Government Digital Services and Digital ID in Kenya

In this episode of The Friendly Troll Podcast, host Calvin Mulindwa is joined by Mustafa Mahmoud to explore the governance of Digital ID systems and government digital services in Kenya and Zambia. Drawing from CIPIT’s latest publication "Report on the Study of Government Digital Services and Digital ID in Kenya and Zambia" they discuss the legal and institutional frameworks that underpin these systems, identify key implementation gaps, and reflect on what’s needed to promote rights-respecting governance with a focus on Kenya.

With over 12 years of experience in legal identity and inclusion, Mustafa shares valuable insights on the findings from surveys conducted with government agencies, civil society organisations, and private sector players. The conversation highlights systemic challenges, litigation trends, risks posed by biometric systems, and the need for inclusive, collaborative approaches to digital governance.

Key Highlights:

• Introduction to Digital ID and its connection to digital public infrastructure (DPI) and digital public goods (DPG).
• Importance of data protection, especially in relation to sensitive biometric data.
• Overview of the survey methodology used in the study and the diversity of institutions surveyed.
• Key challenges inhibiting just and inclusive digital ID systems in Kenya.
• Contrast between Kenya and Zambia’s approaches, particularly Kenya’s litigation landscape.
• Risks and barriers related to digital access, biometric systems, and systemic inequalities.
• Current efforts by CSOs and recommendations for improving government-civil society collaboration.
• Discussion on the role of inclusive policy and multi-stakeholder design in building trust and equitable access to digital services.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes!

Music:
Intro/Outro  – https://pixabay.com/music/id-102694/