In a bold move to bolster online safety, the Kenyan government has launched several key initiatives aimed at protecting citizens from increasing cyber threats. The Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo, highlighted these efforts during the 2025 Safer Internet Day celebrations, organized by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).
Among the standout initiatives is the newly introduced National Cybersecurity Strategy, which Kabogo described as a comprehensive roadmap focused on governance, policy development, and capacity building. “This strategy is designed to counter cyber risks and enhance public trust in our digital systems,” he stated.
One of the cornerstones of this strategy is the National Plan of Action to Tackle Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (2022–2026). This plan outlines detailed strategies to combat the exploitation of children online, assigns responsibilities to various government entities, and establishes key progress indicators to monitor the initiative’s effectiveness.
To ensure the legal framework keeps pace with the rapid evolution of digital technology, Kabogo cited the enactment and amendment of critical legislation, including the Children Act (2022) and the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act. “These laws empower law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against online predators, fraudsters, and cyberbullies,” he emphasized.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani, the CS praised the Child Online Protection (COP) Programme spearheaded by the CA. The program aims to equip stakeholders with information and skills for safe internet use, providing a framework to safeguard children while empowering them to navigate the digital space responsibly.
Further underscoring the government’s commitment to digital advancement, Kabogo pointed to the Kenya National Digital Master Plan (2022–2032). Launched in 2021, the plan serves as a blueprint for the country’s digital transformation, focusing on digital government, economy, society, and infrastructure to accelerate economic growth, enhance service delivery, and improve Kenyans’ quality of life.
Acknowledging the collaborative efforts of government partners, Kabogo stressed the importance of online safety in achieving the Digital Superhighway and Creative Economy — a key pillar of the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). This initiative leverages technology and creativity to drive economic growth, job creation, and innovation.
“As we embrace the boundless opportunities presented by the digital age, let us also remain vigilant in addressing its challenges. The Kenyan government is committed to working hand in hand with all stakeholders to build a safe, secure, and inclusive digital future for every citizen,” Kabogo stated.
Echoing these sentiments, CA Director General David Mugonyi celebrated Kenya’s progress in cybersecurity. “I am pleased to report that Kenya ranks among tier-one countries in the Global Cyber Security Index by the International Telecommunications Union, reflecting our commitment to online safety,” he said.
Mugonyi called for a united effort among stakeholders and service providers to educate Kenyans on identifying online fraud and understanding reporting mechanisms. “We need robust and easily accessible reporting systems on every platform. Perpetrators of online harm must be held accountable in accordance with our laws,” he urged.
With these initiatives in place, Kenya is taking a significant step toward creating a safer and more equitable digital environment for its citizens.
