This archive report was first published on 21 June 2020.
On June 21, 2020, the Kenyan government took a significant step towards ensuring online safety by ordering the Communication Authority of Kenya and internet service providers to develop a comprehensive plan for training citizens on how to use technology safely.
The move comes in response to a surge in cybercrime cases, including an increase in minors consuming pornography and falling victim to cyber fraud. ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru emphasized the importance of protecting minors and assisting parents in filtering internet content.
According to Mucheru, the training will help safeguard citizens in the cyber space and equip them with the necessary skills to navigate the internet safely. He also highlighted the government's efforts to promote digital literacy, stating that over 5,000 youths are being trained to earn digital jobs.
Notably, Mucheru's comments coincided with an announcement by Health Ministry counterpart Mutahi Kagwe, who reported a significant increase in coronavirus cases, bringing the total to 4,738 countrywide.
The government's initiative follows a recent incident in Kisii county, where 38 teenagers were arrested for engaging in group sex and filming videos. The teenagers were found with a music amplifier and phone cameras, which they used to record the incident.
Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha had previously expressed concerns about the rise in teenage pregnancies and proposed the formation of a law to block pornographic content in the country.
