Vision: Safe and trusted cyberspace for the people of Kenya MESSAGE JOE MUCHERU, E.G.H. The Kenyan government recognizes ICT sector as a key contributor and enabler in attainment of the Vision 2030 to transform Kenya into a digital economy. Guided by key policy documents including the Digital Economy Blueprint, National ICT Policy and National Digital Masterplan, the ICT sector has continued to be a key contributor to the GDP and source of national economic growth. The ICT sector has been instrumental in providing digital tools and innovations necessary to implement the development agenda including the Big Four Agenda as well as building resilience against the effects of economic shocks such as the Covid-19 Pandemic. To build a robust ICT ecosystem, the Kenyan government in collaboration with businesses is investing in the key pillars for digital economy: Digital Infrastructure; Digital Government services; Digital Business; Digital Skills; Digital Innovations as well as enhancing the policy, legal and regulatory framework. This has seen Kenya register significant progress in adoption of ICT in the delivery of services on digital platforms by government and businesses. The number of e-services for government and businesses has increased making them accessible, convenient and affordable to Kenyan citizens. Similarly, we have enhanced digital connectivity linking the entire government, counties, sub-counties, hospitals, schools and other public service organizations across the Republic of Kenya. Further, we have established more local data centres to ensure strategic data is localized and stored with minimal risk and at low cost. With increased capacity and capability, Kenya has ultimately increased the levels of mobile, Internet penetration and digital innovations in the country. Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of ICT, Innovation and Youth Affairs Despite these notable achievements, Kenya faces increased cybersecurity challenges and risks that threaten the national security and our digital transformation agenda. With increased digital connectedness, Kenya is now more prone to cyber-criminal activities from any part of the world. Our expanded digitalization programmes coupled with investment in digital and data infrastructure present new challenges that require renewed efforts to enhance Kenya’s capacity and capability to support the growth of digital economy. Therefore, the Ministry of ICT, Innovation and Youth Affairs and in collaboration with other stakeholders will continue to prioritize formulation and review of policies, laws and regulations and implementation of key initiatives aimed at building a safe and secure cyberspace as envisioned by this National Cybersecurity Strategy. Joe Mucheru, E.G.H. Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of ICT, Innovation and Youth Affairs v