Naivasha: Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, announced a rise in cyber-attacks targeting government institutions, estimating annual losses in billions of shillings. Speaking at the sixth annual Information Security Management Systems (ISMS) Conference, Omollo emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing AI and cybercrime threats.
According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Omollo highlighted the need for legislative amendments to tackle new forms of fraud, identity manipulation, and misinformation, especially with upcoming general elections. He stressed the risks posed by AI in manipulating public opinion online and reiterated the government’s dedication to ensuring a secure cyberspace.
Omollo mentioned the success of the eCitizen platform, which supports over 24,000 government services and handles about 500,000 transactions daily. He also noted the ongoing digital initiatives in the health sector, supported by the Digital Health Authority and Social Health Authority.
Measures already in place include enforcing existing laws, operationalizing the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee (NC4), and rolling out the Critical Information Infrastructure Protection and Cybersecurity Management Regulations, 2024. Omollo hailed Parliament’s approval of the National Cybersecurity Agency, which will enhance coordination and readiness against cyber threats.
The Principal Secretary called for local investment in cybersecurity innovation, urging Kenya to export cybersecurity solutions. Dr. James Kimuyu, Director of NC4, acknowledged progress in addressing cyber threats and revealed that a draft national cybersecurity policy and strategy review await adoption.
Eng. Zachariah Lukorito from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) remarked on the rapid digital transformation era, emphasizing that information security management systems are essential for managing evolving cyber threats. The three-day conference, organized by NC4 and KEBS, gathered stakeholders to discuss information security standards.
