In a major development, Safaricom has announced a 90% reduction in the number of cybersecurity incidents affecting its enterprise customers. This remarkable improvement is attributed to the introduction of advanced security tools through its Managed Security Operations Centre (MSOC). The company shared this achievement at its Cybersecurity Summit 2025, emphasizing its role in combating an increasingly complex cyber threat landscape.
Advanced Security Measures Lead to Major Drop in Cyberattacks
The MSOC, which operates 24/7, has been central in achieving this cyberattack reduction. It provides real-time threat detection and response for Safaricom’s enterprise clients, helping prevent potential breaches before they escalate. According to Safaricom’s Chief Corporate Security Officer, Nicholas Mulila, this marks a significant shift from traditional reactive cybersecurity models to a more proactive, “secure by design” approach.
Mulila stressed that the security landscape has evolved, with “zero-trust” architectures now being the baseline for ensuring business continuity. As cyber threats continue to grow in sophistication, MSOC plays a pivotal role in safeguarding critical enterprise operations.
Kenya Faces Soaring Cyber Threats
Kenya’s cybersecurity challenges were underscored at the summit, with the Communications Authority revealing that the country experienced 4.6 billion cyber threats in just the second quarter of 2025. The staggering figure highlights the urgent need for comprehensive cybersecurity strategies to protect both private and public sectors.
Government and Industry Collaboration to Combat Threats
The Cybersecurity Summit also featured key discussions on the future of cyber defense. John Tanui, Principal Secretary for the State Department for ICT and the Digital Economy, stressed the shift in national cybersecurity strategy. He emphasized that the focus has moved from simply reacting to threats to embedding security from the outset of product development, service offerings, and policy-making.
Tanui also highlighted the increasing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in the fight against cybercrime. These technologies are becoming essential in identifying and mitigating new threats, enhancing the resilience of digital infrastructure.
The Growing Need for Cybersecurity in Africa
Safaricom’s efforts are part of a broader effort to build a more secure digital environment in Kenya and across Africa. As cyber attacks become more sophisticated, the need for businesses and governments to prioritize cybersecurity has never been greater. The collaboration between industry stakeholders and government bodies remains crucial in safeguarding digital growth and innovation.
