Global internet observatory Netblocks has confirmed that messaging app Telegram has been restricted in Kenya on the first day of the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams.
The restriction, which began early Monday morning, coincides with the start of the crucial national examinations. According to Netblocks, this move fits into a recurring trend where access to communication platforms is limited to curb exam leaks and malpractice.
For millions of Kenyan students, this disruption underscores growing state vigilance against digital exam fraud.
Telegram Restricted in Kenya Report Confirms Government Tightening Exam Controls
Netblocks reported on Monday that metrics showed access to Telegram was restricted across multiple internet service providers in Kenya. The observatory said the timing was no coincidence, linking the move to government efforts to prevent exam cheating.
“Confirmed: Metrics show that messaging app Telegram has been restricted in Kenya during KCSE exams,” Netblocks stated. The group added that similar actions had been observed in previous years during national assessments.
The restriction appears to be part of a larger government strategy to control information flow during examinations. The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has been increasingly vocal about the use of encrypted messaging apps to share or sell leaked exam materials.
Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo had earlier announced that a multi-agency team would monitor online platforms around the clock. He emphasized that any individuals or networks attempting to compromise exam integrity would face immediate arrest.
Telegram Linked to Exam Leaks and Fraud Rings
In recent years, Telegram has gained a reputation as a hub for exam-related fraud in Kenya. Investigations have exposed multiple groups using the app to circulate fake or stolen exam papers.
An exposé by NTV in 2024 revealed that fraudsters charged up to Ksh18,000 for what they termed “VIP access” to all KCSE papers. Single papers were reportedly sold for Ksh3,500. Some students and parents, desperate for an edge, fell prey to the scams—losing money for content that was often fake or recycled from past exams.
Authorities have long struggled to shut down such networks. A KNEC report earlier this year identified at least 51 Telegram channels involved in sharing or selling exam content. However, only 18 of these channels had been flagged or taken down at the time of reporting.
WhatsApp has also been named in exam leak investigations. Officials say smaller groups on the platform often act as conduits between Telegram sellers and local students.
Government Rolls Out Stricter KCSE Security Measures
The Ministry of Education has introduced a raft of measures aimed at sealing exam loopholes. Among them is the introduction of personalized examination papers, which are unique to each candidate. This step is meant to enhance accountability and make tracing leaks easier.
The double collection system, first introduced in 2023, remains in place. Under this method, the morning exam papers are distributed first, while afternoon papers are only released shortly before the session begins. Officials say the approach has helped reduce early exposure and collusion.
PS Omollo said surveillance on social media platforms would continue throughout the KCSE period. The monitoring team includes officers from the Communications Authority of Kenya, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), and the Ministry of ICT.
KNEC Chairperson David Njeng’ere emphasized that the integrity of the exams must be protected at all costs. “We are determined to ensure every candidate competes fairly. Any attempt to cheat—digitally or otherwise—will be met with the full force of the law,” he said.
Over 996,000 Students Begin KCSE Under Tight Security
This year, 996,078 students are sitting for the KCSE exams, which run until November 21. The tests will determine university placements and other post-secondary opportunities for the candidates.
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu reassured parents that all necessary measures had been taken to ensure a smooth examination process. He praised teachers, security officers, and invigilators for their continued support in maintaining exam integrity.
Although the restriction on Telegram has inconvenienced some users, many Kenyans online have expressed support for the move. They argue that temporary limits on communication are a small price to pay for preserving fairness in national exams.
Still, digital rights advocates have called for transparency on how the restrictions are implemented. They warn that repeated internet disruptions could set a dangerous precedent for censorship.
For now, the government remains firm. With nearly one million students sitting for KCSE, officials say they will not risk letting technology undermine years of academic effort.
