While data generated by National Statistical Organisations (NSOs) and corporations has long been the focus of attention, there’s a growing recognition of the significance of Citizen Generated Data (CGD). CGD is data produced at the grassroots level by individuals, often through their daily activities and interactions. Through CGD citizens are not just data subjects but…
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Traditionally, data collection initiatives have often been top-down, with external organizations setting the agenda and citizens responding reactively. In the traditional model, institutions play a central role in defining what data is collected and how it is collected. Citizens are seen as respondents, participating in data collection exercises initiated by others. While this approach is…
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In 2015, we did some work to try and see what citizens care about enough to act and be engaged with the government. We had a simple goal – to stimulate active citizenship and foster responsive government using data to aid communities to provide input into government activities. This project showed us that citizens cared…
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In the grand scheme of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the spotlight often falls on national and global leaders making lofty promises. However, the real action, the actual implementation, happens at the grassroots level. It’s in the hands of mayors, governors, chiefs, and the local communities themselves. Unfortunately, the tracking and transparency needed to…
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Every day, we willingly or unwillingly disclose our personal information to individuals or organisations, often without awareness of how this data may be utilised. At the Open Institute, we have been educating Kenyans on how to handle their personal data more carefully, and what their data rights are, through a social media campaign dubbed #FichaUchi.…
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The World Coin phenomenon has rightly brought to the fore the conversation on data privacy and how our sensitive personal information can be collected and misused. World Coin, a Ficompany whose parent Tools for Humanity has obtained a registration certificate from the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner to collect Kenyans data, has been trending…
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Discover how the CSO Data Fellowship empowers grassroots Civil Society Organizations to use data for positive change. Learn how this 6-week program is bridging the gap and helping CSOs strengthen their advocacy using data and evidence to make better decisions about important issues.
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Goal 17 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) explicitly recognizes the importance of data in strengthening the means of implementation of the global partnership for sustainable development. It highlights the need to improve the availability of high-quality, timely, and reliable data. The availability of real-time data helps governments make more informed decisions that are based…
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We are thrilled to announce the opening of Maono in Malindi, Kilifi County, an innovative space designed specifically for changemakers. In Maono, community mobilisers and organisers are offered the support and resources they need to make a significant impact. Economic activity and cultural diversity in Malindi combine to make it an ideal location for Maono.…
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We are proud to work with KNBS as they lead the Technical Working Group on Citizen-Generated Data. The Open Institute is proud to have played a role in Kenya’s progress in institutionalizing Citizen-Generated Data as part of the National Statistical System (NSS). Since 2015, the Open Institute has worked with communities in Nakuru North sub-county,…
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