In the latest episode of the podcast Jijuze, Brian discusses the rising control algorithms are gaining in Kenya, and their impact on governance and citizens' lives. The podcast highlights how the increased dependence on algorithmic tools in various government departments, like the Kenyan Revenue Authority, and biometric verification at service centres, is becoming a major concern. Brian expresses concerns about the lack of safeguards and adequate legislation against potential biases and errors in the systems, mentioning criticisms against Kenya's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and the Data Protection Act of 2019 that don’t provide robust enforcement. In the absence of legislation to regulate AI, Brian warns of the dangers of "algorithmic colonialism," where foreign tech corporations like Huawei, Microsoft, and Oracle, control vital national data, thereby impacting decision-making at the government level. The urgent need for transparency, public rights, and strong legislation are stressed, with Brian highlighting how shaping Kenya’s digital future depends on accountability from algorithms.
