I got the chance to be part of the team that was to represent Kuza Biashara at this forum, which for one took me a bit by surprise since the UN is a very big name and expectation that comes with this is even greater. To be absolutely certain that things will go according to plan, Florence and I decided to go the previous day before the start of the forum.
At the gate as expected was a heavy security detail and presence who frisked, took photos, and put us in the system. As we were being subjected to this scrutiny, a large government vehicle pulled up, and Eunice Kariuki, the deputy CEO of the Kenya ICT board, walked out and made her way to the security gate we were. She glanced at us, and with an expression of recognition asked us where she knew us from. On hearing the name Kuza Biashara, she laughed and said, “Ofcourse, that had to be it.” She did however confess to us that you couldn’t be too sure until you asked, because for all she knows, we might be have been some delegates from a foreign country.
Thursday, day one of the conference and we were all there, a team of three from Kuza Biashara. One of us took the stand while the rest went to the main conference hall. I was among the ones who were to go to the conference hall. Walking into that hall, the sheer size of the structure, and number of people made me glare with admiration and expectation.
I have seen this hall on TV, when there is a high powered diplomatic conference happening in the country, so it was a pretty awesome feeling having to sit where the high and mighty have sat before.
Although I could understand English very well, I still wore the headset and selected English on the display unit there, just to hear how it felt like to listen to a translator. At least that’s one thing I have crossed off in my bucket list of things to do.
That evening after close of day one, we were treated to a Safari park dining, where we were treated to an array of local delicacies. That was the first time I ever ate Ostrich and Crocodile, and it did live to the expectations.
It was a great experience, and great milestone for rights for the online community. The Government of Kenya and other World Governments pledged to support freedom and push for the rights for their online citizens. A lot was put on the table for promises, and we look forward to see that they are delivered.
