The National Defence University-Kenya successfully hosted its first-ever National Cyber-Security Symposium, themed “Enhancing Cyber Security for National Development,” with Hon. Eliud Owalo, Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Information Communications and the Digital Economy, as the distinguished guest on Thursday, October 26, 2023. This significant symposium assembled a diverse group of stakeholders from the public, private sectors, academia, and seasoned cybersecurity professionals.

Together, they engaged in thoughtful discussions on the effectiveness of existing cyber security measures to safeguard Kenya’s digital space and proposed innovative strategies to tackle modern and emerging cyber threats for the nation’s overall well-being.

Hon. Eliud Owalo emphasized the critical role of cyber security in Kenya’s national development, considering the country’s increasing digitization. Protecting vital infrastructure, economic interests, and national security is paramount. He reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing cyber security and urged both state and non-state actors to unite in addressing vulnerabilities within the cyber domain. As digitalization benefits Kenyans, it also casts shadows, and cyber security is essential to manage these challenges.

Defence Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale reaffirmed the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to integrating ICT reinforcements into its systems and agencies. Additionally, he disclosed the ministry’s dedication to allocate substantial funding and resources to research, policy formulation, and security enhancements, with an emphasis on cyber security.

General Francis Ogolla, Chief of Defence Forces and board chairperson, emphasized the symposium’s importance in equipping both state and non-state actors with the knowledge and experience necessary to devise resolutions against cyber threats. He also called for the regular review of legal and regulatory frameworks governing cyberspace to address current challenges effectively.

Major General Said Farah, Vice Chancellor of the National Defence University-Kenya, underscored the interconnected nature of today’s digital landscape, necessitating scholarly endeavors and technological innovations to tackle evolving threats effectively. Distinguished experts from various sectors attended the symposium, contributing their insights and expertise to further enhance Kenya’s cyber security landscape.