[kictanet] Is Kenya Really Going Digital and Open?

[Edith Adera]

Bwana Ndemo,

I trust this finds you well in the new year.

Today, I patriotically sent someone to the Ministry of Tourism to pick a promotional DVD, Video or other digital products on Kenya for use in an event that will include foreigners so as to portray Kenya in good light  thinking I'm being the good Kenyan that we should all be.

The librarian asked to speak to me and told me that I must first "write a letter" to the Ministry formally requesting the materials!, then it has to be discussed with the boss and a formal approval given before I can get a copy, which she has. I could not believe my ears! Are we back to the snail mail era where you receive no reply?

What will become of your efforts on local content? how about access to information (which in this case is surely far from secret!). They proudly pay CNN millions of dollars to advertise Kenya, while Kenyans making an effort to promote their country, for free, have no access to the materials!!

Could you advice me how best I can access the materials I need!

Edith