Ghana is set to roll out a revamped National Cybersecurity Strategy in October, following its approval by the Cabinet. This initiative aims to strengthen the country’s defenses against the growing threat of cybercrime, solidifying its position as one of Africa’s leaders in cybersecurity. According to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), Ghana was ranked third in Africa for its commitment to combating cyber threats in 2020.
The National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy focuses on five key objectives: creating a resilient digital ecosystem, securing critical digital infrastructure, and enhancing national capacity by improving the skills of cybersecurity professionals. Additional goals include preventing and addressing cybercrime through effective measures and strengthening regional and global cooperation to tackle cyber threats.
Kwame Baah-Acheamfour, Director of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, spoke on behalf of Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, emphasizing the importance of Ghana’s participation in cyber drills such as the Regional Cyber Drill. These exercises help refine the country’s incident response capabilities and coordination efforts.
Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority (CSA), warned of the evolving nature of cyber threats, referencing concerning data from the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) and Cybersecurity Ventures. He noted that these threats not only pose financial risks but also jeopardize national security and individual privacy.
Despite these challenges, Ghana has made significant strides in bolstering its cybersecurity framework. In collaboration with the ITU, Ghana established its National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-GH) in 2014, which later merged with the Cyber Security Authority in 2017.
Dr. Antwi-Boasiako highlighted key achievements of the CSA, including the licensing of Cybersecurity Service Providers (CSPs) and the accreditation of Cybersecurity Establishments (CEs) and Professionals (CPs) since March 2023. By September 2024, the CSA had registered 1,433 cybersecurity professionals, 64 cybersecurity establishments, and 246 service providers, positioning Ghana as a leader in regulatory compliance under the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038).
These efforts reflect Ghana’s commitment to protecting its rapidly developing digital landscape and safeguarding citizens from the increasing threat of cybercrime. As cyber threats continue to evolve globally, Ghana’s proactive approach will be essential in maintaining security and resilience.
Enrique Hernandez Gonzalez, Assistant Director of Cybercrime Operations at Interpol’s Cybercrime Directorate, emphasized the focus of the upcoming cyber drill on ransomware and digital extortion, which are often used by cybercriminals. The drill will equip participants with crucial skills to counter these threats, further strengthening the country’s cybersecurity infrastructure.
SOURCE: https://dew360.net
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