Kenyan Government Directs Social Media Companies to Open Local Offices

The Kenyan government has announced a new directive requiring all social media companies operating in the country to establish a physical presence within its borders. This directive was issued by Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo during a meeting with telecommunications companies and social media platform representatives on January 16, 2025. 

PS Omollo emphasized that the increasing misuse of social media, including harassment, hate speech, and incitement to violence, necessitates immediate and decisive measures. He stated, "All social media organisations operating in the country must establish a physical presence within our jurisdiction." 

Also Read:

• From 2022 Challenges to a Promising 2027 Campaign in Machakos

• Kenyan Cop Arrested for Sharing Kasongo Cartoons and Joining Protestors

This move aligns with concerns raised by President William Ruto, who has criticized the misuse of social media, particularly the circulation of images depicting government officials in a negative light. The government asserts that having social media companies physically present in Kenya will ensure responsibility and accountability in the face of rising disinformation and online abuse. 

The directive is expected to impact major social media platforms, including Meta's Facebook and Instagram, Elon Musk's X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and others. These companies will now be required to establish offices in Kenya to comply with the new regulations. 

This development is part of a broader effort by the Kenyan government to regulate digital platforms and ensure they contribute positively to the country's socio-economic landscape. It also reflects a growing trend among nations to hold social media companies accountable for content disseminated within their jurisdictions.