Hello,
Victoria from Techpoint here,
Here’s what’s on the agenda today:
- Kenya’s Communications Authority mandates licensed PKI adoption by telcos by January 2026
- An AI assistant revolutionizing HR workflows
- Starlink’s South Africa licensing strategy highlights local empowerment efforts
Kenya’s Communications Authority mandates licensed PKI adoption by telcos by January 2026
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a significant directive requiring all telecom operators to exclusively utilize licensed digital certification services for systems classified as “critical information infrastructure” (CII). This move aims to strengthen cybersecurity measures and safeguard vital digital assets within the ICT sector.
According to Gazette Notice No. 1043, any infrastructure deemed CII must implement digital certificates, certification services, and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) provided solely by Electronic Certification Service Providers (E-CSPs) accredited and licensed by the CA. The authority has set a firm deadline: starting January 14, 2026, it will conduct audits to ensure compliance.
This initiative stems from a 2024 resolution by Kenya’s National Computer and Cybercrimes Coordination Committee (NC4), which emphasized the need for robust digital trust frameworks across industries. While Kenya already operates a National Public Key Infrastructure (NPKI) with the CA as the regulatory body, this directive extends those standards specifically to the telecommunications sector, mandating the use of trusted digital certificates.
Implementing this directive will present challenges for telecom providers, who must integrate licensed PKI services seamlessly, transition existing certificates without disruption, and maintain system integrity throughout the process. Non-compliance could result in fines, regulatory sanctions, or reputational damage.
In essence, Kenya’s telecom industry is being urged to tighten its digital security protocols and certificate management. The CA’s enforcement starting in 2026 leaves operators with a clear mandate: prepare thoroughly or face consequences.
An AI assistant revolutionizing HR workflows
Wale Ayandiran and Franklin Chieze initially set out to make artificial intelligence more accessible to everyday users. However, after numerous conversations with overwhelmed HR managers struggling to manage onboarding and internal communications, they identified a critical pain point: the complexity and inefficiency of employee onboarding.
This insight led to the creation of Onbuddy, an intelligent workplace assistant designed to alleviate the repetitive burdens faced by HR teams. Operating discreetly within platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams, Onbuddy automates onboarding processes, facilitates daily check-ins, and streamlines communication, reducing the need for constant manual follow-ups.
“Our goal isn’t to replace existing HR software,” explains Chieze. “Instead, we aim to complement them by providing an assistant that seamlessly interacts with all these systems.” Essentially, Onbuddy functions as a behind-the-scenes partner, helping teams stay organized while freeing HR professionals to focus on more strategic tasks.
Before Onbuddy, the founders developed Proteus AI, a versatile platform for building custom AI tools. However, its complexity deterred non-technical users, prompting a pivot toward a more user-friendly, human-centric solution tailored to HR’s daily challenges. This transition positioned Onbuddy as a vital tool for HR teams where automation is not just a convenience but a necessity.
Today, Onbuddy is quietly transforming employee onboarding and support. Curious about what sets it apart? Check out Sarah’s in-depth feature on Techpoint Africa.
Starlink’s South Africa licensing strategy highlights local empowerment efforts
Starlink’s efforts to secure an operating licence in South Africa have been ongoing for several months, with recent developments highlighting the company’s commitment to local economic empowerment. The satellite internet provider has incorporated a licensed Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) partner into its licensing strategy, reflecting the complex regulatory environment it faces.
Ryan Goodnight, Starlink’s Market Access Director, informed the Internet Service Providers Association (ISPA) that once South Africa’s regulator, ICASA, aligns its policies with B-BBEE legislation, Starlink will establish this B-BBEE entity and formally submit its licence application. The company has pledged substantial investments, including R500 million to provide free high-speed internet to 5,000 schools-benefiting approximately 2.4 million students-and nearly R2 billion to develop local infrastructure and collaborate with domestic ISPs.
Goodnight emphasized Starlink’s intention to operate as a fully compliant local ISP, adhering to tax obligations and regulatory frameworks. However, the company resists the current ICASA requirement to allocate 30% equity to black shareholders, advocating instead for “equity equivalent investment programmes” (EEIPs) that allow foreign firms to fulfill transformation mandates through financial investments rather than equity transfers.
Despite these efforts, ICASA and government officials have maintained a firm stance. The regulator has cautioned consumers against unauthorized Starlink services, confiscated equipment from unauthorized resellers, and is investigating potential illegal operations. Communications Minister Solly Malatsi has advocated for policy reforms to accommodate EEIPs as alternatives to mandatory equity stakes, signaling possible regulatory shifts amid ongoing debate.
Starlink currently navigates a delicate balance-seeking market entry while contending with South Africa’s transformation laws, regulatory uncertainties, and opposition from established players. The critical question remains whether ICASA and policymakers will adapt sufficiently to facilitate Starlink’s entry or uphold existing barriers.
In case you missed it
What I’m watching
- Marriage Explained in 8 Minutes
- Erick Wilberding’s tool to enhance critical thinking skills
Opportunities
- Join Africa’s leading female founders, investors, and innovators at AWFS 2025. Register here.
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- Standard Bank is looking for a Data Engineer. Apply here.
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Wishing you a fantastic Thursday!
Victoria Fakiya for Techpoint Africa