Kisumu MCAs demand training for iPads use

KISUMU: Members of the Kisumu County Assembly are still using paper despite spending Sh5 million to procure iPads last year. In what they termed reducing expenditure on printing and making the assembly 'paperless', they acquired iPads for the 50 MCAs.

A motion moved by Finance Committee Chairman James Were sought to compel members to use their iPads after it emerged that many did not know how to use the gadgets while some were not even carrying them for sessions.

Mr Were also proposed in his motion that was seconded by nominated Ward Rep Bob Ndolo that members should be inducted and trained in the use of iPads and generally become IT compliant.

"The assembly cannot run two budgets at the same time because a lot of money was used to procure these gadgets and we cannot afford to continue wasting money on paper," said Were.

However, his proposal was met with mixed reactions, with many claiming training would be a waste of resources. Migosi Ward Rep Paul Achayo said the assembly was giving Orange company almost Sh40,000 every month for internet connectivity, yet members were not utilising the devices.

But his colleague, Farida Salim, said members were not on the same level and therefore needed to be trained to use the iPads.

North Seme MCA James Diang'a admitted that one year down the line, he did not know how to use his iPad.

"I do not know how to use my iPad and therefore there is need for training so we can be at the same level as others," said Mr Diang'a.

Nominated Ward Representative Caroline Agwanda said the devices should be made disability-friendly as acting Speaker Gabriel Ochieng ruled that every member should be IT compliant in two weeks as proposed.