Kenyans may soon need to verify their identity using their National ID cards before accessing social media platforms, if a new bill currently before Parliament becomes law.
The Kenya Information and Communications (Amendment) Bill, 2025, sponsored by Aldai MP Marianne Kitany, proposes mandatory age and ID verification for both new and existing users of platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and others. The move is part of broader efforts to protect children from harmful content online and to create a safer and more responsible digital environment.
“The society as a whole, including all participants in the internet ecosystem, is responsible for safeguarding the rights of children in their access and use of ICT products and services,” the bill reads in part.
If passed, Content Service Providers (CSPs) and Application Service Providers (ASPs) will be required to introduce robust age verification systems. In addition, mobile service providers will be tasked with ensuring that SIM cards are properly registered and linked to verified users.
The bill argues that current measures requiring users to enter their age are easily bypassed by entering false information or using pseudonyms, making them largely ineffective. The proposed legislation seeks to close that loophole by tying online access to national identification.
If implemented, Kenya will join a growing list of countries taking steps to restrict social media access for underage users and promote safer digital usage.
This development comes at a time when conversations around online safety, digital rights, and data protection are gaining momentum globally.
