Comments on: First solar web kiosk lands in Ukunda

By: VOA4SD

VOA4SD — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 06:05:03 +0000

There are serious infrastructure problems in Kenya that are related to much more than a lack of resources. The rationale for not adopting solar power is strongly tied to a lack of political will. But just watch… I believe that little by little the tides will change.

By: VOA4SD

VOA4SD — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 15:27:08 +0000

The idea is to bring employment and opportunities to the area so people stop starving. The RIK is based on a self employment social enterprise model that seeks to make money for the most needy in the community.

By: lubangad

lubangad — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:02:32 +0000

surf while u starve!

By: VOA4SD

VOA4SD — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:14:13 +0000

It costs 375,000 Ksh for the kiosk plus installation. The monthly internet cost is 7,500 Ksh. We are working out the partnership with the Youth Enterprise Development Fund to roll out financing for the purchase.

By: bananafix

bananafix — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:00:34 +0000

it costs how much?

By: VOA4SD

VOA4SD — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:36:53 +0000

The kiosk components were created to be able to track their wearabouts. If a component is stolen, its location can be traced.

By: VOA4SD

VOA4SD — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:35:52 +0000

What was not mentioned by the media is that all components were designed for security and most are welded into place. In addition as it is a community based project there are several members of the community providing security at night.

By: VOA4SD

VOA4SD — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:33:03 +0000

The awnings are on their way. The CBO who is now the owner is seeking a sponsor to create new shade coverings.

By: VOA4SD

VOA4SD — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:32:24 +0000

Actually I believe this will be one of the first Internet projects that does NOT become a white elephant. The model is based on SUSTAINABILITY and time will tell.

By: VOA4SD

VOA4SD — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:31:14 +0000

The Rural Internet Kiosk is the “brainchild” of Intersat Africa, an African internet service provider. Jawahar Patani is the creator of the RIK. Intersat Africa has partnered with Voices of Africa for Sustainable Development to provide the programming and manage the project implementations. This implementation is owned by the local CBO, Voices of Diani, a group comprised of local youth. Negotiations are underway with the Youth Enterprise Development Fund for a wider scale implementation.