The government, through the Communication Authority of Kenya (CAK), has announced plans to begin monitoring phone calls and Airbnb activities across the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 5, senior government advisor Moses Kuria explained that this initiative is aimed at enhancing the tracking of criminal activities, including gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide, by monitoring phone transactions and conversations.
According to Kuria, the move is designed to help authorities identify and apprehend criminals involved in serious offenses, particularly those linked to violence against women and femicides.
He stressed that the government is committed to using technology and intelligence to combat these crimes more effectively.
Kuria’s proposal has garnered support from Government Deputy Spokesperson Mwanaisha Chidzuga, who emphasized that regulating Airbnbs will help eliminate the negative reputation some have gained due to misuse.
Chidzuga stated that many Airbnbs are legitimate businesses, and the regulation will ensure that criminal activities are curtailed while maintaining a fair business environment for property owners.
“This regulation will be very helpful. We should not blame the Airbnbs as they are legitimate businesses.
It’s the criminals who misuse these platforms that need to be dealt with,” Chidzuga said.
The Deputy Spokesperson also highlighted the alarming rise in GBV and femicide cases across the country, urging citizens to actively participate in the upcoming 16 Days of Activism Against GBV, starting November 15.
“Kenyans cannot continue to live in fear,” she said, calling for collective efforts to curb the growing menace.
Additionally, Chidzuga encouraged parents to monitor their children’s online activity to safeguard them from online threats.
“The dangers often begin on social media. Parents must play a role in ensuring their children are protected from strangers and harmful online influences,” she urged.
In related developments, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has issued new directives for mobile device importers, requiring them to comply with stricter customs procedures.
KRA has also mandated that all travelers entering Kenya declare the IMEI numbers of their mobile devices at the port of entry, as part of efforts to increase accountability in the mobile phone importation process.
Furthermore, device manufacturers and assemblers are now required to register on the Customs portal and report detailed information about their products, including IMEI numbers.
