Author(s):
Soren Gigler* - World Bank Institute
Hanif A Rahemtulla - World Bank Institute
Aleem Walji - Wolrd Bank Institute
Charles Brigham - World Bank Institute
Kaushal Jhalla - World Bank Institute
Nagat Dawaji - World Bank Institute
Abstract:
In July 2011, Kenya become one of the first African countries to launch an open data portal, releasing over 290 datasets including national budget data, nation and county expenditure data, and information on health care and school facilitates. This initiative will, it is envisaged, support greater transparency and accountability within Government. This paper charts the evolution of the Kenya Open Data Initiative from inception right through to realization and envisions its future. This study adopts a mixed-mode research design drawing on surveys and observational data including an extensive series of interviews conducted with some of the key actors' involved in this initiative. This paper will outline the underlying drivers, principal objectives and chart the evolution of the Kenya Open Data Initiative. It also provides a comparison between Kenya Open Data and the US/UK initiatives which have become the 'default model' for the release of public sector information and assess its wider applicability to developing countries. This paper also provides a deep insight into the access and usage patterns of the platform since the official launch and the perceived impact of this initiative in Kenya. Finally, it outlines the vision moving forward describing the principal barriers and supportive factors required for the effective use of public sector information in Kenya.
