The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana has taken a significant step towards enhancing the country’s cybersecurity ecosystem by establishing a Cybersecurity Industry Forum.
This move comes as part of efforts to foster collaboration among various stakeholders in the cybersecurity sector, aiming to develop a robust and unified approach to addressing cybersecurity challenges. The proposed launch date for the Cybersecurity Industry Forum is October this year, aligning with National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM). This timing underscores the CSA’s commitment to promoting cybersecurity awareness and education across Ghana.
Speaking during the meeting, the Director-General of the CSA, Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako stated, “Industry plays a crucial role in shaping policy and regulatory activities. The Forum has the potential to support industry standards.”
Dr. Antwi-Boasiako also discussed the ongoing licensing and accreditation of cybersecurity service providers, establishments, and professionals. This process aims to assure international best practices and provide recognition to industry professionals in Ghana, likely enhancing the membership and influence of the Forum.
At the heart of this initiative is a nine-member facilitating committee, chaired by Dr. Kenneth Edem Ashigbey, CEO of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications.
This committee comprises representatives from key industry bodies, including the Ghana Association of Banks (GAB), the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2), the Institute of ICT Professionals Ghana (IIPGH), and the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).
Additionally, the committee includes three industry representatives from the CSA’s governing board. This diverse representation ensures a comprehensive perspective across different sectors of the cybersecurity industry.
During a preliminary consultative meeting held in Accra, the committee was tasked with brainstorming the strategic roadmap for the development of the Industry Forum.
This initiative is in response to Section 81(1) of the Cybersecurity Act, which mandates the establishment of an Industry Forum. This platform aims to periodically bring the industry together to discuss matters of common interest, ensuring cohesive and unified growth in the cybersecurity sector.
Industry participants at the meeting expressed their commitment to the Forum, optimistic about its potential to drive industry development and unify various stakeholders. Through the Joint Cybersecurity Committee (JCC) secretariat, the CSA is actively working on the operationalization of the Forum, signaling a collaborative effort to enhance industry cohesion and standards.
Impact on Ghana’s Cybersecurity Landscape
This initiative by the CSA highlighted its dedication to fostering a collaborative regulatory environment. By bringing together key industry players, the CSA aims to elevate Ghana’s cybersecurity landscape, ensuring robust protection against cyber threats and fostering a secure digital environment for businesses and individuals alike.
The establishment of the Cybersecurity Industry Forum is expected to have several positive impacts. The forum will provide a platform for industry stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and address common challenges, leading to more cohesive and effective cybersecurity strategies.
Moreover, with input from various industry bodies, the Forum will help establish and enforce cybersecurity standards that align with international best practices, improving the overall quality of cybersecurity measures in Ghana.
Licensing and accreditation processes will ensure that professionals and service providers in the industry are recognized for their expertise, fostering trust and reliability in cybersecurity services.
The establishment of the Cybersecurity Industry Forum marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s cybersecurity journey, reflecting the CSA’s commitment to creating a collaborative regulatory environment.
By bringing together key players from various sectors, the initiative aims to elevate Ghana’s cybersecurity landscape through enhanced industry cooperation and dialogue. As the Forum prepares for its launch, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the opportunities it will bring to strengthen the cybersecurity ecosystem and safeguard the digital interests of Ghana.
