Kenya launches Public Key Infrastructure Implementation

 

20 May 2013

This week Kenya kicked off the process of setting up a National Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). Many may ask what PKI is, it a system of digital certificates, certificate authorities and other registration authorities that verify and authenticate the validity of each party involved in an electronic transaction. This will create a secure online transaction environment and set up an online identity & verification system. A National PKI will enable and foster the development of various applications incorporating digital signatures and a trusted environment over open networks.

Samsung Data Services, a global ICT service provider from Korea has been awarded the contract by the Kenyan Government to implement the National PKI. Not only has Samsung SDS implemented Korea’s PKI, but they have also implemented the same for the USA, Germany, Malaysia and Japan. With a population of 50 million citizens, Korea currently has 5 accredited Certificate Authorities (Certificate Service Providers) who have jointly issued over 28 million digital certificates.

Korea’s PKI has underpinned the implementation of e-Government systems and services. These include citizen oriented services such as national ID system, taxation; Spatial services such as land information system, underground facility management (gas, water, sewers, oil, electricity), property registration and urban planning among others.

Kenya’s National Public Kenya Infrastructure implementation is expected to be complete by November 2013.

 

Source: 140friday