NAIROBI, Kenya-Kenya has launched a national counter-terrorism hotline and online reporting portal that will allow members of the public to report suspicious activities anonymously.
The platform was developed by Kenya’s Counter Terrorism Bureau with support from the United Kingdom and United States governments.
It is intended to strengthen efforts to detect and disrupt threats from al-Shabaab and other violent extremist groups by improving information-sharing between communities and security agencies.
The system includes a toll-free telephone hotline, an anonymous online portal and a case-management platform through which security officers can receive, assess and prioritise reports.
Officials said the platform was supported by infrastructure designed to protect the information and identities of people submitting reports.
The initiative is expected to support intelligence-led investigations, early interventions and improved coordination among Kenya’s security institutions.
Rewards for credible tips
The United States Africa Command will administer reward payments for credible information that advances counter-terrorism objectives or strengthens measures aimed at protecting security forces.
US Africa Command will also support public awareness and advertising campaigns across Kenya to inform citizens about the reporting system.
Details about the value of the rewards and the conditions for receiving payments were not disclosed during the launch.
Acting US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Carla Benini said the platform would give Kenyans a direct channel through which they could help prevent terrorist attacks.
“Terrorist groups like al-Shabaab thrive on silence. This platform breaks it by giving every Kenyan a direct channel to help stop an attack,” Benini said.
“The United States stands firmly with Kenya in giving communities the power to fight back, because a safer Kenya is a safer region and a safer world.”
UK Deputy High Commissioner Ed Barnett said the United Kingdom was supporting a Kenyan-owned capability that would provide the public with a clear route for sharing terrorism-related concerns.
“As a key security partner in East Africa, Kenya continues to play a vital role in our shared efforts to prevent and respond to terrorist threats,” Barnett said.
He said the project demonstrated how international partnerships could deliver sustainable capabilities that strengthened public security.
CTB to manage the platform
Despite receiving technical and operational support from the UK and US governments, the platform will be fully owned, managed and operated by Kenya’s Counter Terrorism Bureau.
Officials said the arrangement would ensure national ownership, sustainability and alignment with Kenya’s security priorities.
Information submitted through the portal will be assessed and, where necessary, shared with relevant security agencies to support investigations and counter-terrorism operations.
Authorities encouraged Kenyans to report suspicious activities and provide information that could help security agencies protect lives and communities.
The official statement announcing the launch did not provide the toll-free number or address of the online portal.
