In September of this year, the debut of Mozilla Festival’s House in Kenya will address urgent issues at the crossroads of emerging technology and the African continent. These include topics like digital exploitation and the management of artificial intelligence (AI).
MozFest House: Kenya is a localized version of the Mozilla Festival, an annual event that brings together technologists, researchers, policymakers, activists, and others to delve into subjects related to a healthy internet and dependable AI.
The event will embody Mozilla’s Africa Innovation Mradi initiative, providing spaces for diverse communities to come together and exchange knowledge, engage in discussions, and establish partnerships that focus on the advancement and regulation of digital technologies in Eastern and Southern Africa.
Scheduled for the 21st to 22nd of September 2023, the event will be held at Nairobi’s Shamba House Cafe.
“MozFest House Kenya stands as an unwavering regional gathering to voice truths to those in power regarding digital security, digital freedoms, technological responsibility, and ultimately, reliable AI in Africa. The festival serves as the primary assembly for advocates, creatives, technologists, and educators within global movements that strive for a more compassionate and healthier digital realm,” expressed Chenai Chair, Senior Program Officer for Africa Mradi at Mozilla.
“MozFest Kenya commemorates the local endeavors aimed at endorsing and constructing inclusive and ethical technologies. Kenya leads in local innovation and internet governance, and we aim to contribute to this dynamic,” stated Sarah Allen, Senior Director of MozFest.
This event unfolds during a pivotal moment, as the unchecked dominance of Big Tech clashes with the push for technological autonomy throughout the continent. Presently, dedicated tech professionals in Kenya are advocating for improved working conditions and fairer compensation. The discourse around digital exploitation has entered the public sphere, drawing parallels between the role of Big Tech in Africa and historical colonialism.
To uproot these exploitative practices, MozFest House: Kenya will engage in audacious dialogues and resolute measures to develop technologies that are more ethical, equitable, and humane. Notably, MozFest House Amsterdam earlier this year set a precedent by establishing the inaugural Amsterdam covenant to safeguard young individuals online.
The event will feature over 20 sessions centered around the theme “Mobilizing African Communities for Reliable AI.” These interactive sessions will concentrate on pivotal concerns in Eastern and Southern Africa, encompassing digital security, digital liberties, accountability of platforms, and the necessity for internet governance.
Anticipate keynote speeches and panel discussions featuring distinguished figures from across Eastern and Southern Africa. These include experts in tech policy, artists, activists, and technologists.
The program will encompass exhibitions, demonstrations, a hackathon, and other activities that bring to life the interplay between AI and the African continent.