by Mersia Aloo
Nairobi, Kenya – The University of Nairobi is abuzz with activity this week as it hosts the Cyber Week Africa 2024 Conference, aimed at addressing critical cybersecurity issues in an increasingly digital world. The event, which runs through the week, brings together key stakeholders from government, academia, and industry to explore the synergies necessary for enhancing cyber resilience across the continent.
Dr. Raymond Omolo, the Permanent Secretary for Internal Security, opened the ceremony with an emphasis on the importance of collaboration among different sectors. “There is a crucial nexus between government, the academia, and the industry, each bringing unique strengths to the table,” he stated. “Government acts as a facilitator, the industry contributes resources and expertise, while academia provides research and talent.”
The theme of this year’s conference revolves around both the advantages of technological innovation and the threats posed by cybersecurity breaches. Dr. Omolo highlighted the critical challenge experienced recently with Kenya’s E-Citizen platform, where over 20,000 services became inaccessible due to cyber maltreatment for nearly 48 hours, impacting citizens nationwide. He cautioned that while technology offers remarkable benefits, it also presents significant risks that could compromise national security and service delivery.
As part of its ongoing commitment to cybersecurity, the Kenyan government is investing in capacity building to equip stakeholders with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape effectively. Dr. Omolo added, “This conference serves as a vital opportunity to forge partnerships, enhance public awareness, and discuss the challenges and risks associated with technology.”
The conference also aims to address critical topics such as misinformation and disinformation, urging collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that liberties are respected and enjoyed responsibly. “As technology evolves rapidly, it is crucial we continually assess our educational curricula to align with emerging real-world needs and challenges,” he said.
In the legal landscape, Dr. Omolo referenced the Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act of 2018, which has languished for years due to a lack of operational regulations. He announced that recent approvals by Parliament for these regulations aim to create a framework for addressing crimes committed through technology. As the government considers amendments to this legislation, emphasis will be placed on critical infrastructure protection and fostering international cooperation given the borderless nature of cyber threats.
However, challenges remain, particularly regarding cross-border prosecutions and the collection of admissible evidence in legal proceedings. The conference features legal experts to address these issues and begin shaping strategies for effective enforcement within the evolving digital ecosystem.
Dr. Omolo concluded with a call for self-regulation within the industry, urging players to take proactive measures in maintaining ethical practices. He stated, “While the government plays a pivotal role, it is imperative that industry professionals and the public also uphold self-regulation to foster a safer cyber environment for all.”
As the Cyber Week Africa 2024 unfolds, stakeholders are poised to engage in meaningful discussions and develop actionable strategies to bolster Kenya’s cybersecurity framework, paving the way for a more secure digital future.