Issues that should be addressed to improve digital public infrastructure

The 21st century brought even greater advancements with broadband, mobile internet, social media, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things. These innovations have made the Internet a cornerstone of daily life. It is no longer just a tool but an essential part of our daily routines. Today, billions of people worldwide rely on the Internet for communication, education, commerce, and entertainment, making it a vital digital public infrastructure (DPI).

Digital public infrastructure (DPI) refers to foundational digital systems and services designed to be accessible, secure, and beneficial for the public at large. These infrastructures provide essential services such as identification, payments, and data exchange. The Internet itself is perhaps the most significant DPI available globally.

One of Kenya's most revolutionary DPIs is M-Pesa. M-Pesa allows users to send money, pay for goods, and access financial services without needing traditional banking infrastructure. It has played a critical role in enhancing financial inclusion, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Kenya has made various attempts to roll out secure identity solutions in the realm of digital identity systems. The most notable effort was Huduma Namba, a biometric-based identification system that sought to provide every Kenyan with a digital ID. However, the rollout faced numerous challenges, including lack of public awareness, data protection concerns, and legal challenges raised by marginalised communities. Additionally, the absence of a robust legal framework for data protection at the time and insufficient impact assessments led to the project's failure, despite the collection of biometric data from millions of Kenyans.

The Maisha Namba project, introduced by the Kenya Kwanza regime, represents a renewed attempt to create a digital identity system. The Maisha Namba is a unique identifier provided at birth and consists of four components: The Unique Personal Identification Number, the Maisha Card (a third-generation ID card), the Maisha Digital ID, and the Maisha Integrated Database. However, it has encountered similar concerns regarding data protection, public participation, and transparency.

Beyond identity systems, the government has successfully implemented other DPIs, such as the e-Citizen platform. This portal allows citizens, refugees, and residents to access government services like passport applications, land records, and business registration. The platform simplifies interactions with government institutions and enhances the efficiency of service delivery and making payments, significantly reducing paperwork and bureaucracy.

Privately owned systems such as telecommunications networks, cloud computing platforms, and social media sites like Facebook, also play a significant role in Kenya's digital landscape. In some countries, especially in the Global South, social media platforms function as the primary gateways for access to information, expression, and communication. However, for private systems to qualify as DPIs, scholars argue that they must operate in the public interest, be regulated by the government, and ensure broad accessibility, interoperability, and accountability.

A recent digital initiative that has garnered attention in Kenya is WorldCoin. Described by its founders as a blockchain-based system that provides a global digital identity and cryptocurrency, WorldCoin was met with controversy. In August 2023, the rollout was halted by the courts due to concerns over the collection of biometric iris data in exchange for monetary compensation. Critics raised alarms over data security, ethical concerns about offering cash for biometric data, and a foreign entity's storage of sensitive data. Litigation is ongoing as courts determine the legality and implications of this project.

DPIs are critical for Kenya's economic and social development. However, challenges remain regarding data protection, public trust, and transparency. As Kenya continues to expand its digital infrastructure, ensuring these systems serve the public interest and are implemented with proper safeguards will be key to their success.