By Steve El Sabai
In a landmark event held at the Fairmont Hotel in Nairobi on December 19, 2024, Kenya marked two significant milestones in its quest for digital security and innovation.
Dr. Raymond Omollo, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, presided over the graduation ceremony for cybersecurity trainees and the signing of a crucial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee (NC4) and Huawei Technologies.The event underscored Kenya’s commitment to fortifying its digital landscape and addressing emerging cybersecurity threats.
Dr. Omollo lauded the graduates for their dedication, describing them as the “critical mass of vanguards” who will protect the country’s digital sovereignty.Dr. Omollo emphasized the transformative potential of the digital revolution, a vision championed by His Excellency President William Ruto.
He noted that digitization is not merely about enhancing service delivery but also about unlocking opportunities for job creation, income generation, and fostering economic inclusion. However, with these opportunities come significant risks. Recent cyberattacks targeting Kenya’s critical infrastructure, such as government platforms, electricity grids, and airport systems, have highlighted the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures.The partnership between NC4 and Huawei Technologies represents a major step forward in addressing these challenges. Huawei, a global leader in technology, has been instrumental in building Kenya’s cybersecurity capacity through training, policy development, and the sharing of best practices.
The newly signed MoU aims to deepen collaboration in areas such as emerging technologies and rapid response mechanisms.Kenya is also taking legislative strides by aligning with international conventions, including the Budapest and Malabo Conventions, to enhance its capacity for cybercrime investigations and prosecutions.The event highlighted the government’s proactive approach to cybersecurity. Dr. Omollo detailed Kenya’s ongoing initiatives, including the enactment of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act and its accompanying regulations. Plans are also underway to establish the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA), the National Cybersecurity Operations Centre (NSOC), and a Cybersecurity Center of Excellence.
Additionally, Kenya will host key events such as Cyber Week Africa and the African Forum on Cybercrime to foster collaboration and innovation.Dr. Omollo urged stakeholders across the public and private sectors to prioritize cybersecurity, allocate resources, and integrate it into boardroom discussions. He expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility requiring collective effort.As Kenya accelerates its digital transformation, the collaboration between NC4 and Huawei sets a strong foundation for a secure and innovative digital ecosystem. The government’s strategic investments and international partnerships signal a bold commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s digital future as Cybersecurity is a shared responsibility.