transformative impact of Public Interest Technology (PIT) and its role in shaping a more inclusive and responsive digital future. Join us and gain insights into the principles guiding the development of technology that serves the public interest and learn how you can be part of the movement to build a more socially conscious
Effects of ChatGPT
In this episode, CIPIT researchers, Josephine Kaaniru and Dan Allan Kipkoech answer the question on all of our minds; Will ChatGPT take my job? The researchers begin by introducing Chatgpt, especially in the context of Artificial Intelligence (AI). They then consider how ChatGPT has influenced work so far, with real life examples of both positive and negative impacts on labour. Finally, they consi
AI and its Imperialist Roots
In this exciting episode , CIPIT’s very own researcher Natasha Karanja takes us on a journey of exploring the historical roots of AI through an imperialist lens. The episode aims to explore the imperialist nature of AI and how it has shaped the trajectory of its development. The episode uncovers the geopolitical forces and power dynamics that have influenced the development of AI. Sit back and let
Data Rights and Governance for Ethical AI
Listen to Doreen Abiero in this captivating episode as we unravel the story of Data Rights and Governance for Ethical AI in Africa. Encounter the digital divide as a formidable adversary and Africa's cultural diversity as the unexpected hero. This episode explores the implementation of ethical AI frameworks, a pivotal chapter shaped by government collaboration. Through inspiring tales in hea
AI in the Judicial System
In this episode, Florence Ogonjo delves into the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence within the hallowed halls of the judiciary. Join us as we unravel the intricate tapestry of AI applications in legal processes and the profound implications for justice systems. Discover the promises and challenges as we navigate the fine line between efficiency and ethical considerations. Can AI trul
The US Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership: An overview of Digital Trade
In this episode, Calvin Mulindwa talks about the Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership that is currently being negotiated between Kenya and the United States. This episode focuses on the digital trade particular chapter of the S.T.I.P.Resources:Digital Trade and the S.T.I.P blog post - The US-Kenya FTA Insights (theuskenyaftainsights.org)Agreement between the United States of America, Mexico
The right to research and copyright law in Kenya: Text and Data Mining
In this episode, Cynthia Nzuki explores copyright law and the right to research in Kenya, with a focus on text and data mining research. Gain valuable insights into Kenya's legal landscape and technology-enabled research.Resources: Policy Brief - Right to Research and Copyright Law in Kenya: Text and Data Mining. https://cipit.strathmore.edu/right-to-research-and-copyright-law-in-kenya-text-a
3 years a Data Protection Act, ODPC and the future
In this episode, Francis Monyango and Mutua Mutuku discuss the Data Protection Act turning 3 years, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner and the digital lenders' enforcement notice.Resources:1. The Data Protection Act http://kenyalaw.org/kl/fileadmin/pdfdownloads/Acts/2019/TheDataProtectionAct__No24of2019.pdf2. The Data Protection (General) Regulations https://www.dataguidance.com/s
Data Protection Regulations, 2021: A continued conversation feat. Mugambi Laibuta
In this episode, Dr. Melissa Omino and Mugambi Laibuta discuss the recently published data regulations under the Data Protection Act 2019 of Kenya.Resources:1. The Friendly Troll Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/the-friendly-troll/id14885738832. Ole Law Podcast https://anchor.fm/lexole/episodes/Privacy-and-Personal-Data-Protection-eh9qu63. Mugambi Laibuta's Blog: https://www.lai
Public Participation in FTAs: The UK Kenya EPA
Continuing the series on the US - KE FTA, this episode brings you key insights on public participation in trade agreements put into context by the recent confusion surrounding the UK - Kenya EPA. What can be learnt from this? How can effective and meaningful public participation be carried out for FTAs? This episode answers these questions by highlighting the legal framework for public participati
Software, copyright, and Fair Use/Dealing - the Case of Google v. Oracle
A recent decision in the US Supreme Court held that copying parts of an application program interface is a "fair use" under US Copyright Law. In this episode, Isaac Rutenberg looks at whether a similar ruling would result in a "fair dealing" framework, and the wider implications of the case. Thanks to the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) for general support of C
The US-Kenya FTA: Data Protection aspects of the Agreement from a Kenyan perspective
In this episode, Dr. Melissa Omino and Mugambi Laibuta discuss data protection aspects of the proposed US Kenya FTA from a Kenyan perspective. Resources:1. The Friendly Troll Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ke/podcast/the-friendly-troll/id14885738832. Ole Law Podcast https://anchor.fm/lexole/episodes/Privacy-and-Personal-Data-Protection-eh9qu63. Mugambi Laibuta's Blog: https://www.laibuta
The US-Kenya FTA Part 3 featuring Lori Wallach
In this third episode of the US Kenya FTA Series hosted by Dr Melissa Omino, we are joined by Dr. Isaac Rutenberg the Director of CIPIT, and Lori Wallach, Head Director and Founder of Global Trade Watch, a division of Public Citizen. (link to: https://www.citizen.org/article/lori-wallach-director-public-citizens-global-trade-watch/) It is a great privilege to have Lori as a guest on this episode a
The US-Kenya FTA: What to look out for in Digital Trade and IP Chapters
In continuing with our series on the US-Kenya FTA, this week’s episode grapples with some of the main areas, that may be included in the FTA, that we are pondering on in digital trade and intellectual property. The host for this episode is Dr. Melissa Omino, and the guests are Abdulmalik Adan and Joanna Kahumbu. Agreements mentioned:TRIPS - https://www.wto.org/english/docs_e/legal_e/27-trips.pdf J
The 4IR: What it means for the Global South
Today's episode asks what the 4IR means for the Global South and what it means to take advantage of the potential for growth both in tech and intellectual property.References:Make me Smart podcast:https://www.marketplace.org/shows/make-me-smart-with-kai-and-molly/will-coronavirus-make-it-easier-to-buy-a-home/- The podcast is from 1 July 2020 and not 2 July 2020 as identified in the episode. W
The US - KE Free Trade Agreement Part 1: What's on the table?
This is the first episode in a series on the US-Kenya FTA which is currently under negotiations. In this series, we hope to look at various aspects of what might be included in the final text of the FTA including IP, Digital Rights, and Data Governance. The host for this episode is Dr. Melissa Omino, with research assistance from Joanna Kahumbu. Agreements mentioned:1. AGOA - https://agoa.info/ab
Thought Leaders or Bot Leaders? Astroturfing in the time of Covid-19
This week's episode is a foray into astroturfing - promoting ideas through bots intending to mislead the public - and what this means in the time of Covid -19 Links from the show Make Me Smart - Who's organizing those anti-quarantine protests?https://www.marketplace.org/shows/make-me-smart-with-kai-and-molly/whos-organizing-those-anti-quarantine-protests/The Digital Forensic Research Lab
Student Ventilators: Innovation during a global pandemic
This week's episode tackles the question of Intellectual Property Rights for Ventilators developed by a group of students in Kenya, answering the question of how their rights, if any, can be secured.Links from the showMIT's E-Vent program: https://e-vent.mit.edu/Editing done on AudacityMusic credits: Prelude in C (BWV 846) by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4237-
The Friendly Troll in 2020
Q1 of 2020 feels like a year in itself, which is why on today's episode, we give you something to look forward to. CIPIT's insights on all things tech and tech legal for 2020, what we expect, what we're looking forward to and who we're watching to make crucial moves. Music credits: Prelude in C (BWV 846) by Kevin MacLeodLink: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4237-prelude-
Tech Giants and Competition Law in the Global South
This week's episode chronicles Competition Law (or Antitrust) as seen in the Global South. Our host and co-hosts question what that means for our major players in the digital space including Uber, Jumia and Safaricom.
Big Tech in the Global South
This week's episode covers the tech giants dominating the global south and their role in shaping the tech market and the social sphere in the global south.
Digital ID - Double edged sword for the Global South?
This week’s podcast looks at just how important ID is in for the Global South and what needs to be done to ensure that implementation of digital ID doesn’t fall into the traps associated with utilizing private sector actors in the implementation of State-wide digital ID systems.
Mobile Money Reversal - What can the West Learn
The Friendly Troll is a podcast with observations of the global tech industry from the perspective of the Global South. Our trolling is meant to enlighten listeners and explore interesting topics from a new point of view. The podcast is produced by CIPIT, the Centre for Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law, at Strathmore Law School in Nairobi, Kenya.
