CSA LEADS CONVERSATIONS AT 3RD CISO SUMMIT ON ADVANCING CYBERSECURITY LEADERSHIP IN GHANA

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) proudly sponsored the 3rd edition of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Summit, held on April 9-10, 2025 under the theme,” “Proven Strategies for Global Cyber Executives: Maximising Organisational Security and Efficiency.”

Organised by Sapient Envision in collaboration with Innovare Ghana, the summit served as a premier platform for global cybersecurity leaders to converge and discuss the latest strategies and innovations in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.

The event was graced by the newly appointed Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, Roey Gilad, who used the occasion to commence his diplomatic duties in Ghana.

On the first day, CSA’s Acting Director-General, Mr. Divine Selase Agbeti, addressed the gathering. In his remarks, Mr. Agbeti emphasised the crucial role cybersecurity plays in national development, noting that as threats grow in sophistication, it is imperative that cybersecurity strategies align with organisational goals to drive both security and operational efficiency.

"The role of cybersecurity is no longer confined to just defence," Mr. Agbeti said. "It must be a catalyst for innovation, growth, and resilience in the digital age."

The summit was particularly timely given the rapid rise in cybercrime, which is projected to inflict global losses exceeding $10.5 trillion this year. With Africa alone suffering over $3.5 billion in annual cyber losses, the summit’s discussions focused on the urgent need for proactive, integrated cybersecurity strategies that can tackle these growing threats.

Ambassador Roey Gilad, making his first public appearance in Ghana, also addressed the summit, stressing the importance of international collaboration in fighting cybercrime. His remarks underscored the need for partnerships across borders, with a focus on shared threat intelligence and collective action to safeguard digital infrastructure globally.

The summit highlighted key initiatives driving cybersecurity in Ghana, including the licensing and accreditation framework for cybersecurity professionals. This initiative ensures that cybersecurity services in the country are delivered by qualified professionals, promoting industry trust and safeguarding businesses from increasing cyber risks.

On the second day, on behalf of Ghana’s Minister for Communication, Digital Technology, and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, Mr Abgbeti highlighted Ghana’s commitment to becoming a digital leader in Africa. He detailed the country’s ongoing efforts, including the launch of the Cybersecurity Industry Forum, which facilitates collaboration between private sector players, government, and other stakeholders.

The summit also discussed the CSA’s updated National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy, which provides a comprehensive roadmap for building a resilient digital ecosystem in Ghana. This strategy aims to enhance cybersecurity infrastructure, develop local capacity, and deter cybercrime while strengthening cooperation among international and local entities.

The event culminated in a call for greater collaboration and engagement between cybersecurity professionals, government bodies, and the private sector to ensure a secure digital environment. As the CISO Summit concluded, the key takeaway was clear: cybersecurity leadership in Ghana is not only about protecting systems but also about driving national digital resilience.