Interior Ministry raises concern over hate speech and cyberbullying online
By Sharon Atieno, June 16, 2026The Interior Ministry has raised concern over the growing cases of hate speech, cyberbullying and other forms of online abuse in the country, warning that such conduct is increasingly becoming a threat to safe digital engagement.
In a statement shared on x account on Tuesday, June 16,2026 ,the Ministry further warned that misuse of online platforms, including hate speech, cyberbullying, threats and invasion of privacy, is punishable under Kenyan law.
“Harmful conduct such as hate speech, cyberbullying, threats online and invasion of people’s privacy violate our applicable laws, including the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act,” it added.
The Ministry noted that Kenya is now among the leading countries globally in social media consumption, with users spending more than five hours online daily compared to the global average of two hours.
“Kenya is among the leading countries in the use of social media. We are spending over 5 hours daily online against a global average of 2 hours,” the Ministry said.
Kenya among top global social media users
The Ministry noted that Kenya’s high digital engagement places it among the world’s most active social media populations.
Authorities cautioned that rising cases of online abuse will be dealt with under existing cybercrime laws.
Call for responsible digital engagement
The Ministry urged users to embrace responsible online behaviour to protect privacy, curb abuse, and promote safer digital spaces.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing cyber laws while encouraging responsible use of digital platforms.