In 2023, Kenya encountered significant technological challenges as the nation moved towards greater advancements, facing obstacles that highlighted the vulnerabilities inherent in the digital landscape.
Here is a list of the major technologicals obstacles Kenya faced throught the year.
Hacking by Anonymous Sudan
One major hurdle came in the form of a hacking incident orchestrated by a group identified as Anonymous Sudan in July.
The group targeted essential government online platforms, including eCitizen, which provides over 5,000 services to Kenyans.
State agencies, private companies, and media outlets also fell victim to the cyber attacks, causing widespread confusion among citizens regarding the safety of their data.
Anonymous Sudan, vocal about its motives online, claimed the attack was a warning to the Kenyan government against involvement in Sudanese affairs, particularly related to accusations of President William Ruto funding the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Despite the chaos, Cabinet Secretary for ICT Eliud Owalo assured citizens that their data was secure, emphasising ongoing efforts by the government to enhance cybersecurity measures.
Worldcoin Activities
In July, Kenyans found themselves caught up in the Worldcoin phenomenon, where they were offered Ksh7,000 in exchange for having their eyes scanned.
The global company, founded by billionaire Sam Altman, established registration stations in Kenya, leading to long queues and scrutiny from government authorities.
Divergent views emerged within the government, with Interior counterpart Kithure Kindiki asserting that Worldcoin was not legally operating in Kenya, while ICT CS Eliud Owalo maintained that the company had not violated any laws.
Concerns over the unknown implications of the data collected prompted Parliament to establish a 15-member committee to investigate Worldcoin's activities in the country.
TikTok Ban
Another noteworthy development in 2023 was the call for a ban on TikTok.
A concerned Kenyan raised moral objections, asserting that the platform was negatively impacting the values of the population.
The proposal for a ban prompted varied responses from Kenyans and local leaders, with Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung’wah highlighting the employment opportunities created by TikTok for the youth.
The ICT CS, Eliud Owalo, echoed concerns about explicit content shared during late-night live sessions on TikTok.
He suggested a potential amendment to the Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act to address these concerns and protect Kenyans from objectionable content.
