The National Intelligence Service (NIS) has been allocated a staggering Ksh 51.4 billion in the proposed 2025/26 national budget, with a significant portion, Ksh 46.3 billion, earmarked for a controversial initiative to monitor social media activity across the country.
According to official sources, the plan involves deploying automated tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to scan publicly available social media content for keywords and behavioral patterns linked to terrorism, radicalization, public unrest, and foreign interference. The automated surveillance will be supported by a team of human analysts who will evaluate flagged content to ensure proper context and reduce false positives.
The NIS argues that the initiative is vital for national security. Officials claim that real-time monitoring of online platforms can help identify and mitigate potential threats, counter misinformation campaigns, and assess public sentiment on sensitive national issues.
However, the proposal has sparked concerns among civil society groups and digital rights advocates. Critics warn of the potential for privacy violations, political misuse, and suppression of free speech if strict legal safeguards are not implemented. They also caution against overly broad surveillance that could unfairly target individuals based on political views or online expression.
To address these issues, the NIS is reportedly developing a framework that includes:
- Clear Legal Guidelines to define the scope, procedures, and limitations of the monitoring program.
- Data Privacy Safeguards, such as encryption, data anonymization, and restricted access protocols.
- Independent Oversight Mechanisms to ensure transparency and prevent abuse.
- Public Transparency, including regular updates and redress channels for citizens whose rights may be violated.
This initiative places Kenya among a growing number of governments investing heavily in digital surveillance to navigate the increasingly complex intersection of national security and online discourse. As Parliament prepares to debate the budget, the proposed social media monitoring program is expected to attract significant public scrutiny and demand for accountability.
Written By Rodney Mbua
