05/06/2026
In 2018, Dr. Hellen Mukiri-Smith of Loughborough University, UK, undertook research in Kenya examining the growing impact of Fintech and digital systems on rights, access to services, and social justice. With funding from the Socio-Legal Studies Association (SLSA) and in partnership with Kituo Cha Sheria, Dr. Hellen has in the past month been conducting a series of validation and feedback sessions across Kisumu, Kibera, Kamukunji, Korogocho, Kiambu, and with Kituo Cha Sheria staff to gather feedback, identify gaps, and ground the findings in lived realities.
To conclude the engagement, we convened a dynamic multi-stakeholder forum in Nairobi bringing together policymakers, regulators, researchers, industry actors, civil society, and individuals directly affected by emerging digital systems to discuss some of the most pressing digital rights issues of our time.
The discussions explored the intersection of technology, human rights, and access to services, focusing on the following areas:
📱 Digital lending and fintech applications, including concerns around consumer protection, privacy, and accountability in loan borrowing platforms;
💊 Methadone-Assisted Therapy (MAT) programmes and the role of digital systems in supporting or hindering access to healthcare for people recovering from opioid dependence; and
🆔 Digital identity systems, including the legacy and implications of Huduma Namba, and the growing importance of digital identities in an increasingly digitized world.
A key discussion focused on the growing use of Artificial Intelligence in Fintech, particularly in assessing creditworthiness, raising important concerns about how automated decision-making can ensure transparency, fairness, accountability, and non-discrimination while safeguarding fundamental rights. At the same time, participants reflected on the significant opportunities AI and digital innovation present, alongside the persistent gaps that must be addressed to ensure technology remains inclusive, human-centred, and grounded in respect for rights and equity.
We are deeply grateful to all the stakeholders who participated in these forums, the Social Legal Studies Association (SLSA), UK, for funding this engagement, and Dr. Hellen Mukiri of Loughborough University for her partnership and commitment to advancing research and dialogue on digital rights and social justice.
The future is digital. The challenge before us is ensuring that it is also equitable, accountable, and accessible to all.
