KBC Channel 1

Author: Margaret Kalekye

  • Business as usual in Tharaka Nithi amid demonstrations

    Business as usual in Tharaka Nithi amid demonstrations

    Residents of Tharaka Nithi County went about their normal daily activities on Thursday despite earlier calls for Gen Z demonstrations to mark two years since the deaths and disappearances reported during the June 2024 anti-government protests.

    A spot check in Chuka Town revealed business operations running uninterrupted, with supermarkets, banks, retail shops and other commercial establishments opening as usual.

    Public transport services also operated normally, with matatus and boda boda operators continuing to serve commuters throughout the morning. The town remained calm, with no visible signs of demonstrations or disruption to economic activities.

    Some residents expressed surprise that business proceeded as usual despite widespread publicity surrounding the planned protests.

    Boda boda operator Eric Murimi said many riders had anticipated some level of disruption but reported to work anyway, only to find the situation peaceful.

    “We came to work as usual. We had heard there would be demonstrations today, but everything is calm and customers are being served normally,” he said.

    Businessman James Murithi noted that traders opened their shops early without fear, adding that customers continued shopping as they would on any other day.

    “We opened our businesses early because there was no indication of unrest. Customers have been coming in and business is continuing normally,” said Murithi.

    Matatu driver Martin Koome said transport services had not been affected, with vehicles operating on their regular routes and passengers travelling without interruptions.

    “We are operating normally and passengers are travelling without any problems. Looking at the situation, one would hardly know there were demonstrations planned today,” Koome said.

  • Tanzania’s VAT refund revolution: The quiet reform that could unlock billions in private investment

    Tanzania’s VAT refund revolution: The quiet reform that could unlock billions in private investment

    When governments unveil annual budgets, headlines focus on the big numbers: spending, growth and tax collection.

    But sometimes the real story sits quietly in the technical annexes.

    Tanzania’s 2026/27 budget, due to take effect from July, includes plans for 6.3%GDP growth and the biggest spending plan in the country’s history, while narrowing the deficit. Yet one quieter reform may prove more consequential: VAT refunds.

    This mundane issue has been one of the biggest friction points in Tanzania’s investment story for years.

    For exporters, manufacturers and institutional investors, delayed VAT refunds have long acted like an invisible tax. Businesses routinely waited months, sometimes years, to recover money they were legally owed. By 2025, pending refunds had reached roughly $650 million. In effect, companies were financing the state with their own working capital, often without a clear repayment timeline.

    Investors notice these things. A country may advertise a competitive VAT rate, generous incentives and ambitious growth plans. But if businesses cannot reliably recover VAT credits, the real cost of doing business rises sharply. In 2022, Tanzania attracted $922 million in foreign direct investment, compared with Kenya’s $2 billion and Ethiopia’s $3.1 billion. The gap has many causes, but administrative friction is consistently high on investor concern lists.

    The 2026/27 budget introduces a mandatory 30-day timeline for VAT refunds, backed by statutory interest if the government fails to pay on time. Previously, refund timelines functioned more as administrative guidance than enforceable law. Now delays carry a financial cost for the state, turning VAT refunds into a binding obligation.

    The scale of the problem should not be underestimated. Anthony Chamanga, Chief Development Manager of the Tanzania Horticultural Association, warned that sustained VAT refund delays had led to “dire financial straits, with some companies failing to meet critical obligations such as loan repayments and timely salary disbursements.” Across sectors, the pattern was the same: legitimate credits trapped in the system and quietly eroding business finances.

    That is what this budget aims to change. As Rahim Dossa, Vice Chairman of the Tanzania Truck Owners Association, noted, the reform will “improve cash flow, reduce investment costs and support fleet expansion.”

    The benefits extend further: lenders can assess financing needs more confidently, and investors can model returns with greater accuracy. In short, capital becomes easier and cheaper to deploy.

    The significance of this reform extends beyond VAT administration.

    For years, African governments have competed for investment by offering tax holidays, exemptions and special incentives. While such measures can help, investors often care just as much about predictability and administrative efficiency.

    A tax incentive is worth little if it takes years to access. A favourable tax rate means less if compliance is cumbersome and refunds remain trapped in bureaucracy. The budget suggests Tanzania increasingly understands this reality.

    The regional backdrop makes the change more significant. In Kenya, VAT refund delays remain a complaint among exporters despite formal mechanisms. Uganda also sees cash-flow strain linked to compliance and verification.

    Across the region, the pattern is similar: VAT is theoretically neutral, but delays turn it into a financing burden. Tanzania’s move to hard-code a 30-day limit with penalties is therefore a meaningful step toward international best practice.

    The refund change is not happening in isolation.

    Another important adjustment is the removal of the expiry on VAT deferment for imported capital goods. Investors importing machinery, industrial equipment or infrastructure inputs will no longer face uncertainty over whether they must pay VAT upfront before production begins. That matters because those upfront costs can materially reshape project financing.

    Taken together, the two reforms create a powerful combination. VAT deferment reduces the cash investors must commit at the start of a project. Faster refunds ensure legitimate VAT credits do not become trapped later in the system. The combined effect is a meaningful reduction in the cost of investment within a single fiscal cycle.

    Tanzania’s corporate tax rate of 30% remains above regional peers including Kenya and Ethiopia, both at 25%. But serious investors are not simply comparing headline rates. They are assessing whether refunds arrive on time, whether deferred obligations become surprise liabilities, and whether the system performs as written. On those questions, Tanzania has made a more credible commitment.

    Of course, implementation will determine whether the reform delivers its full impact. Businesses will be watching closely to see whether refunds are processed within the promised timeframe and whether interest payments are honoured when delays occur. As with many reforms, credibility will be built through execution rather than announcements.

    Still, the direction of travel is encouraging. The lesson extends beyond Tanzania. The most competitive economies are not always those with the lowest taxes, but those where systems work smoothly, consistently and predictably.

    Tanzania’s VAT refund reform fits squarely into that category. It is not flashy or politically loud. But if implemented properly, it could unlock significant private investment simply by ensuring businesses get their own money back on time.

    That is the kind of reform that does not always make headlines but often changes outcomes.

  • June 25 protests: Murkomen urges protesters to steer clear of goons, criminals

    June 25 protests: Murkomen urges protesters to steer clear of goons, criminals

    Security agencies are investigating claims that a section of the political class is funding goons to disrupt the planned June 25 protests.

    Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said intelligence reports indicate that some politicians are mobilising armed groups while pretending to urge Kenyans, particularly Gen Zs, to stay away from the demonstrations.

    “It has come to our attention, however, that some political actors have planned to use the protests for their political campaigns and are hell-bent on mobilising goons, gangs and criminals with all manner of crude weapons to cause mayhem by attacking businesses and innocent civilians”, he disclosed.

    Murkomen revealed that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is already probing reported cases of individuals mobilising and sponsoring Kenyans to engage in violent activities during the protests.

    “The Director, Directorate of Criminal Investigations, is already investigating reported cases of individuals who are mobilising and sponsoring Kenyans to take part in violent activities and will be on high alert tomorrow. Those responsible will face the full force of the law,” he stated.

    The CS also expressed concern over what he described as unfortunate utterances by some leaders, including from the religious community, inciting members of the public by insinuating that the Government supports goons and criminals.

    He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting peaceful and unarmed demonstrators, but warned that anyone involved in violence, looting, or other criminal activities would be dealt with decisively in accordance with the law.

    Murkomen assured Kenyans that security agencies are on high alert to safeguard lives, property, and businesses during the demonstrations.

    “The Government respects the constitutional rights of all Kenyans to peaceably assemble for whatever reason, on any day. Police are, therefore, ready to provide security and guide the protesters tomorrow according to their request,” he said.

    The CS further stressed that Thursday will be a normal working and learning day across the country.

    “Thursday will be a normal business and school day. Our children are free to go to school and people to go about their businesses. The Constitution guarantees the right to education and lawful means of earning a living”, the government said.

    Members of the public have been advised to remain vigilant and avoid associating with groups engaging in criminal activities during the demonstrations to make it easier for police to protect peaceful demonstrators and enforce the law.

    “We expect that members of the public, including protesters, will not wait for the police to make their security and safety choices. Even if you are a peaceful protester and find yourself in the middle of goons and criminals, it is advisable that you make the right decision by disassociating yourself from this company. This will make it easier for the police to enforce the law”, he appealed.

  • JKIA Upgrade: China Road and Bridge Corporation awarded Ksh154.2B contract

    JKIA Upgrade: China Road and Bridge Corporation awarded Ksh154.2B contract

    The Government has signed a Ksh154.2B contract with China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) for the upgrade of Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

    The contract was signed on behalf of the Government by Principal Secretary for Aviation and Aerospace Development Teresia Mbaika, while CRBC was represented by its General Manager, Yu Xiaodong.

    Transport Minister Davis Chirchir, who announced in a statement posted on his X, said the procurement process has been ongoing over the past three months following the completion of the JKIA Master Plan in February 2026.

    More than 40 companies participated in the pre-bid conference held in April 2026, which clarified the project expectations and scope of work.

    He said the process was conducted in full compliance with applicable procurement laws and regulatory requirements, with all submissions evaluated on technical and financial merit.

    The JKIA Modernisation Project is expected to expand the airport’s capacity, improve safety, enhance passenger and cargo handling services, and strengthen Kenya’s position as a leading regional aviation hub.

    The project scope includes the construction of a new passenger terminal and related support facilities, the modernisation and upgrading of existing airport infrastructure, improvements to airside and landside operations, and measures aimed at boosting operational efficiency and service delivery.

    The CS said the tendering process was conducted in accordance with procurement laws and regulations, with bids evaluated based on both technical and financial merit before CRBC emerged as the successful contractor.

    The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and adherence to procurement standards, saying the project will deliver world-class aviation infrastructure, position JKIA as Africa’s premier gateway, and support Kenya’s economic growth and competitiveness.

     

     

  • Utumishi Girls fire: DPP approves 16 murder charges against students

    Utumishi Girls fire: DPP approves 16 murder charges against students

    The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has approved murder charges against students implicated in the deadly dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County that claimed 16 lives.

    The nine students who were remanded for 21 days on June 3 are expected to appear in court on Wednesday, June 24.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Office of the DPP said it had reviewed the preliminary inquiry file submitted by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) regarding the arson incident that occurred on May 28, 2026.

    The DPP said the suspects will face 16 counts of murder linked to the incident.

    “Upon careful assessment of the evidence, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has approved charges against the implicated students. The suspects will face sixteen (16) counts of murder arising from the incident”

    The DPP also expressed concern over the recent number of arson attacks and other criminal acts reported in learning institutions across the country, warning that those found responsible will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

    “The DPP expresses deep concern over the recent increase in reported incidents of arson and other related acts of criminal conduct in educational institutions across the country. We wish to caution students and members of the public that individuals found culpable of such criminal offences of this nature will be held accountable in accordance with the law”.

    The DPP further extended its sympathies to the families of the victims, their friends and the wider school community affected by the tragedy.

    “The Office remains committed to ensuring that justice is served through a fair, impartial and evidence-based prosecution process,” the statement added.

    “The ODPP further reaffirms its constitutional mandate to uphold the rule of law, protect the public interest, promote the administration of justice, and ensure accountability where criminal conduct is established through investigations.”

    The sstudents who were remanded on June 3 for 21 days are expected to be arraigned in court Wednesday June 24.

  • President William Ruto signs Finance Bill 2026 into law

    President William Ruto signs Finance Bill 2026 into law

    President William Ruto assented to the Finance Bill and the Appropriation Bill into law at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday.

    The President explained that the two laws will provide the legal framework and resources required to finance Kenya’s transformation priorities, create jobs, strengthen livelihoods and invest in more programmes and projects under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

    “The vision is clear, the agenda is set, the plan is funded and on course, the transformation is happening and, together, we are building the prosperous, inclusive and modern nation that we all deserve,” he said.

    President Ruto cautioned Kenyans against falling for propaganda and misinformation about the Finance Act propagated by the opposition to advance their selfish cause.

    “Together, we must reject propaganda, misinformation, disinformation, fake news, insults, hate, ethnic bigotry and profiling, and division,” he said.

    He said the Finance Act, 2026, does not raise taxes that affect ordinary citizens.

    Instead, he said, it improves fairness by strengthening compliance, closing loopholes and ensuring that every individual and business pays what is lawfully due.

    “We are pursuing tax avoidance, not taxpayers; offshore schemes, not ordinary wages; and leakages, not livelihoods,” he said.

    Contrary to misinformation, he explained, there are no taxes on freehold land, no taxes on mitumba, no changes on rental income tax, no tax on bottled water, no new tax on M-PESA or mobile money transactions, no new tax on mobile phones, airtime or data, and no new tax on locally manufactured packaging.

    The President pointed out that the Finance law supports livelihoods through incentives for motorcycles, electric buses and bicycles, solar batteries and locally assembled mobile phones.

    He added that the duty on imported sugar has been increased from KSh7.50 to KSh40 a kilo to protect local producers, safeguard 17 operational factories and support the livelihoods of 10 million Kenyans who depend on the sector.

    He further noted that a six-month tax amnesty will waive penalties and interest on outstanding tax obligations while mortgage tax benefits previously available only through banks have been extended to borrowers in microfinance institutions.

    He also announced that the duty-free allowance for returning travellers and Kenyans in the diaspora has been increased from KSh39,000 ($300) to KSh260,000 ($2,000).

    President Ruto explained that tax incentives for projects implemented through public-private partnerships and the National Infrastructure Fund will lower delivery costs, accelerate implementation and support efforts to progressively reduce the country’s debt burden.

    “This is what a fair tax system looks like: One that protects the vulnerable, rewards enterprise, promotes compliance and shares responsibility fairly,” he said.

    On the Budget, the President noted that it invests in people, productivity and prosperity.

    He said education has received the highest allocation at KSh784 billion, up from KSh526 billion in 2022, while funding for health has increased from KSh132.4 billion to KSh175.5 billion and agriculture from KSh44 billion to KSh63 billion.

    On education, the President pointed out that 20,000 teachers on contract will be employed on permanent and pensionable terms, while a further 24,000 teachers will be recruited, bringing the total number hired under his administration to 124,000.

    In higher education, funding for the Higher Education Loans Board has increased to KSh56.7 billion, while KSh40.4 billion has been allocated for university, Kenya Medical Training College and TVET scholarships.

    He pointed out that KSh3 billion has been allocated for school feeding programmes to support 2.8 million vulnerable learners while KSh15 billion will be spent on construction of classrooms and laboratories, and the teaching of science, technology, engineering and mathematics education under the Competency-Based Education and Training system.

    On healthcare, President Ruto noted that KSh19.1 billion has been allocated to primary healthcare, ensuring Kenyans registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA) can access outpatient services at accredited facilities without paying.

    “As a result, no Kenyan should pay for outpatient services at dispensaries, health centres and sub-county health facilities in SHA-accredited public, private or faith-based hospitals,” he said.

    He added that KEMSA funding has increased from KSh5 billion to KSh21 billion to strengthen the supply of medicines and medical commodities across the country.

    On agriculture, President Ruto noted that funding for the sector has increased to KSh63 billion from KSh44 billion last year.

    He explained that KSh20 billion has been allocated for seed and fertiliser subsidies, up from no allocation in 2022, helping maintain fertiliser prices at KSh2,500 a bag, down from KSh7,500 in 2022. He noted that 6.5 million farmers are already benefiting from the programme.

    The President added that KSh5.4 billion has been allocated for food resilience programmes, KSh2.7 billion to support farmers and workers in the sugar sector, KSh2 billion to waive coffee farmers’ debts and KSh500 million for the Coffee Cherry Fund.

    He further noted that young farmers will benefit from a KSh1.3 billion credit facility, while pastoralists resilience and livestock commercialisation programmes have received KSh3.3 billion and KSh1.3 billion respectively.

    In addition, KSh5.5 billion has been allocated to support 300,000 pastoralist farmers in 21 arid and semi-arid counties through cooperatives.

    Additionally, the President noted that KSh 110 billion has been committed to programmes targeting women, youth and vulnerable groups.

    This includes KSh22.6 billion for youth programmes, KSh12.4 billion for the National Youth Service, KSh8.8 billion for affordable credit to small businesses and KSh25 billion for cash transfers benefiting 1.2 million vulnerable households.

    To enhance access to justice and strengthen the rule of law, funding for the Judiciary has increased from KSh16 billion in 2022 to KSh30 billion in the financial year’s budget.

    A total of KSh138 billion has been allocated to affordable housing and urban development.

    “We are investing in housing, infrastructure, energy and digital connectivity because growth requires jobs, mobility and opportunity,” he said.

    The President also highlighted major investments in infrastructure, energy and connectivity, including KSh225 billion for roads, KSh52 billion for transport infrastructure and KSh20.8 billion for the extension of the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Kisumu and Malaba.

    To cushion Kenyans against fluctuations of fuel prices, KSh21.5 billion has been set aside for fuel stabilisation.

    He also explained that KSh10.5 billion has been allocated to the digital economy to expand fibre connectivity, digitise government services and create more opportunities for young people.

    At the same time, President Ruto said KSh112.4 billion has been allocated to water, sanitation and environmental protection projects, while KSh 9.4 billion has been set aside to address the longstanding land question at the Coast region through the settlement of landless families and squatters.

    He further noted that investments in the blue economy will support the establishment of 15 fish landing sites and markets, rescue centres, rescue boats and expanded ferry services.

    In sports, KSh26.4 billion has been allocated to complete 39 stadia, prepare for AFCON 2027 and support sportsmen and sportswomen who participate in sporting activities globally.

    “The ultimate measure of this Budget will be the opportunities it creates and the lives it transforms,” he said.

    The President also assented to the Supplementary Appropriation Act, 2026.

    Present were Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, ODM Party Leader and Senator of Siaya Oburu Oginga, and MPs led by National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah.

  • Martha Karua denied entry into Uganda

    Martha Karua denied entry into Uganda

    Senior Counsel and People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has reportedly been denied entry into Uganda upon her arrival at Entebbe International Airport on Monday.

    Karua had travelled aboard a Kenya Airways flight alongside Law Society of Kenya President Charles Kanjama to attend a court session related to a bail application ruling involving Ugandan lawyer and politician Elias Lukwago.

    A statement issued by her office at 1:00 p.m. EAT said Law Society of Kenya President Charles Kanjama was allowed entry into Uganda while she was allegedly detained at Entebbe International Airport on Monday morning.

    According to teams on the ground, Karua, who is lead counsel in the treason case facing Ugandan opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused Obeid Lutale, remained held at the airport.

    The statement added that Karua was expected to return to Nairobi the same day. Her team reports that she is unreachable,

    “Karua was scheduled to return to Nairobi today but remains incommunicado. Her senior team reports that she is unreachable, with her mobile phones switched off, and they continue to await direct communication regarding her status and expected return.”

    Karua is a member of both the Law Society of Kenya and the East Africa Law Society. She previously served as a cabinet minister in the Kenyan government, holding several portfolios, including Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs.

    She has been actively involved in Kizza Besigye’s case since his abduction in Nairobi on November 16, 2024, during her book launch, has continued to lead his defense under a valid legal practicing certificate issued in Uganda. Her certification is registered through the law firm of Erias Lukwago, the immediate former Lord Mayor of Kampala.

    Lukwago, who serves as co-lead counsel alongside Ms. Karua in Besigye’s defense, was taken into custody on June 15.

    Initial confirmation of Lukwago’s arrest and whereabouts was made public through a social media post by Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on his official X account.

    Meanwhile, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has called on Ugandan authorities to explain the decision to deny her entry.

    In a statement issued on Monday, LSK President Charles Kanjama said he was admitted into Uganda while Karua was turned away despite both lawyers travelling in the same professional capacity.

    Kanjama said he was in Uganda as part of the defence team representing Lukwago, charged with a treason-related offence. He expressed concern over the treatment of Karua, who was also scheduled to participate in the matter.

    “Of particular concern is the decision by Ugandan authorities to deny entry to Senior Counsel Martha Karua, who was travelling to Uganda for the same matter and in the same professional capacity,” Kanjama said.

    He argued that the right to legal representation and the independence of counsel are fundamental principles of the administration of justice.

    “The right to legal representation and the independence of counsel are fundamental to the administration of justice. It is difficult to understand why one member of a defence team should be admitted while another is turned away. We call upon the Ugandan authorities to provide an explanation for this action and to uphold the rule of law and regional cooperation that underpin the East African Law Society”, he said.

  • Traders’ association decries recurrent Gikomba fires, demands action

    Traders’ association decries recurrent Gikomba fires, demands action

    Safety gaps at Gikomba Market have once again come under scrutiny following a devastating fire that claimed two lives, destroyed businesses and left hundreds of traders counting massive losses.

    The Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya (MCAK) has blamed the tragedy on years of inadequate safety measures and failure by public authorities to act on repeated warnings over fire preparedness at the country’s largest open-air market.

    “This tragedy is not an isolated incident. It is the latest manifestation of a longstanding failure by public authorities to adequately protect traders despite repeated warnings, recurring fires, and countless promises of reform”, the Consortium said while calling for a thorough probe into the fire.

    MCAK regretted that despite numerous attempts by traders and stakeholders to engage Nairobi County Government on market safety and fire preparedness, little meaningful action has been taken.

    “Our efforts to seek intervention on the urgent need for improved emergency response mechanisms at Gikomba have largely gone unanswered. Of even greater concern is the fact that the Gikomba Fire Station, whose construction was completed to improve emergency response within the market, was reportedly not operational at the time of the fire and therefore played no role in containing the disaster”, it said.

    The situation, MCAK said, raises serious questions about government priorities and accountability. “Traders deserve an explanation as to why a completed public facility intended to save lives and property remains dormant while livelihoods continue to go up in flames.”

    The traders’ body is now demanding accountability from Nairobi County Government, including an explanation for the delayed operationalisation of the fire station and a transparent investigation into the cause of the inferno.

    In a statement, MCAK further called on both the national and county governments to provide immediate support to affected traders, modernise market infrastructure, improve fire safety systems and strengthen disaster preparedness measures to prevent future tragedies.

    “We therefore call upon Governor Sakaja and Nairobi County Government to explain why the Gikomba Fire Station remains non-operational and to immediately operationalise the facility. We further demand a thorough, transparent, and independent investigation into the cause of the fire”, the traders demanded.

    They described Gikomba as an economic lifeline for thousands of Kenyan families. “This tragedy must serve as a turning point. The lives and livelihoods of Kenyan traders cannot continue to be sacrificed at the altar of government inaction. The people of Gikomba deserve more than promises—they deserve functioning infrastructure, responsive leadership, and the protection of their investments”.

    Recurring fires at Gikomba have left traders trapped in a cycle of loss and recovery, with growing calls for a permanent solution to safeguard lives, businesses and livelihoods.

    “This tragedy is not an isolated incident. It is the latest manifestation of a longstanding failure by public authorities to adequately protect traders despite repeated warnings, recurring fires, and countless promises of reform”, the association decried.

  • UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigns

    UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer resigns

    UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has announced he will resign as prime minister and leader of the Labour Party.

    In a statement outside 10 Downing Street, he said every decision he has made in office has been about “putting the country I love first”.

    Starmer thanked his “fantastic wife, Vic”, describing her as a “rock”. He also says he wants to be the “best dad I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and joy”.

    He further said he will do everything he can to ensure an orderly handover of power and will give his successor his full support.

    Andy Burnham, who could replace the PM, will be sworn in as MP for Makerfield, after winning the by-election last week

  • Parliament approves establishment of National Cybersecurity Agency

    Parliament approves establishment of National Cybersecurity Agency

    Parliament has approved the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Agency  (NCSA) to regulate, coordinate cybersecurity efforts and protect Kenya’s digital infrastructure.

    The Ministry of Interior and National Administration welcomed the move, saying the agency will serve as an autonomous regulatory and technical body mandated to coordinate national cybersecurity efforts and enhance the protection of the country’s digital systems and networks.

    The Agency has been established through the National Cybersecurity Agency Order, 2026, issued by President William Ruto pursuant to the provisions of the State Corporations Act (Cap. 446).

    “Establishment of the Agency marks a significant step in Kenya’s efforts to secure its rapidly expanding digital ecosystem and safeguard critical information infrastructure that supports national security, public service delivery, economic activity and the daily lives of millions of Kenyans”, the ministry said.

    Over the last decade, Kenya has emerged as one of Africa’s leading digital economies, driven by advancements in mobile money, digital financial services, e-government platforms, telecommunications, health information systems, education technology and online commerce.

    It further said the developments have expanded opportunities for innovation, investment and service delivery, including increased exposure to cyber threats targeting both public and private sector systems.

    Data breaches

    Cybercrime, ransomware attacks, online fraud, identity theft, malicious software, data breaches, misinformation campaigns and attacks on critical digital infrastructure continue to pose growing risks to national security, economic stability and public confidence in digital services.

    As such, the ministry said the agency will provide a coordinated national framework for preventing, detecting, responding to and recovering from cyber threats.

    “As government institutions, businesses and citizens become increasingly reliant on digital technologies, strengthening cybersecurity has become a national priority. It will serve as Kenya’s central technical and regulatory institution on cybersecurity matters and will work closely with Government agencies, security institutions, regulators, industry players, academia, development partners and international cybersecurity networks”, it explained in a release.

    Core functions

    The Agency will formulate and oversee the implementation of national cybersecurity strategies across the public and private sectors; audit and certify the cybersecurity resilience of designated critical information infrastructure; manage the National Cybersecurity Operations Centre; support sector-based cybersecurity operations centres; conduct technical assessments of digital networks; identify emerging vulnerabilities; issue technical advisories; and coordinate national responses to cybersecurity incidents.

    It will also establish a Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence to promote research, innovation, skills development and the creation of locally developed cybersecurity solutions.

    In addition, it will lead efforts to address the country’s cybersecurity skills gap through professional certification programmes, specialised training and technical capacity-building initiatives. Recognising that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, the Agency will serve as a platform for collaboration between government, industry, academia and international partners to strengthen resilience across all sectors of the economy.

    It will also facilitate information sharing, promote best practices and support the harmonisation of cybersecurity standards and frameworks.

    Composition

    To ensure a whole-of-government approach to cybersecurity, the Agency’s Board will bring together representation from key national institutions, including Internal Security, the National Treasury, Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, the Office of the Attorney-General, the Kenya Defence Forces, the National Police Service, the National Intelligence Service and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, alongside representatives from academia and the private sector.

    “The establishment of the National Cybersecurity Agency reflects the Government’s recognition that cybersecurity is no longer solely a technical issue but a strategic national security, economic and governance priority”, the Ministry emphasised.

    The government further assured it remains committed to building robust cybersecurity capabilities that protect national interests while supporting innovation, economic growth and public trust in digital systems.

    It called upon public institutions, private sector organisations, academic institutions and all stakeholders to work closely with the National Cybersecurity Agency in building a secure, resilient and trusted digital ecosystem for the benefit of all Kenyans.