Ghana: Cyber Security Authority Receives 907 License and Accreditation Requests

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has reported an impressive total of 907 license and accreditation requests since the commencement of the process earlier this year, according to Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director-General of the CSA.

These requests encompass a broad spectrum of applications, including 134 institutions seeking licenses as cybersecurity service providers, 41 entities pursuing accreditation as cybersecurity establishments, and 732 individuals applying for accreditation as cybersecurity professionals.

The CSA initiated the licensing and accreditation process on March 1, 2023, as part of its mission to enhance cybersecurity practices in the sector. They had set a deadline of September 30, 2023, for cybersecurity service providers, establishments, and professionals to obtain the requisite licenses and accreditations.

This regulatory framework is aimed at ensuring that licensed and accredited entities are legally authorized to engage in legitimate cybersecurity activities, as stipulated in Sections 57 and 58 of the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038).

While speaking at the launch of the National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM) 2023 in Accra, Dr. Antwi-Boasiako hinted at the possibility of extending the deadline to encourage further participation. He noted that the substantial number of applications received has exceeded initial expectations, indicating significant interest and demand in the cybersecurity sector.

Dr. Antwi-Boasiako stated, “This number will certainly increase, and hence I am already making a case for the board to allow an extension of the [deadline] for further engagement. This is the first time we are doing this, and I do believe that once we intensify engagements we can achieve even better results.”

Promoting a Culture of Digital Safety

Ghana is among several countries worldwide participating in the Cybersecurity Awareness Month initiative, joining nations like Canada, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and others. This year’s theme, “Promoting a Culture of Digital Safety,” aims to foster a resilient digital economy by instilling a collective mindset and behavior that prioritizes responsible online conduct.

Albert Kan Dapaah, the National Security Minister, stressed the need to promptly cultivate a culture of digital safety. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, industry, and the general public in achieving this goal.

Dapaah highlighted the government’s role in creating a secure digital environment, including investments in robust cybersecurity measures and collaboration with international partners to combat cybercrime. He also called on the private sector to prioritize cybersecurity, invest in employee training, and adhere to best practices for data protection.

Deputymaa Boateng, Deputy Communications and Digitalisation Minister, cited the evolving cybersecurity landscape and its associated risks. She referred to the INTERPOL Global Crime Trend Summary Report of 2022, which identified ransomware, phishing, online scams, and hacking as major global threats.

Boateng emphasized the importance of responsible online practices and the protection of personal information, noting that NCSAM 2023 aims to create synergy between public and private sector stakeholders in raising awareness about cybersecurity and its risks. She expressed hope that the event would increase appreciation for the CSA’s ongoing work, particularly in safeguarding the country’s Critical Information Infrastructure (CII).