From September 23 to 27, 2024, the University of Nairobi hosted the second edition of Cyberweek Africa 2024. The risks associated with the digital age are increasing along with it, which makes cybersecurity a critical issue that calls for a multi-sectoral approach to counteract escalating threats. This incident ushers in a new era of government, business, and academic cooperation in the battle against cybercrime. Cybersecurity is a critical issue that need a multi-sectoral approach to combat the escalating hazards that accompany the advancement of the digital age.

Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo stressed in a keynote speech the value of a strong cybersecurity framework in securing Kenya’s digital future. Dr. Omollo, who serves as the chairwoman of the National Computer and Cybercrime Coordination Committee (NC4), cautioned that the dangers posed by malevolent actors are heightened by the quick rise in technology reliance. “The risks we confront get more complex as our reliance on technology increases. Therefore, it is crucial that we develop robust cybersecurity skills and be ready to take on these issues head-on,” he said, calling for a concerted effort to fight cybercrime. In order to strengthen Kenya’s cyber defenses, he called for cooperation between the public and corporate sectors as well as with foreign parties.

The opening of the Department of Computer Science’s Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence earlier this year was one of the event’s most notable achievements. The Kenya School of Government, NC4, and CyberPro Global collaborated to create this center, which functions as a training ground and research center for cybersecurity experts. The department of computer science chair, Prof. Kahonge, highlighted the center’s ability to connect theory and real-world application. He praised the university’s students for their extraordinary skill, pointing out that they are not only getting ready for the job but are also influencing the direction of AI and cybersecurity.

Beyond individual success, Cyberweek Africa 2024 is about the collective effort to secure Kenya’s digital infrastructure. The event will host a series of discussions, workshops, and presentations aimed at enhancing cybersecurity policies, improving industry practices, and fostering workforce development. It will also address emerging threats, such as state-sponsored cyberattacks, with experts exploring new ways to safeguard both government systems and the private sector.