KENET Holds its inaugural In-Person ICANN Grant Funded Cybersecurity Resilience Training
In November 2025, KENET launched the first in a series of regional cybersecurity trainings in Nairobi, supported by the ICANN Grant Program. The five-day workshop that was held from November 3rd- 7th, brought together 47 participants from 27 member institutions. These included universities, TVETs, teaching hospitals, and capacity-building institutions affiliated with education and research across the Nairobi region. Participants were nominated by the heads of ICT at their respective institutions. Once nominated, each attendee registered for one of the two practical learning tracks based on their role and interests. Track 1 focused on Securing Institutional Domains, Emails and Websites and Identity & Trust Services, while Track 2 covered Securing Campus/Institutional Networks and IT Assets.
Before the core modules began, all participants attended a hands-on bootcamp to refresh their skills in fundamental Linux and networking commands, ensuring everyone was ready to engage fully with the advanced material. The Nairobi session marked the first phase of a two-year project titled “Strengthening Kenya's Cybersecurity Posture.” The project aims to build capacity across five regions in Kenya, with a goal of training at least 500 ICT staff in person and 1,000 more online. By equipping at least two staff members from each institution through the Train the Trainer (ToT) model, KENET aims to ensure that cybersecurity knowledge is sustained within each organization.
Group Photo - ICANN Grant Funded Cybersecurity Resilience Training - Nairobi Cohort
Participants found the training both relevant and practical. Anthony Musyimi from Africa International University described the course as an eye-opener that highlighted many previously unknown aspects of cybersecurity. Victor Koskei from Boma International Hospitality College added:
“This was an excellent learning experience. KENET has demonstrated the expertise to organize impactful training and build the capacity of member institutions, now and in the future. We look forward to more such engagements.”
KENET continues to support Kenya’s education and research sector by helping institutions safeguard their digital infrastructure through practical, skills-based training. The Nairobi workshop marked the beginning of this wider regional effort, with upcoming training cohorts scheduled for the Western, Central & Eastern, Nyanza, and Coast regions throughout 2026.