Dakar, Senegal – November 21, 2024 – In a decisive move to address critical vulnerabilities and strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure, the United Nations Development Programme Sub-Regional Hub for West and Central Africa (UNDP WACA), in collaboration with the Give1Project and Concordia University, hosted a X (formerly Twitter) Space discussion titled Building Cybersecurity in West and Central Africa.

This pivotal event marked the launch of a new cybersecurity booklet that offers a comprehensive overview of the state of cybersecurity in the region while highlighting inspiring stories of young professionals who have participated in transformative cybersecurity training programs. The booklet serves as both an educational resource and a motivational tool to drive awareness, action, and collaboration in tackling the region's cybersecurity challenges.  

Njoya Tikum, Regional Director for UNDP WACA, emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating, “Cybersecurity is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Governments, businesses, and civil society must collaborate to create policies and infrastructure that reflect international best practices while addressing the region's unique needs.”

The discussion convened youth leaders, cybersecurity experts, and policy analysts to explore actionable solutions for the region’s most pressing challenges. Among the critical issues addressed were inadequate data protection, policy gaps, and the economic impact of cyber threats on the region’s digital economy.

Highlighting the transformative power of youth engagement, the event showcased success stories from the Give1Project Digital Skills Academy. One notable alumnus, Victor Ekere, now Managing Director and Information Security Analyst at Secure Path, shared his experience, "Young professionals are the drivers of digital transformation. By equipping them with the right skills and opportunities, we empower them to tackle complex cyber challenges, foster innovation, and lead the charge in building a secure and inclusive digital ecosystem for all.”

Women and marginalized groups face disproportionate barriers to accessing technology and participating in the digital economy. The exclusion of these groups not only deepens social inequities but also hampers the region’s economic potential. Addressing these disparities is essential for building a sustainable and equitable digital future. Dr. Nadine Nibigira, a renowned cybersecurity expert and panelist, underscored the critical role of inclusion in fostering digital equity, “Bridging the digital divide requires a unified effort. Partnerships with local NGOs, educational institutions, and tech companies can bring much-needed expertise and resources to ensure underserved communities gain access to the digital tools and knowledge they need to thrive.”

West and Central Africa’s digital economy is rapidly expanding, driven by innovations in fintech, e-commerce, smart agriculture, and digital governance. However, this growth has exposed significant vulnerabilities. Cyber threats in the region have escalated, with ransomware attacks in Nigeria alone increasing from 22% in 2020 to 71% in 2021, costing an average of $3.43 million per incident. These attacks demonstrate the profound risks to economic stability and highlight the pressing need for cybersecurity as a socio-economic imperative.

The event concluded with a resounding call for stronger collaborations among governments, private sector actors, and civil society organizations to address cybersecurity challenges comprehensively. Key recommendations included:

• Clear and enforceable data protection regulations to safeguard sensitive information.
• Investments in national cybersecurity infrastructure to protect the region’s digital economy.
• Public education on cybersecurity risks and solutions to foster a digitally literate society.

By bringing together diverse stakeholders, this initiative highlights the region’s commitment to creating a secure and inclusive digital ecosystem. Through education, inclusion, and policy reform, West and Central Africa can lead the way in digital resilience and equitable development.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Bezawit Mekonnen at bezawit.mekonnen@undp.org

Notes for the Editors:

About GIVE1PROJECT

GIVE1PROJECT is a global organization that aims to engage youth as leaders in creating and building strong and healthy communities. The project achieves this goal through the successful operation of a network of civic engagement, leadership, entrepreneurship, job training, women's empowerment and educational programs. These programs are deliberately and strategically designed to help young men and women through a period of transformation and inspire them to continually strive for greater social and economic participation in their communities, both locally and internationally. Our organization attracts bright and talented individuals motivated by their mission to strengthen communities around the world. Specifically, to serve those who demonstrate a social, economic or political need. It was founded in 2009 by Thione Niang.

Learn more at https://give1project.net/

About Concordia Africa Initiative (a flagship project of Concordia University)

The Concordia Africa Initiative seeks to establish relationships and learn from Africa through unique collaborations that focus on youth employability and entrepreneurship.

The initiative is divided into three streams, each with a specific focus and set of activities.

Learn more at https://www.concordia.ca/africa.html

About UNDP

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet.

Learn more at www.undp.org/africa/waca

Explore the Give1 Project and UNDP Cybersecuirty training in Photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjB7qU4 
Explore our booklet: https://go.undp.org/JZd