Kenyans can now play a clear role in the fight against counter-terrorism thanks to a hotline and online reporting portal that will provide the public with secure and anonymous channels to report suspicious activity and information relating to terrorism.

Speaking at the launch of the United States and United Kingdom backed platform on Friday, September 18, Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, representing President William Ruto, said the move positions ordinary citizens as the first line of defence in counter-terrorism reporting, empowering them to act directly from within their own communities.

In remarks delivered on his behalf by the Director Personnel, Ms. Rosemary Kuraru, Director of Criminal Investigations, Mr. Mohamed Amin, said the system will boost Kenya’s counter-terrorism architecture and deepening collaboration between security agencies and the public.

Mr. Amin noted that the initiative reflects an intelligence-led approach, stressing that timely information can help prevent incidents before they occur.

“Timely information can make the difference between preventing an incident and responding to one after it has occurred. Even information that may appear insignificant can, when combined with other intelligence, help identify a wider threat,” Amin said.

Beyond the toll-free hotline, which is 0800 900 900, the platform features an anonymous online reporting portal and a case management system designed to receive, assess and prioritise reports, underpinned by secure infrastructure, enabling the public to report suspected terrorist activities.

The Director of the Counter Terrorism Bureau (CTB), Mr. Saidi Kiprotich, AIG, urged the public to exercise responsibility in using the hotline, cautioning against malicious allegations or the targeting of individuals on the basis of identity.

Kiprotich also encouraged Kenyans to raise concerns through proper channels rather than confronting suspects directly.

UK Deputy High Commissioner Mr. Ed Barnett said the UK was proud to support this Kenyan-owned capability alongside its American partners, noting that the initiative demonstrates how strong international partnerships can deliver practical and sustainable security solutions.

The platform will be fully owned, managed and operated by the CTB as a national security capability, with the U.S. Embassy’s Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, Ms. Carla Benini saying it gives every Kenyan a direct channel to help stop an attack.

It comes against the backdrop of an evolving threat landscape, with terror groups increasingly exploiting technology, social media and transnational networks.