We’re thrilled to invite you to the launch of our report, Building Cybersecurity in West and Central Africa, featuring an insightful X Space event on Thursday, November 21, 2024, at 14:00 GMT (Dakar time). In collaboration with the Give1Project, Concordia University in Montreal, Canada, and UNDP WACA, this event will bring together cybersecurity experts and youth leaders for an engaging discussion on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity in the region.

Context

As West and Central Africa rapidly embrace the digital economy, the region is presented with both significant challenges and promising opportunities for growth and investment. Digital transformation is the backbone of modernization, driving sectors like fintech, e-commerce, smart agriculture, and governance toward economic development. However, this shift also exposes critical vulnerabilities in cybersecurity, as personal, businesses, and governmental data increasingly move online, often without proper safeguards or comprehensive legal frameworks to protect against growing cyber threats.

Various sectors—governance, banking, stock markets, and climate change regulation—are deeply affected by the digitization process. As one of our participants observed, "data is a national asset that needs to be protected." This statement reflects the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures, including robust regulations for data privacy, stronger mechanisms for combating cybercrime, the safeguarding of critical infrastructure, and the facilitation of digital transformation to secure socio-economic development.

Cybercrime in the region includes a wide range of illicit activities, from hacking, phishing, and unlawful access to personal data to more severe forms of cyber-terrorism. The rise of these threats is evidenced by a dramatic increase in ransomware attacks on businesses, particularly in Nigeria, where such attacks surged from 22% in 2020 to 71% in 2021, with the average cost per incident rising to $3.43 million. These attacks demonstrate the profound risks to economic stability and highlight the pressing need for cybersecurity as a socio-economic imperative.

The Give1Project in collaboration with UNDP has organized a cybersecurity training program targeting youth leaders in West and Central Africa. The program highlights the importance of cybersecurity in sectors like fintech, governance, and climate action, while emphasizing the need for strong data protection laws, efforts to combat cybercrime, and the development of secure digital infrastructures. Participants engaged with case studies, learned about the consequences of insufficient cybersecurity measures and explored the role of youth in driving digital resilience through education and innovation.  The program also focuses on empowering marginalized and underrepresented groups—particularly women and young people—to gain the skills needed to navigate the digital landscape and pursue careers in tech. 
 

Key Discussion Topics

Our expert panel will address crucial topics, including:

• Regional Cybersecurity Challenges and Opportunities: Unique issues and the need for stronger digital infrastructure to handle rising cyber threats.
• Women’s Digital Rights and Safety: Addressing the digital gender divide and efforts to combat online gender-based violence and digital exclusion of vulnerable groups.
• Local Solutions and Future Steps: How local innovation, digital literacy, and advocacy can bridge the digital divide and drive inclusive growth.

Objectives

Our goal is to:

• Raise awareness of the region’s cybersecurity vulnerabilities and the need to protect digital infrastructures.
• Share insights from the Give1Project Digital Skills Academy and UNDP’s cybersecurity training on empowering youth and women to lead in cybersecurity.
• Strengthen partnerships to build a safer, more inclusive digital landscape.
• Showcase success stories from participants making a difference in their communities.
   

Methodology

The event will include:

• Presentations by specialists on the current state of cybersecurity in West and Central Africa.
• Case Studies highlighting the journeys of youth leaders who are already impacting their communities.
• Panel Discussions with industry professionals and UNDP experts on strategies and opportunities for regional collaboration.
• Q&A Session providing an open floor for questions and insights.
   

Expected Results

• Increased understanding of cybersecurity challenges in West and Central Africa.
• Strengthened collaboration among key stakeholders to address regional cybersecurity issues.
• Empowerment of youth and women to take leadership roles in the cybersecurity field.
• Greater visibility of the Give1Project’s contributions to the digital resilience of the region.
• Actionable recommendations to improve cybersecurity education and policies in the region.
   

Event Agenda

Date: Thursday, November 21, 2024

Time: 14:00 - 15:00 GMT (Dakar time)

Location: X (formerly Twitter) : Subscribe here

 Agenda:

Session 1: Cybersecurity and Digital Governance
We will examine the region’s progress in digital adoption, challenges in data governance, and the impact of internet shutdowns on national security and the economy. Discussions will also address the role of emerging technologies like AI in shaping the future of cybersecurity in the region.

Session 2: Women’s Digital Rights and Online Safety
This session focuses on the digital gender divide, online gender-based violence, and strategies to promote women’s digital inclusion and leadership. Experts will discuss frameworks to ensure safer online spaces for women.

Session 3: Next Steps and Regional Solutions
Explore innovative strategies to enhance digital literacy, promote local cybersecurity solutions, and strengthen regional collaboration for resilience in the digital age.

Launch of the Cybersecurity Booklet
Celebrate the achievements of young leaders who completed the cybersecurity training program by Give1Project and UNDP, showcasing success stories that inspire action.

Closing Q&A and Remarks
Engage with panelists during an interactive Q&A session, followed by closing remarks highlighting key takeaways and next steps.
 

Be part of the conversation on building a secure digital future.

Join us for a meaningful discussion on cybersecurity and regional empowerment as we work toward a stronger, more resilient digital landscape for West and Central Africa.