Ghana has marked a significant milestone in its digital journey by launching the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (NCPS) during the 2024 National Cybersecurity Awareness Month in Accra. The initiative aims to combat the growing cybersecurity threats associated with the country’s rapid digital transformation. Communications and Digitalisation Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful emphasized that the revised policy serves as a strategic response to both existing and anticipated cyber threats, ensuring the protection of Ghana’s digital infrastructure and the achievements made in the digital landscape over the next five years.
The NCPS is built upon five essential pillars: Legal Measures, Technical Measures, Organisational Measures, Capacity Building, and Cooperation. This framework aligns with the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Agenda and aims to foster confidence, trust, and security within Ghana’s ICT ecosystem. By addressing these fundamental areas, the policy seeks to create a resilient digital ecosystem, secure critical digital infrastructure, develop national capacity, deter cybercrime, and strengthen cooperation among various stakeholders involved in cybersecurity efforts.
During the launch event, Minister Owusu-Ekuful highlighted the global nature of cyber threats, stating that Ghana is not immune to these dangers. She pointed out the increasing dependence on digital networks for socio-economic development has attracted malicious actors seeking to compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of crucial systems. The NCPS represents a proactive measure to mitigate these risks and prepare for potential incidents, ensuring a robust response framework is in place.
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has been designated as the national agency responsible for implementing the NCPS, with a clear acknowledgment of the multi-sectorial approach required to address cybersecurity challenges effectively. Minister Owusu-Ekuful reiterated the shared responsibility among public sector institutions and private sector actors in safeguarding Ghana’s digital landscape. Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director-General of the CSA, expressed optimism about collaborating with various stakeholders to achieve a secure and resilient digital ecosystem, reinforcing the importance of this policy for the nation’s future in the digital age.
