By Eddah Waithaka
Present at the event were Vice Chancellor, University of Nairobi Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson, Director General Kenya School of Government, Nura Mohamed Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Enterprise) University of Nairobi, Prof. Martha Kiarie Director NC4, Col (Dr) James Kimuyu; Embassy of Israel in Kenya Representative, Barak Granot, Chairman Cyberpro Global, Noah Emunah and CEO Cyberpro Global John Mutunga among others.
During the opening of the second CyberWeek Africa 2024 Conference and Expo at the University of Nairobi, Omollo warned that the growing reliance on technology was exposing the nation to sophisticated cyber threats.
The Chairman of the National Computer and Cybercrime Coordination Committee (NC4) also emphasized the need for a unified national approach to combating cybercrime.
“As we become more reliant on technology, the threats we face grow more sophisticated. It is therefore essential that we build strong cyber security capabilities and remain prepared to face these challenges head-on. Our success and prosperity in the digital economy depend on it,” PS Omollo said.
The PS also emphasized the need for a concerted effort by government, the private sector, and international allies to strengthen Kenya’s defenses against the rapidly changing threats to the country’s critical information infrastructure..
The PS emphasized the significant dangers posed by cyber threats, noting that harmful activities are directed not only at government systems, but also at the private sector. These attacks have serious implications for public safety, national security, and economic stability.
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He cautioned that dangers emanate from various quarters, encompassing ‘state-backed operatives,’ hackers, and individuals who exploit their expertise for personal profit.
“The danger they pose is real and cyber attacks on our Critical Information Infrastructures could jeopardize our national security, public safety, and economic stability. This is particularly concerning as both government and the private sector rely heavily on ICTs for service delivery,” he continued.
The PS for Interior remarked on Kenya’s substantial strides in securing its digital realm, underlining the latest introduction of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime (Critical Information Infrastructure and Cybercrime Management) Regulations for the year 2024.
He highlighted that the Regulation, passed by parliament this March, alongside complementary laws, establishes the groundwork for safeguarding the nation’s Critical Information Infrastructures.
The three-day CyberWeek Africa 2024 collaborative conference, organized in partnership with the University of Nairobi, brings together professionals from various sectors with government officials and global allies. Its focus is on sharing the latest methods and approaches to combat current and evolving cyber vulnerabilities.
The program will comprise a succession of dialogues dedicated to bolstering cybersecurity protocols, advancing industrial standards, and fostering workforce growth.
