114 Cyber Attack Attempts on Kenyan Government Infrastructure

Kenyan government agencies recorded a worrying 114 cyber-attack attempts targeting critical state information infrastructure between January and August 2024, according to a national security report tabled in Parliament. The figure, revealed during President William Ruto’s State of the Nation address, underscores growing vulnerabilities as the country rapidly digitises its public services. Nation Africa+2TechTrendsKE+2
The report attributes the surge to the digital migration of many public services, which has increased reliance on web-based platforms. Nation Africa+2TechTrendsKE+2 According to the document, these threats include malware, social‑engineering attacks, online fraud, and subversive activities such as espionage—posing risks not only to service continuity but also to national security. TechTrendsKE+1 The government also pointed to the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) as a double‑edged sword: while AI brings benefits, it also introduces new attack vectors that cybercriminals can exploit. Nation Africa
In response, the government is advancing several measures to shore up its digital defences. It has introduced the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Management Regulations (2024) to improve information sharing and coordinate responses to incidents. Nation Africa+1 A multi‑agency approach has been adopted, notably through the National KE‑CIRT/CC (Kenya Computer Incident Response Team) housed under the Communications Authority, which now monitors cyber threats closely. TechTrendsKE However, gaps remain: weak cybersecurity hygiene among the public, coupled with limited detection and response capabilities, continue to leave critical systems exposed. Nation Africa
Looking ahead, Kenya’s cyber posture is likely to become a major policy focus as the country deepens its digital transformation. To stay ahead of increasingly sophisticated attackers—especially those leveraging AI-based tools—the government must invest in modern cybersecurity infrastructure, strengthen public awareness, and maintain close partnerships with international and multilateral organisations. TechTrendsKE+1 If successful, these efforts could build stronger resilience and protect vital government platforms from future incursions.