Millions Kenyans Could Face in Fines for AI Misuse Under New Bill

Sometimes the use of advanced technology can cross the line from innovation into dangerous deception.

Rise of deepfakes and manipulated audio have seen Kenyan authorities taking decisive steps to curb the proliferation of misleading digital content.

At the heart of this regulatory shift is the Artificial Intelligence Bill, 2026, which introduces stringent financial and criminal penalties for those who abuse artificial intelligence systems.

Heavy Penalties for Digital Deception

Under the proposed legislation sponsored by nominated Senator Karen Nyamu, individuals or organizations caught producing or distributing misleading and harmful AI-generated content will face severe consequences.

The Bill aims to protect the public from the erosion of trust caused by manipulated videos and voices. Any person found guilty of using these tools to spread misinformation faces a staggering fine of up to Sh5 million, a prison term, or both.

The scope of this liability extends significantly to the unauthorized use of an individual’s identity. The Bill establishes that generating or distributing AI material using another person’s image, voice, or likeness without explicit permission constitutes a criminal offence.

Those convicted under this section face the same hefty penalty of Sh5 million or a two-year prison sentence. Furthermore, technology providers are now mandated to secure clear consent before deploying tools that alter personal likenesses, and all AI-generated content must be transparently labeled to prevent public confusion.

Oversight and Accountability

To enforce these regulations, the Bill proposes the creation of the office of the Artificial Intelligence Commissioner. This authority will possess the power to investigate complaints, issue enforcement directives, and oversee a four-tier risk classification system for AI technologies.

Government institutions and private companies alike will be held to these rigorous standards.

Importantly, the legislation ensures that directors or senior officers cannot simply hide behind corporate structures; they may be held personally responsible if they are aware of violations within their organizations and fail to act.

Through these measures, Kenya hopes to foster a safer digital landscape where innovation flourishes without compromising the truth.