The CS for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, Kithure Kindiki has suspended Worldcoin activities in the country following concerns over their legality and authenticity. In addition, a statement released by the ministry has announced investigations and inquiries into recent Worldcoin activities in Kenya.
In the statement released today, the Government has raised concerns over Worldcoin’s ongoing verification process through the collection of iris data.
This comes after a discovery that Worldcoin is registered as a data controller in Kenya under the Kenya Data Protection law.
Inquiries and investigations into the company’s verification process have commenced by relevant security, financial services and data protection agencies. The investigation seeks to establish the authenticity and legality of the aforementioned activities, and the safety and protection of the data being collected. In addition, the Government seeks to establish how Worldcoin intends to use the data.
The statement notes the importance of having assurances of public safety and integrity of the financial transactions involving such a large number of citizens be satisfactorily provided upfront.
The Government has thus suspended Worldcoin’s activities in the country until relevant public agencies certify the absence of any risks to the general public.
Ministry of Interior and National Administration, August 2, 2023Accordingly, the Government has SUSPENDED forthwith, activities of “WORLD COIN” and any other entity that may be similarly engaging the people of Kenya until relevant public agencies certify the absence of risks to the general public
The ministry has added that appropriate action will be taken on any entity that further engages or is connected with Worldcoin’s registration. The statement adds, “Appropriate action will be taken on any natural or juristic person who furthers, aids, abets, or otherwise engages in or is connected with the activities afore described.”