Ghana’s digital future took another critical step forward with the launch of the 2024 National Cyber Security Awareness Month (NCSAM), led by the Minister for Communication and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful. Under the theme “Combating Misinformation/Disinformation in a Digitally Resilient Democracy; Our Collective Responsibility,“ the month-long event highlights the growing need for cyber literacy and awareness amidst the country’s increasing reliance on digital platforms.
The launch comes at a pivotal time, with the minister stressing the urgency of addressing the threats posed by misinformation and disinformation—particularly in the context of elections and governance. In her remarks, Owusu-Ekuful underscored the importance of digital literacy as a tool to protect individuals and institutions from cyber threats. She emphasized the role of the media in promoting accurate information and helping safeguard citizens from malicious online activities.
One of the core objectives of the NCSAM is to foster collaboration between government, businesses, and civil society. With the rapid expansion of Ghana’s cyber ecosystem, stakeholders are being urged to work together to mitigate the risks associated with cybercrime, hacking, and other digital threats. Owusu-Ekuful further highlighted how critical it is for Ghanaians to adopt safe online practices to ensure the integrity of the nation’s digital infrastructure.
Moreover, the minister lauded the economic benefits of Ghana’s digital transformation while cautioning that the rising tide of cybercriminal activities could undermine these gains. She pointed out that cyber-attacks on businesses, governmental institutions, and private citizens are not only costly but also endanger the progress being made toward digital innovation. The message from the Ministry is clear: the success of Ghana’s digital future lies in the hands of both its leaders and its citizens, each playing their part in safeguarding the nation’s online presence.
As Ghana looks ahead to future elections, the focus on combating online misinformation takes on heightened importance. Misinformation, amplified through social media and digital platforms, poses a significant risk to political stability and societal cohesion. The NCSAM initiative thus aims to create a digital culture where trust, safety, and responsible communication are paramount.
The National Communications Authority (NCA) and the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) are expected to play crucial roles throughout NCSAM, with various events and activities aimed at raising awareness and encouraging best practices in cybersecurity. Updates and more information on these initiatives can be found on their official platforms.