Cyber Security Authority Recognizes President Akufo-Addo’s Cybersecurity Contributions

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has honored President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo for his exceptional contributions to advancing cybersecurity in Ghana. The recognition came at the CSA’s maiden awards ceremony held in Accra, where the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, was also acknowledged for her role in implementing the President’s cybersecurity vision.

Under President Akufo-Addo’s leadership, Ghana has seen its Cybersecurity Index ranking soar from 32.6% in 2017 to an impressive 99.27% in 2024, positioning the country as a Tier One cybersecurity leader in the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Global Cybersecurity Index. This milestone makes Ghana the second-highest ranked country in Africa and one of only five on the continent to achieve Tier One status.

Recognition of Stakeholders

Among other honorees was the Daily Graphic, a media partner recognized for its consistent contributions to promoting cybersecurity awareness. Additional awards were presented to key stakeholders across the public and private sectors, acknowledging their roles in Ghana’s growing cybersecurity success.

The event was the culmination of a month-long cybersecurity awareness campaign themed, “Combatting Misinformation and Disinformation in a Digitally Resilient Democracy: Our Collective Responsibility.”

Cybersecurity and National Development

Addressing the ceremony, President Akufo-Addo emphasized the government’s recognition of digital transformation as essential to national development and economic progress. The administration has prioritized advancing Ghana’s digital landscape since 2017 through initiatives such as the Cybersecurity Act 2020 (Act 1038), which provides a robust framework for local cyber protections, and updates to the National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy.

“The connection between cybersecurity and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is not just theoretical; it is a critical aspect of our nation’s growth and resilience. By investing in our cybersecurity infrastructure, we are positioning Ghana as a model of sustainable development on the global stage,” President Akufo-Addo said.

He urged citizens to uphold responsible digital behavior and support the government’s efforts to ensure a secure online environment, particularly with the 2024 elections approaching, stressing, “I stand for peace, and urge all citizens to act responsibly for peaceful and fair elections.”

Minister and Stakeholder Remarks

Minister Ursula Owusu-Ekuful expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their dedication to advancing cybersecurity in Ghana, highlighting the need for continued alliances to maintain Ghana’s Tier One standing on the Global Cyber Security Index.

CSA Director-General, Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, also underscored the importance of collaboration to meet emerging cybersecurity challenges in an ever-evolving digital landscape. “Our commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and collaboration will be key as we navigate this complex environment,” he stated.