A Look at KQ’s Cybersecurity with Anastasia Chege

Anastasia Chege has built a career at the intersection of technology, security, and leadership. Her professional journey combines deep technical expertise in areas such as endpoint security, encryption, and incident response with governance, risk, and compliance leadership. 

Since joining Kenya Airways as the Head of Technology Risk and Security, Anastasia has focused on building a resilient cybersecurity and risk culture within the airline. Aviation is a critical sector for safety and national infrastructure, and contributing to KQ’s digital trust and security posture has been incredibly fulfilling. She works closely with teams across the business to embed cybersecurity and risk into the company’s digital transformation journey, strengthen detection and response capabilities, and enhance policies and staff training. 

What Anastasia enjoys most about her role is the constant challenge it presents. Every day is different, from solving complex problems and deflecting cyber threats to educating users and implementing new tools. Knowing that her work directly protects people and systems while building trust in a company as critical to Kenya and the region as KQ keeps her motivated. She also finds satisfaction in building a resilient team and mentoring them in cybersecurity skills, watching them grow and thrive in their roles. 

Internally, she is leading efforts to empower staff as the first line of defense while enhancing the Security Operations Centre for improved real-time threat visibility and response. Her team has also begun generating revenue through cybersecurity services for smaller aviation carriers across Africa, with plans to roll out additional defense capabilities to strengthen data protection and overall resilience. 

Outside work, Anastasia enjoys spending time in nature, whether on a quiet farm or simply taking a break to breathe fresh air away from screens. She also values time with her family and pets, which helps her recharge and maintain balance in a demanding role. 

While many know her as a leader, few realize that she remains deeply technical at heart. Anastasia still finds excitement in diving into encryption, packet captures, threat hunts, or setting up cybersecurity tools. Her colleagues often joke that when a complex, unusual cyber issue arises, it will likely land on her desk with a sticky note saying, “We believe in you,” trusting her to solve it. Her blend of technical expertise, leadership, and mentorship exemplifies the skill and dedication required to protect KQ’s digital operations in an increasingly connected world.