The Kenyan government will now require social media companies to establish physical offices within the country, signaling a move towards tighter regulation of digital platforms.
The announcement came from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration following discussions with stakeholders in the telecommunications and social media sectors.
In a statement, the ministry emphasized the need to address the misuse of social media and technology, including harassment, hate speech, and incitement to violence. “We arrived at a consensus on the need to curb misuse of technology and social media, including enhancing the physical presence of key operators,” the statement read.
This regulatory push comes six months after widespread protests against the now-withdrawn 2024 Finance Bill, which proposed new taxes on essential commodities such as edible oil and sanitary pads. Social media platforms like TikTok and X played a pivotal role during the demonstrations, with livestreams and hashtags like #RejectTheFinanceBill2024 gaining significant traction.
The hashtag amassed over 4 million impressions in just a few days, amplifying the voices of Kenyans protesting economic hardships under President William Ruto’s administration.
The July 2024 protests, considered among the longest-running in Kenya’s history, resulted in the deaths of dozens of citizens. Although subsequent demonstrations have been less intense, Kenyans continue to use social media platforms, particularly X, to express discontent over the rising cost of living.
Some citizens have even leveraged AI tools to create provocative and, at times, controversial content, including images that political figures labeled offensive. One such trend depicted President Ruto in a coffin, sparking widespread debate.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security Raymond Omollo addressed the growing concerns over digital misuse during Thursday’s meeting. While Kenya remains one of the few African countries with relatively unrestricted social media access, the recent surge in alleged abductions—more than 80 cases since June 2024—has fueled fears among online critics of the government.
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The government’s latest move to enhance oversight and require social media companies to have a physical presence underscores a shifting approach to managing the role of digital platforms in Kenya’s socio-political landscape.
