Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has said that cyber threats pose a great danger to Kenya’s National Security.
Speaking on Tuesday, Omollo who opened the Cyber Week Africa 2024 Conference and Expo at the University of Nairobi said these threats also pose risks to all sectors, as well as the critical information infrastructure.
The PS insisted that this is particularly worrying to the government and the private sector, who rely heavily on Information, Communication and Technology for service delivery.
“Cybersecurity threats come from many sources including state-sponsored actors, hackers, intruders, and individuals who misuse their skills for malicious purposes,” Omollo said.
“The danger they pose is real, and cyberattacks on our Critical Information Infrastructures could jeopardize our national security, public safety, and economic stability.”
He went on to state that the country's cybersecurity strategic vision is clear and it seeks to create a cyberspace that is safe and secure for all.
Omollo said to achieve this, stakeholders and the state must ensure they can protect Critical Information Infrastructures and maintain resilience even in the event of cyberattacks.
“As we become more reliant on technology, the threats we face grow more sophisticated. It is therefore essential that we build strong cybersecurity capabilities and remain prepared to face these challenges head-on. Our success and prosperity in the digital economy depend on it.”
The Interior PS who also chairs the National Computer and Cybercrime Coordination Committee (NC4) noted that the Cyber Week conference is a critical initiative that aims to increase user awareness, build capacity and deepen understanding of risks in cyberspace.
Omollo said it is through such Conferences that cybersecurity is advanced by bringing the right people to share information, points of view, and best practices.
He added that the future depends on strengthening the cyber education system and expanding the national cybersecurity workforce.
“No number of technical solutions will be effective unless we have the skilled professionals needed to implement them,” Omollo added.
“As NC4, we are committed to continuing our efforts to build cyber capacity and capability across both government and private sectors. Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, and we will provide timely, impactful support to our partners and those in need during times of crisis."
He noted that the Kenyan government has taken strides to strengthen the cybersecurity space by enacting the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime (Critical Information Infrastructure and Cybercrime Management) Regulations, 2024.
The PS said the state is also investing in long-term capacity-building initiatives, such as establishing cybersecurity centres of excellence.
“These centres will enhance our workforce, unify our efforts to protect our cyberspace, and foster collaboration between government, the private sector, and international partners.”