Surveillance or Security? Uganda’s Digital License Plates and the Trade-Off Between Privacy and Governance
In a bold yet controversial move to modernize its transportation system, Uganda introduced digital license plates as part of a sweeping technological transformation. While the government frames this initiative as a step toward improved road safety and crime prevention, the rollout has sparked significant and fierce public debate. Beneath the veneer of progress and modernization, […]
Israeli Gas, Kenyan Tears: An Investigation into the Israel-Supplied Riot Control Agents Used in the Kenya Demonstrations
This research project by THRAETS, in collaboration with the Omega Research Foundation, examines the origins, suppliers, and deployment of less-lethal weapons used by Kenyan authorities, with a focus on Israeli-manufactured tear gas grenades and other riot control munitions. Using open-source research, this report traces the supply chain of these weapons, highlights their human rights impact, […]
Synthetic Media in Rwanda’s 2024 Elections
We’ve all seen them—fake images that depict political leaders in a less-than-flattering light, deepfakes of political endorsements that never happened, or manipulated videos spreading inflammatory messages against important figures. The ease with which this content is created and spread emphasizes the significant impact AI-generated media can have on society, especially in politically charged environments. A […]
It Is becoming Impossible to do Internet Research
Thirty years ago, for a person on the African continent to connect with someone in, for example, Australia, they would have to send a letter that would take many weeks to be delivered. However, these days, connection is as simple as clicking a button. The internet has brought connectivity and made so much possible. It […]