Tech

Kenyan govt launches online application platform for presidential pardon

Published

1 year ago

September 25, 2023

The Kenyan Ministry of Information and Communication Technology (ICTC) has launched an online platform that will help offenders seeking presidential pardon to submit their applications.

The platform, which was launched in collaboration with the Power of Mercy Advisory Committee (POMAC), will be known as Power of Mercy Petitions Management Information System (ePOMPMIS), according to Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei, at Kamiti Maximum Security Prison.

The platform will be able to enhance transparency, accountability, participation, collaboration and feedback on the power of mercy petitions process, Koskei said.

“The end–to–end system, domiciled on the e-citizen platform, is accessible to all stakeholders and members of the public through here,” he explained.

According to the Kenyan Power of Mercy Act 21 of 2011, any person may, subject to the Constitution and the Act, petition the President, through the Committee, to exercise the power of mercy and grant any relief specified in Article 133(1) of the Constitution.

Speaking at the launch, Koskei lauded POMAC’s action of heeding the President’s call to digitize government services.

He noted that the platform would further increase efficiency in service delivery and transparency of the organization’s processes.

“I commend the Power of Mercy Committee and the ICT Authority for digitizing the entire petition process which aligns with the government’s ambition of taking advantage of the ICT infrastructure gains made in the last two decades,” he said.

“I am informed that the petition process is available on the e-citizen platform and would like us to ensure that all stakeholders access the services without any issues.”

The country’s Attorney General, Hon. Justin Muturi, who also lauded the system, said 19,125 reformed criminal offenders had been rejoined with their families since 2011, adding that the digitization of the process would foster stronger reforms in correctional services.

“Indeed, the government has once again demonstrated their competence and trustworthiness in delivering its services to the people. I must note with appreciation, the efficiency which this system brings.

“I would like to thank the government and all stakeholders involved for making this possible as we keep delivering our mandate as POMAC,” Muturi said.

Related Topics:Featured Kenya Ministry of ICTC Offenders

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Tech

Ghana partners with The Gambia to provide free roaming services

Published

1 day ago

November 21, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Ghana and The Gambia are in the process of launching free roaming services that will enhance a West African connectivity.

The plan which is a joint initiative of the Ghana Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation and The Gambian National Communications Authority (NCA) will see mobile users in both countries avoiding extra charges for calls, texts, and data, which in turn, is expected to boost trade, tourism, and economic integration across borders.

The collaboration, according to a joint statement by the two bodies, aligns with the Economic Community of West African States’ (ECOWAS) broader push for seamless regional communication.

“Ghana and The Gambia are forging new paths in West Africa’s digital landscape, implementing a free-roaming initiative,” the statement said.

“This move strengthens regional connectivity while highlighting the role of technological collaboration in fostering economic integration. The initiative enables mobile users travelling between the two nations to make calls, send messages, and use data services without additional roaming fees.”

It further noted that by reducing these costs, the program aligns with the ECOWAS Free Roaming Initiative, which seeks to eliminate barriers to communication across member states.

“It is a boost for trade and travel as the free roaming plan is expected to spur economic activities by streamlining cross-border communication.

“Businesses and individuals travelling between Ghana and The Gambia can now stay connected without worrying about exorbitant charges, facilitating smoother transactions and personal interactions. The initiative is also expected to attract more tourists by ensuring seamless digital access for visitors.

“This collaboration marks another milestone in Ghana’s commitment to expanding digital connectivity, following Ghana’s successful implementation of similar agreements with Côte d’Ivoire, Togo, and Benin, with talks of possible roaming partnerships with Liberia.

“By focusing on digital integration, Ghana and The Gambia demonstrate the power of technology to bridge gaps between countries. This step also serves as a model for other West African nations to join the free-roaming framework, contributing to the larger goal of a connected and economically integrated region,” it added.

Tech

Tanzania to host 6th Ocean Innovation Africa summit in February

Published

2 days ago

November 20, 2024

Isaac Dachen

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, has been selected to host the sixth edition of the Ocean Innovation Africa (OIA) summit from February 24-28, 2025, as a flagship event within Regenerative Ocean Week.

The Ocean Innovation Africa is set to be Africa’s most significant platform for Ocean Innovation conservation, and sustainable development in the blue economy. OIA2025 will be co-organised with leading partners, including IUCN, GIZ, OceanHub Africa, Catalyze and the Ocean-Climate Platform.

With the theme, “Science-to-Solution”, the Regenerative Ocean Week will present a line-up of sessions designed to bridge the gap between scientific research, business innovation, policy, and community engagement.

According to the organizers of the event, it will bring together African ocean innovators, investors, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders to explore practical solutions that can be applied across the continent.

“These include the OIA Pitch Competition, which is a platform for Africa-based startups and entrepreneurs to showcase breakthrough ideas in ocean-impact solutions, allowing them to connect with investors and industry leaders and emphasizing Africa’s role in driving sustainable ocean initiatives,” the organizers said in a statement.