The government has initiated a new policy framework to regulate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies, as a new study warned that AI-generated misinformation could pose a significant threat to the credibility of Kenya’s 2027 General Election if left unchecked.
The findings, contained in the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) Governance Study 2025/2026, identified AI-generated misinformation as one of the fastest-growing threats to democratic processes, particularly with the rapid rise of deep fakes, manipulated images, cloned voices and fabricated online content.
According to the study, 77 percent of Kenyans rely on social media for political information, while 55 percent rely on radio or television for the same. WhatsApp stood out as the most potent vector, where misinformation is spread rapidly through friends or family networks.
NCCK Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Dennis Bosire, who spoke to Kenya News Agency, warned that unchecked AI-generated content has the potential to erode public trust in electoral institutions and inflame political tensions.
“When false content goes unchecked, it can fuel division and undermine trust. According to the NCCK study, the fact that many young people cannot reliably detect manipulated media suggests we could see a sharp decline in institutional credibility by 2027 if no action is taken,” Bosire explained.
He observed that existing laws like the Data Protection Act, 2019, and the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, 2018, offer important protections but are not fully equipped to address generative AI risks.
“To prepare for 2027, the government should fast-track the Artificial Intelligence Bill, 2026. A key priority will be setting up an AI Commissioner with the authority to oversee transparency measures, including labeling of AI content and human rights assessments,” he added.
As concerns over AI-generated misinformation continue to grow, the Government has initiated measures to establish a regulatory framework for the technology.
The Ministry of Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, through the State Department for ICT and the Digital Economy, has invited the public to submit comments on the Draft Kenya Artificial Intelligence and Other Emerging Technologies Policy before the August 4, 2026 deadline.
The draft policy seeks to establish a national framework for the governance, development, deployment, and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies.
It also aims to promote innovation, strengthen digital infrastructure and human capital, support sustainable development, and enhance Kenya’s economic resilience and strategic autonomy.
Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and the Digital Economy, William Kabogo said in a recent interview that Kenya has an opportunity to become a regional leader in responsible AI development by adopting a policy that balances innovation with safeguards for citizens.
“Artificial Intelligence and other emerging technologies are transforming economies, creating new industries, and redefining how governments serve their people. Kenya has an opportunity to lead this transformation by developing an AI ecosystem that is innovative, inclusive, secure, and anchored in our national values,” Kabogo added.
He called on Kenyans from all sectors to participate in the ongoing public consultation, saying the views collected will shape how the country governs AI, protects fundamental rights, develops digital talent and strengthens its competitiveness in the global digital economy.
The proposed policy is poised to provide a foundation for future AI legislation and regulatory frameworks as Kenya prepares for increased adoption of artificial intelligence in electoral processes ahead of the 2027 General Election.
By Rose Muthoni
