The National Cybersecurity Policies and Their Mitigation of Kenya’s National Security Risks.
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Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences
Abstract
Cyberspace has become integral to modern societies, driving economic growth, social connectivity, and technological advancement. However, the rapid expansion of digital technologies has also brought forth significant cybersecurity challenges, particularly in developing countries like Kenya posing a threat to national security. Guided by three main objectives, this study sought to firstly assess the current state of cybersecurity infrastructure, policies, and regulations governing the use of cyberspace in Kenya; secondly, to analyze the relationship between cybersecurity policies and the emergence of various cyber threats and vulnerabilities in Kenya’s cyberspace; and thirdly, to explore potential recommendations for enhancing cybersecurity measures and policies to mitigate cyber threats and safeguard national security within Kenya’s digital environment. Institutional Theory underpinned the study. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this study utilized qualitative and quantitative research designs to achieve its objectives. The qualitative phase involved in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with key stakeholders in the cybersecurity domain, while the quantitative phase employed structured questionnaires administered to a representative sample of the population. Sample selection was conducted using stratified random sampling techniques, ensuring a diverse and comprehensive representation of cybersecurity stakeholders in Kenya. Data collection procedures included interviews, surveys, and document analysis, with data analyzed using both descriptive statistical methods. By comprehensively examining the state of cybersecurity in Kenya’s cyberspace, this study aimed to provide insights into the challenges, opportunities, and potential strategies for enhancing cybersecurity resilience. The data collected from the questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informants focused on government agencies, private sector companies, cyber security professionals as well as academic institutions. Furthermore, document analysis was applied to review cybersecurity reports and policy documents in Kenya. The data is presented through frequency tables and comprehensive discussions on key themes in the data collected and the interpretation of the data collected. In August, the researcher issued questionnaires to the respondents and interviewed 10 key informants. Of 218 questionnaires issued to respondents, 154 were valid and used for analysis. Therefore, the response rate was 70.6 percent. According to Babbie (2010), a 50 percent response rate is adequate, 60 percent is good, and above 70 percent is sufficient to conduct a comprehensive and adequate analysis leading to a good report. Thus, based on this contention, the response rate of this study is sufficient to give adequate information on cyberspace in Kenya and its implications for national security. The findings of this research have implications for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers, offering valuable recommendations for strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure, policies, and practices in Kenya. Addressing cybersecurity concerns is essential for fostering a secure and sustainable digital environment that promotes economic growth, protects personal privacy, and safeguards national security.
Description
MASTERS OF ARTS in Diplomacy, Development, and International Security
Keywords
Cyberspace, economic growth, social connectivity, technological advancement, cybersecurity challenges
Citation
Olang’, A. (2024). The National Cybersecurity Policies and Their Mitigation of Kenya’s National Security Risks. Daystar University, School of Arts and Social Sciences.