This archive report was first published on 5 November 2021.
Kenya has taken a significant step in the fight against cybercrime with the launch of the National Computer and Cyber Crimes Co-ordination Committee (NCCCC) on November 4, 2021.
The committee, established under the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act of 2018, will consolidate action on the detection, investigation, and prosecution of cybercrimes.
Speaking at the launch, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiangi emphasized the importance of addressing cybercrime, citing the industry's estimated value of $13 billion and its growing influence on daily life.
"The Cyber crime industry the last time I checked was about 13 billion US dollar industry and it has probably grown beyond that. Nations around the world are pumping resources into research because the truth of the matter is this, whether we like it or not, from now until probably we exit this universe our lives are going to be influenced by 3D's, data, devices and designs," Matiangi said.
Matiangi also highlighted the misuse of social media as a major threat to national security and integration, warning of a sustained crackdown against individuals who misuse social media, especially ahead of the August 2022 general elections.
ICT Cabinet Secretary Joe Mucheru emphasized the need for serious investment in the cyber security sector to ensure online safety for individuals and institutions.
"You are aware the other day Facebook faced challenges, some people interfered with their systems, We are vulnerable to such systems if we don't have strong laws and people whose day to day job is focused on making sure that our infrastructure and our systems are working," he said.
The NCCCC comprises representatives from various agencies, including the Kenya Defence Forces, the National Police Service, and the Communications Authority of Kenya.
