The National Communications Authority (NCA) and the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) have resolved to work together to develop the country’ cyber security.
This is as a result of their acknowledgement of the importance of securing the Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) and ensuring a safe online experience for citizens as the adoption of internet technology in Ghana is increasing at very fast pace.
This was contained in a statement issued and signed by Mr Joe Anokye and Dr Albert Antwi-Bosiako, Director-Generals, NCA and CSA respectively and copied to the Ghanaian Times in Accra on yesterday.
It indicated that the two authorities made the resolve on Tuesday in Accra when the two institutions led by their respective Director-Generals met to discuss how to collaborate towards the successful implementation of the Cyber security Act, 2020 (Act 1038) which was assented into law on December 29, 2020.
The statement stated that after successful deliberations, recommendations and suggestions, the authorities agreed to hold joint discussions with various designated CII owners and come up with sector-specific directives to serve as guidelines for the protection of these CIIs.
They also said they would collaborate in the area of capacity building of the staff of both institutions to ensure that the personnel have fundamental knowledge and appreciation of cyber security.
“These capacity building projects may include exchange programmes, technical workshops, and consultations,” the statement added.
The authorities would also work together to determine a minimum certification as baseline requirements for Computer Emergency Response Team staff in both institutions.
They would further join forces to raise awareness and educate the public on critical national issues, technology usage, cybersecurity, cybercrime and related matters.
“Adopt a multi-stakeholder engagement approach through partnerships to enhance stakeholder-knowledge on the law and to create a cooperative environment to support law enforcement and build capacities among various sectors,” the statement added.
The CSA and the NCA have been collaborating in several areas since 2017 towards the development of cyber security in the country.
These collaborative efforts, among others, have been recognised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the country was scored 86.69% in the latest Global Cyber security Index (GCI), a major progress from previous ratings in 2017 and 2018 which were 32.6per cent and 43.7 per cent respectively.
The institutions have therefore reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate in order to improve upon this rating and ensure a safe and secure digital ecosystem in Ghana.
BY TIMES REPORTER
