President Akufo-Addo and Minister Owusu-Ekuful Recognized for Cybersecurity Leadership in Ghana.

ACCRA: President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has been recognized for his leadership in advancing cybersecurity in Ghana, receiving an award for his dedication to enhancing the nation's digital security. The President's commitment has been pivotal in Ghana's significant strides towards establishing robust cybersecurity frameworks and initiatives, as highlighted at the 2024 Cybersecurity Awards held in Accra.According to Ghana News Agency, the awards ceremony celebrated Ghana's progress since 2017, where the country improved its cybersecurity rating from 36.2 percent to an impressive 99.27 percent on the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Global Cybersecurity Index. This achievement positions Ghana as the second-highest ranked country in Africa and among 46 nations worldwide to reach Tier One status, marking it as a role model in cybersecurity.The Cyber Security Authority, organizers of the awards, emphasized President Akufo-Addo's role in national development and cyber threat protection. Alongsid e the President, Mrs Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, was honored with the Exemplary Leader Award for her contributions to Ghana's digital transformation. Her efforts have been instrumental in operationalizing the government's ICT infrastructure program and enhancing digital services.The event also acknowledged the contributions of the Cyber Security Authority's leadership, governing board, service committee, staff, and both international and local stakeholders. Media organizations including Ghana News Agency, Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, and others were celebrated for their roles in promoting cybersecurity awareness and development.Since the Cyber Security Authority's inception in October 2021, several regulatory measures have been implemented, including the protection of Critical Information Infrastructure and the licensing of Cybersecurity Service Providers. The Authority has also revised the Child Online Protection Framework to ensure the safety of children on line.President Akufo-Addo, in his address, emphasized the importance of cybersecurity for national development and the protection of critical sectors like banking, energy, and health. He acknowledged partnerships with international organizations such as the Council of Europe and the African Union, which have strengthened Ghana's cybercrime and data protection laws.Mrs Owusu-Ekuful expressed her gratitude to stakeholders for their support, noting Ghana and Singapore's pioneering efforts in licensing cybersecurity professionals. Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, attributed the success to bipartisan support from stakeholders, highlighting the need to sustain this collaborative commitment.The event also featured the launch of a book by Dr Antwi-Boasiako, chronicling Ghana's cybersecurity journey as a model for other countries. The ceremony recognized individuals and institutions that have significantly contributed to the development of cybersecurity in Ghana, underl ining the importance of strategic partnerships in advancing the nation's cybersecurity mission.