Aspects of cyber defence in Africa

Abstract

 When we think of Africa, cybersecurity is not the first word that comes to mind. But over the last 20 years, Africa's technological development has accelerated dynamically. In an increasing number of African countries, increasingly sophisticated and complex Information and Communications Technology systems are being built. The spread and use of the Internet is an indispensable prerequisite for access to global trade. The rapid growth of smartphones and mobile internet use has enabled many people to connect to the online world for the first time, opening up many new opportunities in trade, education and health services. Unfortunately, however, this development trend also has its drawbacks, such as the growing number of cyber-attacks, which, incidentally, underline the need for and relevance of my research. According to global surveys, the countries most at risk of cyber-attacks are in Africa. The importance of cyber security is therefore being recognised in an increasing number of African countries. In this article, I will discuss the cybersecurity policies of several African states and compare them on the basis of key professional indicators. I will also sketch a general picture of the current situation and some thoughts on future challenges.