Home Uncategorized From Gen Z Protests to AI Deepfakes: Why Kenya’s Digital Battlefield Is...

From Gen Z Protests to AI Deepfakes: Why Kenya’s Digital Battlefield Is Heating Up

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The Kenyan government has raised alarm over escalating cyber activities aimed at discrediting its initiatives, following a deluge of over 300 emails sent by Kenyans to the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The emails reportedly requested the cancellation of King Willem-Alexander’s planned visit to Kenya, citing concerns over human rights violations.

In a statement issued on Thursday, January 16, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs attributed the surge in activity to organized misinformation campaigns by a small group of social media influencers.

The Ministry described the campaigns as involving artificial intelligence (AI)-generated deepfakes, fabricated narratives, and coordinated automated emails targeting Kenya’s international relations.

“These activities, initially sparked by genuine protests from Gen Zs, have evolved into organized cyberattacks. Their aim is to delegitimize government initiatives, discourage high-level visits, and intimidate members of the international community,” Musalia Mudavadi, the Cabinet Secretary (CS) of the said ministry noted.

To counter these challenges, the government announced plans to introduce a Technology Responsibility Charter promoting ethical digital practices and accountability.

Measures also include expanding civic engagement through a Multistakeholder Forum on Open Government, and developing a State of Openness Report with public input to address discontent over governance issues.

The government acknowledged public frustrations that fueled the protests and cyber campaigns, citing the withdrawal of the contentious Finance Bill 2024 and efforts to create a more inclusive administration as steps toward resolving domestic concerns.

Meanwhile, the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the receipt of emails from Kenyans expressing alarm over human rights violations, including enforced disappearances and abductions of government critics.

Despite the concerns, the Dutch government stated that King Willem-Alexander’s visit will proceed, viewing it as a chance to engage directly with Kenyan authorities on issues such as human rights.

Human rights activists in Kenya have been vocal since the Gen Z protests in July 2024, which were met with alleged government crackdowns.

The recent abductions of social media influencers, including Kibet Bull and Billi Mwangi, have further fueled public outrage.

Although the government has promised investigations, the lack of clarity surrounding these incidents continues to raise questions.

President William Ruto also recently vowed to end the wave of abductions amidst mounting domestic and international pressure.

The Kenyan Ministry reassured diplomatic missions and partners of its commitment to addressing shared risks and fostering constructive dialogue while emphasizing its adherence to constitutional and international obligations.

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