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In a move to strengthen cybersecurity and digital sovereignty, Kenya has announced that all systems designated as critical information infrastructure must adopt and exclusively use .KE domain names.
The directive, issued by the National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee (NC4) on March 14, 2024, aims to enhance the security and reliability of Kenya’s digital landscape.
Mandatory .KE Domains
All critical information infrastructure systems in Kenya are now required to use only .KE domain names.
Security Emphasis
The directive also mandates that the security and reliability of these .KE domain names must be safeguarded.
Regulatory Oversight
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has licensed the Kenya Network Information Centre (KeNIC) to manage and administer the .KE country code top-level domain (ccTLD).
Implementation
Organizations can find a list of licensed .KE Registrars on KeNIC’s website at kenic
The move is part of Kenya’s broader strategy to strengthen its cybersecurity posture and assert control over its digital assets. By mandating the use of .KE domains for critical infrastructure, the government aims to create a more secure and locally controlled online environment for essential services and systems.
The directive aligns with global trends of countries seeking to localize their critical digital infrastructure to improve security and reduce dependence on foreign-controlled systems.
It also reinforces the role of KeNIC as a crucial player in Kenya’s digital ecosystem.
Organizations operating critical information infrastructure in Kenya will need to review their current domain names and make necessary changes to comply with this new requirement.
This transition may involve significant effort and coordination across various sectors.
As nation continues to develop its digital economy, such measures are likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the country’s cybersecurity landscape and online identity.
