Kabogo takes charge of ICT docket, sets tone on right use of social media
The newly appointed Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Information, Communication, and Digital Economy William Kabogo has called on Kenyans to approach social media more responsibly especially with increasing criticism of President William Ruto’s government.
While speaking in Nairobi on Saturday after receiving a Handover from the prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, who had been the acting ICT minister, Kabogo stressed on ways to enhance sensitization of data privacy and rights of those in the digital sector.
Internet Etiquette
Kabogo said this is not in any way to curb freedom of speech but in order for people to act right on what they post online. He used an example of a recent deepfake video showing President Ruto in a coffin, while aiding from a recent AI technology trend.
“What maybe considered hilarious at 20 may have dreadful repercussions at a different age,” Kabogo noted, saying people needed to be held responsible for the decisions they take on the web.
Combating Misinformation
Kabogo further said that the ministry would defend laws prohibiting the abuse of technology as the freedom of speech was encouraged.
Dutch Royal Visit Unaffected
Speaking at his Vihiga backyard, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi also dismissed some of the concerns on the State visit, by the Dutch Royals, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima that is due in March 18th. Nevertheless, in relation to the trending hashtag #CancelStateVisit, Mudavadi came out to debunk information that the campaign would change diplomatic relations.
“We stand assured that this fellowship with the Netherlands is cordial,” Mudavadi said. “They do not reign state relations or invitations via official channels are issued over social media.
The president’s plan is aimed at improving international relations.
The appearance of the current Dutch royal couple in Kenya shows that the two countries have very good relations and trade with the Netherlands, investment and cooperation. Kabogo and Mudavadi stressed the fact that the constructive topical participation is needed in social media sites to help Kenya progress and gain a better worldwide image.
This change of guard symbolizes a new direction for the ICT docket managed by Kabogo with emphasis on the tension between Liberty of speech and being responsible citizens in the digital age.