Kisumu: The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has called for strengthening of security systems across the public and private sectors to secure the country against cyber-attacks. KEBS Board Chairman Dr. Chris Wamalwa highlighted the increasing complexity of cyber threats targeting critical national infrastructure, corporates, and financial institutions, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to enhance security infrastructure investments.

According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Wamalwa, speaking in Kisumu during the 5th Annual Security Management Conference, stated that KEBS is at the forefront of securing Kenya’s digital economy and cyberspace through standardization, metrology, and conformity assessment. He emphasized the importance of ISO/IEC 27001, a global benchmark for Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), in building digital trust.

Dr. Wamalwa advocated for investments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) to advance the fight against cyber threats. He cautioned that Kenya must prepare for both the benefits of AI and the accompanying ethical dilemmas and cybersecurity threats.

KEBS Managing Director Eng. Esther Ngari, in a speech read on her behalf at the conference by KEBS Western Regional Manager Caroline Outa, stated that the agency has implemented measures to enhance cybersecurity in the country. She noted that KEBS has adopted a comprehensive strategy integrating global best practices and internal vigilance to bolster cybersecurity efforts.

Ngari highlighted KEBS’s commitment to Information Security Management System (ISMS) certification based on ISO/IEC 27001:2022, integrated with Business Continuity (BCMS) based on ISO 22301. She emphasized the cultivation of a culture of daily cyber hygiene among KEBS employees, promoting practices such as strong password use, multifactor authentication, and regular system updates.

Outa added that KEBS is actively involved in developing standards for the safe and ethical use of AI, ensuring the technology supports inclusive growth, consumer protection, and national sustainability goals. She underscored the potential of AI-driven innovation to revolutionize Kenya’s industries by automating processes, enhancing service delivery, and improving decision-making, with KEBS playing a crucial role in setting responsible standards to contribute to economic growth.