WorldCoin in negotiations to resume Kenya operations under new regulations
Business
By
Standard Reporter
| Dec 14, 2023
Operations of cryptocurrency project Worldcoin may resume following discussions with the Kenyan government.
Highly placed sources told The Standard that the two parties were inching towards an agreement on the resumption of operations but under new strict guidelines, to be considered by Parliament.
Sources said WorldCoin is working directly with regulators to meet Kenya's requirements, particularly as the National Assembly considers new regulations.
The Government had in August 2023 suspended Worldcoin operations in the country pending a risk assessment.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, August 2, the Ministry of Interior said it was suspending all activities until concerned government agencies ascertain that the app is free of any risks.
READ MORE
Constitutional and fiscal lessons from 2024 Finance Bill protests
Education PS flags possible scrapping of C4 schools
Witness says Bliss Hospital locked out Rex Masai during June 2024 protests
Jilted lover attacks woman in Bungoma
Pilot, co-pilot killed in LaGuardia runway collision
A free lecture for those who want professors to retire early
How NARC resuscitated imperial presidency that Kenyans loathed
KNEC opens KCSE registration for 8-4-4 candidates
"The Government has suspended, forthwith, activities of Worldcoin and any other entity that may be similarly engaging Kenyans until relevant public agencies certify the absence of any risks to the general public whatsoever," said Interior Cabinet Secretary Kindiki Kithure.
Mr Alex Blania, the Worldcoin project boss, while appearing before the National Assembly's ad-hoc committee inquiring into the Worldcoin project in Kenya in September 2023, said they were building the world's largest identity and financial network.
Mr Blania told the committee that his team - Tools for Humanity (TFH) - aims to create universal access to the global economy regardless of country or background.
He said that would accelerate the transition to an economic future that welcomes and benefits everyone on the planet.
He also told the committee that his company had not violated any provision of the Kenyan data privacy legislation by submitting its application as a foreign entity without local presence in Kenya.
He said the Worldcoin project complies with requirements of the Data Protection Act General Regulations, and the Guidance Notes on Consent issued by the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner which require consent to be specific, informed, clear, unequivocal and signified through an affirmative action.
How Treasury is edging out 'mama mboga' for banks
Kenya’s increased reliance on local borrowing is raising concerns that it is crowding out businesses and households from accessing credit, potentially slowing economic growth.Agoa renewal offers new chance to redefine Africa's place in global trade
As global markets retreat into protectionism and nationalist economic agendas, Africa must hold firm to its integration agenda.Iran war hits kitchens as shilling slumps, forex reserves dwindle
Shockwaves of the conflict are squeezing consumers already battered by years of economic hardship.China woos Kenyan producers with '800-million opportunity' as zero-tariff deal takes effect
China has unveiled a detailed plan to integrate Kenyan producers into its high-tech industrial chains.Co-op bank shares set for further gains on strong profit growth, lower rates
Tier one lender Co-operative Bank of Kenya (Co-op Bank) shares could rise nearly a quarter over the next 12 monthsMOST READ
- Agoa renewal offers new chance to redefine Africa's place in global trade
OPINION
By Paul Russo
- Iran war hits kitchens as shilling slumps, forex reserves dwindle
BUSINESS
By Brian Ngugi
- China woos Kenyan producers with '800-million opportunity' as zero-tariff deal takes effect
BUSINESS
By Brian Ngugi