The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) is developing new frameworks to regulate and safeguard digital innovation as the country continues to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) across critical sectors.
Speaking during the 5th Information Security Management System (ISMS) conference held in Kisumu on Wednesday, KEBS National Standards Council Chairman Dr. Chris Wamalwa emphasized the urgent need to balance AI-driven advancements with robust data security measures.
“AI has played a very critical role in different sectors in the country,” said Dr. Wamalwa. “Like in health care, AI has helped much in the diagnosis, telemedicine, and many other fields.”
Despite the evident benefits, Dr. Wamalwa warned that the rapid growth of AI introduces new challenges that demand immediate attention.
“As AI adds value in the lives of Kenyans, it comes with challenges that need urgent action. We are meeting stakeholders so they can share their experiences and identify the risks in order to help us develop mitigation strategies,” he said.
Key among the concerns raised was the potential misuse of AI by extremist elements and the exposure of personal data. Wamalwa stressed the importance of enforcing existing data protection laws to safeguard citizens’ privacy.
“We have data protection laws, which are critical. As much as players in this space access large volumes of data, we must protect it in line with legal requirements,” he added.
Charles Maru, Chief Manager of the National Quality Institute (NQI) under KEBS, reiterated the significance of the ISMS conference in promoting the adoption of internationally recognized standards to counter digital threats.
“Standards are there to provide solutions,” Maru said. “The challenges we face today can be addressed through the implementation of tested and proven standards.”
He noted that past conferences have already delivered measurable progress in digital safety, and this year’s theme, “Strengthening Digital Transformation Through ISMS in the Era of AI,” is tailored to equip participants with tools to uphold confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information.
The Kisumu forum brought together cybersecurity experts, policymakers, and private sector players in a strategic push to future-proof Kenya’s digital infrastructure amid the AI revolution.
