By Samuel Ouma
Kenya on Wednesday halted WorldCoin’s operations in the country, citing safety concerns.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki expressed alarm over the organization's actions, which included the acquisition of eyeball or iris data to register residents.
He stated that WorldCoin's operations would be suspended until public safety and the integrity of financial transactions involving such a large number of people are ensured.
He stated that the appropriate agencies are looking into the legitimacy and legality of such actions, the safety and protection of the data being gathered and how the data would be utilized.
"Relevant security, financial services and data protection agencies have commenced inquiries and investigations to establish the authenticity and legality of the aforesaid activities, the safety and protection of the data being harvested, and how the harvesters intend to use the data," said Kindiki.
He stated that anyone who defies the order and continues registering individuals would face the wrath of the law.
“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 until the government deems WorldCoin is safe,” he added.
Worldcoin is owned by American Artificial Intelligence (AI), and so far, 350,000 Kenyans have signed up.
Kenyans have been lining up for the few weeks to sign up for the project, which grants users 25 free tokens, known as WLD, worth Ksh.7786 ($55).