The Friendly Troll
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 University in Nairobi, Kenya.
Episodes
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 ongoing work at CIPIT. This episod...
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 underpin these systems, identify key imple...
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’s digital future.
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 frameworks, the challenges faced by vict...
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 explores the intersection and manifestatio...
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 Data ya Kenya ya 2019 na Ibara y...
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 of 2019 and Article 31 of the Const...
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 perceived both in Kenya and South ...
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/Outro – https://pixabay...
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 rights. How do we safeguard against bi...
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 opportunities of this dynamic technological ...
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 complexity to the struggle. The episode emph...
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.
Resources
Africa Internet Rights Alliance - AIRA
https://aira.africa/
Contextualizing P...
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 consider the potential impact of ChatGPT...
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 tech landscape.
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 us go on this exciting journey.
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 truly enhance justice delivery, or does...
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 healthcare and agriculture, we witness...
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 and Canada Text - Ag...
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-and-data-mining/
- Exploring t...
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