By Josiah Kariuki
Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke has called for stronger cybersecurity capabilities as artificial intelligence reshapes the digital threat landscape.
Isaboke made the remarks on Tuesday while officially opening the fifth edition of CyberWeek Africa 2026 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), Nairobi.
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The four-day conference, running from October 27 to 30, has brought together government representatives, cybersecurity experts, academics, industry leaders and international partners to discuss emerging digital threats and ways of strengthening Africa’s cybersecurity preparedness.
Held under the theme, “Cyber Threat Intelligence in the Age of AI”, the conference is focusing on the opportunities and risks associated with the growing use of artificial intelligence in digital systems.
The discussions come amid increasing reliance on technology in financial services, public administration, telecommunications and other critical sectors, raising concerns about the vulnerability of digital infrastructure to cyberattacks.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to improve threat detection, identify system vulnerabilities and strengthen responses to cyber incidents. However, the technology also presents new risks, including automated attacks, sophisticated fraud and convincing fraudulent communications.
The conference is examining how institutions can strengthen their ability to identify, anticipate and respond to such threats.
Among those attending the opening were Kenya School of Government Director-General Prof. Nura Mohamed, the institution’s Director Dr Prisca Oluoch, European Union Ambassador to Kenya Andreas Peschke and Emmanuel Kimeu, who is responsible for Security and Audit Control at the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy.
The participation of government agencies, international partners and technology experts highlights the need for cooperation in addressing cyber threats, which frequently extend beyond national borders.
Critical infrastructure
The State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications has a key interest in the discussions, given the importance of secure communication networks to Kenya’s digital economy.
Telecommunications networks and broadcasting systems support information exchange, essential services and connectivity for businesses, government institutions and citizens.
Their protection against unauthorised access, disruption and other cyber threats is therefore central to maintaining reliable digital services.
As Kenya expands its connectivity and digital infrastructure, institutions face the challenge of ensuring that technological growth is accompanied by adequate security measures.
Shape AI governance
The conference has also highlighted the need for African countries to participate actively in developing policies and frameworks governing artificial intelligence.
Discussions have emphasised the importance of ethical leadership, human expertise, critical thinking and responsible technology adoption.
Participants are also examining the need to invest in cybersecurity education, professional training and local technical expertise to strengthen the continent’s capacity to respond to emerging threats.
The conference runs until October 30, with discussions expected to address cyber threat intelligence, digital governance, critical infrastructure protection and cooperation among cybersecurity stakeholders.
