Ministry of Interior and National Administration: Security Outlook
Kenya witnessed a surge in cyber threats, major security operations, and natural disasters in October, according to the latest State Department for Internal Security and National Administration report.
The report, presented by Principal Secretary Dr Raymond Omollo during the monthly Principal Secretaries and Accounting Officers Coordination Meeting chaired by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei, painted a picture of a challenging month for national security and administration.
PS Omollo said there was a sharp rise in cyber incidents, including ransomware, data breaches, and AI-driven scams.
He noted that misinformation and disinformation surrounding the proposed amendments to the Computer Misuse and Cybercrime Act (2024) exposed the country’s digital vulnerabilities.
“This highlighted the need for enhanced digital literacy and cybersecurity measures,” the PS said.
Among the most notable security operations was the interception of a narcotics consignment worth Sh8 billion off the coast of Mombasa.
The PS said the operation “reaffirmed to the world Kenya’s growing cooperation in tackling transnational crime, including narcotrafficking.”
Public order management, however, remained a concern. Chaotic scenes and fatalities were reported during the public viewings of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga, which briefly disrupted operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
Despite these challenges, the government successfully coordinated the delivery of national examinations across all regions. Omollo commended the Deputy County Commissioners and the National Command Centre for their role in ensuring the process was completed smoothly and securely.
In the North Rift, over 600 illegal firearms were recovered amid ongoing banditry, while fresh protests along the Isiolo–Meru corridor tested local administration. Renewed inter-communal tensions in Trans Mara also led to casualties and destruction of property.
Security teams at the Namanga border moved swiftly to contain tensions linked to Tanzania’s elections, preventing any escalation. The month also saw a tragic plane crash in Kwale County involving ten European tourists and a Kenyan pilot, which “tested our emergency coordination systems,” according to the PS.
As the month drew to a close, heavy rains triggered floods and landslides in several regions. Elgeyo Marakwet was the worst affected, with deaths, injuries, and destruction of property reported.
PS Omollo said the State Department would continue strengthening coordination and preparedness measures to enhance national resilience against evolving threats—from cybercrime and transnational crime to natural disasters.
