[kictanet] Digital TV signal Distribution row- at Kenya IGF

[aki]

Allow me to add some comments on this thread. :-)

Why is the ownership of the core signal distribution facilities of national
importance ? I agree with Hon Eng Rege's assesment of potential sabotage and
this alone is serious enough. Today we can openly discuss issues of such
importance, who knows what will be the situation in another 20 years. All
global governments have been known to back track or fast track. In 20 years
time, we will have changed govt, policies to match back-tracking or
fast-tracking at least 5 different times but two local companies will still
be in existence i.e NMG/Royal Media and operating the national signal
distribution without any effects whatsoever. We are also players in the
global world and there is also the problem of global policies that affects
us. If tomorrow China came under any sanctions internationally for whatever
reason and that all developing nations have to follow the lead on showing
how they support these sanctions, will the govt then shutdown the licensed
facilities? Case of this is now Libya, which unfortunately developing
countries are also being sucked into and told to choose sides between
blocking assets and the rest . How would it work then? Anyone know what is
happening to Laico Regency and Oil-Libya in Kenya, please share some
details.

The signal distribution network and facilities are as important as the
signals of DOD. Will we also pass these signals and controls to external
parties? I hope not. Nothing against China, as an investor it will be
unfortunately get caught up with issues that arise from developing countries
fast tracking shortcuts versus almost zero internal initiatives on core
ownership development. In this case, I'd have to support the local media
groups that can finance, operate and rollout ownership of facilities versus
the argument that market competion will drive a diverse solutions. It seems
that there aren't that many media stations which would be able to use more
facilties even if they were available.

My thoughts and corrections welcome.

Thank you.
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