Airbnb operators should be mindful of residents’ concerns
By Henry Ochieng’, KARA CEO
Mombasa County’s plans to regulate Airbnbs has brought to the fore a less-talked about issue regarding alternative accommodations: security.
Why it is important to protect civil space and uphold digital rights
In today's interconnected world, the digital space has become a vital platform for civil society organizations (CSOs), Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), and various groups to advocate for social change, amplify their voices, and mobilize communities. However, this dynamic landscape presents challenges that necessitate the protection of digital rights.
The Power of the Digital Sphere
The digital space provides an unprecedented platform for CSOs, HRDs, and groups to engage with their audiences, mobilize support, and raise awareness about critical issues. This amplification of voices has led to meaningful social change, challenging oppressive systems, advocating for human rights, and promoting inclusivity. There are many examples in Kenya of decision makers acting on issues raised in the digital space. It is for this reason that the Kenya Alliance of Resident Associations (KARA) with support from UNDP Amkeni Wakenya saw the pressing need to safeguard the digital space for civil society and groups in Kenya. However, as the digital space evolves, so do the threats and challenges faced by CSOs and groups.
Governments and authorities, in some cases, impose restrictions on online activities, limiting freedom of expression and civic space. Cyberbullying, harassment, and online attacks targeting activists and organizations have become alarmingly prevalent. A 2021 report by Mozilla Foundation, a non-profit organisation, dubbed “Inside the Shadowy World of Disinformation in Kenya” revealed how some twitter influencers were paid to silence government critics and civil activists. Their job was to discredit journalists, judges, and civil activists on the platform.
Moreover, privacy concerns, data breaches, and online surveillance compromise the safety and integrity of these groups.
Recognizing the significance of protecting digital rights, KARA and Amkeni Wakenya UNDP have joined forces to address these challenges. Through their partnership, they are implementing a project focused on safeguarding the digital space, encompassing research, advocacy, capacity development, and civic education in Kilifi, Kwale, Kitui, and Turkana counties.
The overall objective of the project is to provide an enabling environment for increased opportunities for digital space protection in the realization of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Kenya. It aims to strengthen the technical capacity of human rights defenders (HRDs), CSOs, and government authorities to protect civic space in the digital era. Additionally, the partnership seeks to increase awareness and public dialogue on human rights and digital rights among communities. It also emphasizes the importance of coordination and evidence-informed advocacy to protect the digital space at local, county, and national levels.
By fostering collaboration among civil society networks, technology companies, policymakers, and international organizations, the partnership endeavors to develop effective frameworks, policies, and guidelines that uphold digital rights. Through advocacy efforts, they aim to promote legislation that safeguards digital freedoms and raise awareness about the importance of digital security. The project further encourages a culture of online respect and responsibility to counteract the threats faced by CSOs and groups in the digital realm.
Enhance community policing
Every time I watch the horror tales coming out of Shakahola in Kilifi County, I can’t help but recall a comment made by a participant during a forum on neighbourhood security and safety at a Nairobi hotel recently.
Kara holds stakeholder engagement forums in Tana River County on preparation of the Hola Local Physical & Land Use Development Plan.
Kara in partnership with UN Habitat and Tana River County government held stakeholder engagement forums in Tana River County on 22nd March 2023 and 19th April 2023 at Laza Leisure
Kara holds Training Workshops on Digital Rights & Civic Space protection in Kwale and Kitui Counties
Kara conducted training of trainers workshops for human rights defenders and civil society organizations in Kitui and Kilifi Counties on 24th to 28th April 2023.
Government to establish community policing framework to enhance community participation in security management
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration is developing community policing framework that will provide guidelines and standards for addressing
Kara signs MoU with Nairobi County Government on promoting community development initiatives in the City
The Nairobi City County Government’s Talent, Skills Development and Care Sector signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Kara
Nakuru City set to host Kenya's Urban Forum Conference
Plans to host Kenya’s Urban Forum Conference in Nakuru City are in top gear.
Sakaja declares crackdown on plastic paper bags
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has said operations to weed out plastic paper bags will start in a week's time.
Policy shift towards turning waste into wealth will pay off
#The Standard: Recent calls by the Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research and Analysis (Kippra) on the government to encourage circular economy approach to plastic waste management couldn’t have come at a better time.
Housing: A Key Social Determinant of Health
One of the most basic social determinants of health is the quality of housing. Social conditions that impact one’s health include housing, level of education, employment and earning potential and their physical environment.
Sakaja adamant over relocation of matatus from CBD
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has told off critics of his plans to relocate long-distance public service vehicles from the Central Business District (CBD).
KARA Season’s Greetings
As we approach the end of the year and the festive season, we at KARA would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your loved ones a very happy and safe Christmas and New Year. The Christmas season is a time for joy, celebration, and coming together with family and friends. It is also a time to reflect on the past year and give thanks for the blessings we have received.
KARA partners with National Environment Complaints Committee to accelerate resolution of environmental complaints in the neighborhoods
Kara has partnered with the National Environment Complaints Committee (NECC), to accelerate resolution of environmental complaints and environmental degradation cases in the neighborhoods.
KARA CEO Graces Delta Plains Estate Annual General Meeting
Kara was pleased to be part of the Annual General Meeting for Delta Plains Estate held on 10th December 2022.
KARA participates in Optimum Group’s End of Year Appreciation Dinner
KARA CEO Henry Ochieng was honored to be the Chief Guest at the Optimum Group Partnerships Company’s end of year appreciation dinner to celebrate the companies 25 years of excellence in promoting Security and Safety in various countries.
Governor Sakaja unveils new members of the reconstituted Nairobi City County Urban Planning Technical Committee
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has called upon developers in the building sector to ensure they work closely with professionals within the built environment in obtaining approvals and supervision during construction.
Mombasa residents lament rise of illegal buildings
Increasing illegal buildings along Tudor creek in Mombasa county and other sub counties have irked the locals saying majority of them are being constructed without approvals of relevant authorities.
Governor Sakaja Dismisses Reports on Doubling of Nairobi Land Rates
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja refuted claims that his administration doubled rates for Nairobi landowners.
National Land Commission (NLC) urges County residents to promote rightful use of public land
National Land Commission (NLC) has called for vigilance among Kenyans in ensuring effective public land management.
