NAIROBI, Kenya- In a historic first, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of Kenya has stepped out of the shadows, embracing a more open and engaging approach with the public.
On March 27, NIS Director-General Noordin Haji delivered a landmark public lecture at the National Intelligence Research University in Nairobi, shedding light on Kenya’s emerging security threats and the agency’s evolving role in governance and national stability.
This shift marks a new chapter for Kenya’s intelligence community, which has traditionally operated in secrecy.
By engaging openly on critical security issues, the NIS aims to build public trust, counter misinformation, and foster collaboration with various stakeholders, including policymakers, security experts, and the general public.
The public lecture was themed “Kenya’s evolving security landscape threats and opportunities.”
It was graced by various actors drawn from the media, civil society actors, the Law Society of Kenya, including the Chief of Defence Forces Gen Charles Kahariri and Attorney General Dorcas Odour.
In an era marked by shifting global dynamics and multifaceted security threats, intelligence agencies worldwide are embracing transparency to foster public trust and enhance operational effectiveness.
The U.S. National Security Agency (NSA), for instance, launched “No Such Podcast” in September 2024, aiming to demystify its operations and engage with the public on topics like cybersecurity and national security.
During his address, Haji emphasized the urgent need for a balanced approach to national security—one that safeguards democratic freedoms while mitigating threats such as misinformation, cyber warfare, and regional instability.
“While access to information remains the cornerstone of democratic governance, socio-economic stability, and interstate relations, the propagation of disinformation and misinformation continues to threaten these ideals,” Haji stated.
He particularly pointed to the role of artificial intelligence and digital platforms in amplifying disinformation, making security threats more complex.
Citing the June 2024 Gen Z protests, he highlighted how digital activism, while powerful, can also be weaponized to destabilize societies.
“The recent developments, particularly Gen Z protests, demonstrated the destabilizing effects of digital activism, which tested our political, economic, and security resilience,” he noted.
Haji warned that disinformation campaigns targeting Africa are on the rise, often orchestrated by foreign entities.
He stressed that Kenya must establish strong legal frameworks to protect its citizens from the dangers of manipulated narratives.
“I am not saying that national security trumps our democratic rights. We must find a balance between the two,” he asserted.
The intelligence chief called for proactive measures, including collaboration with digital platforms, policymakers, and media houses, to ensure that accurate information prevails over falsehoods.
“Building robust information ecosystems is not just aspirational; it is a pressing call to action,” Haji stated.
Historically, the NIS has maintained a low public profile, rarely engaging in national discourse outside of classified security briefings.
However, this lecture signals a shift toward a more open approach.
Moving forward, the agency plans to participate in governance discussions, policy formulation, and even direct public engagement.
“The NIS will engage people more. The NIS boss will be seen more,” an insider source revealed.
“They will be seen more actively involved with the issues of governance.”
This means the intelligence service will not only focus on traditional espionage and counterterrorism but will also contribute to national policy discussions on issues like education, land management, and economic planning.
The NIS, previously known as the Special Branch, was restructured in 1999 to transform it into a modern intelligence agency.
The 2012 National Intelligence Service Act further redefined its mandate, granting it a more civilian-centered operational framework while enhancing its intelligence-gathering capabilities.
Over the years, the agency has played a crucial role in safeguarding Kenya’s national security, particularly in counterterrorism efforts, combating transnational organized crime, and providing intelligence during high-stakes political events.
For instance, during Raila Odinga’s African Union Commission (AUC) campaign, the NIS provided strategic intelligence support.
Beyond security, the NIS has also developed key government programs focusing on education, land management, and national cohesion.
This multi-sectoral approach aligns with global trends where intelligence agencies contribute beyond security matters.
Following the success of this inaugural lecture, more public engagements by the NIS are expected.
These forums will provide a platform for dialogue between security agencies, policymakers, scholars, and the public on issues affecting Kenya’s national stability.
