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'As our digital footprint expands, so does our exposure to cyber threats' – Rev Okosun

KRIF Rev Okosun Kenya Summit Rev Okosun with some leaders from the summit

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 Source: Francis Ameyibor, Contributor

The Reverend Kenndy Okosun, KRIF Ghana Executive Chairman, has revealed mobile phones, internet access, and digital services are transforming lives, driving economic growth, and fostering innovation across the African continent.

He, however, warned that with these advancements came significant risks that were not bound by geography, “as our digital footprint expands, so does our exposure to these dangers,” and called for proactive measures to deal with it.

He noted that Africa stands at the threshold of a digital revolution: “We are embracing technology at an unprecedented rate.

Rev. Okosun spoke with newsmen on the sidelines of a Krif Ghana Limited Thanksgiving Church Service, which was held at Action Worship Center (Action Chapel International Judea Temple) in Dansoman which was monitored by a document obtained by the Communication for Development and Advocacy (CDA Consult), communicate2develop@gmail.com, which is a development communication advocacy non-governmental organisation based in Tema, Ghana, has revealed.

The thanksgiving service was attended by Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) who recently participated in the Radware Cybersecurity Conference in Nairobi, Kenya.

KRIF Ghana Limited selected eleven CISOs from corporate institutions in Ghana and one from Nigeria who attended this year’s cybersecurity conference in Kenya.

The event brought together cybersecurity experts and IT professionals in the technology space across the world to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and advancements in cybersecurity.

It provided insights and strategies to help organisations strengthen their cybersecurity posture to drive socio-economic growth in their respective countries.

Rev. Okosun noted that "these threats range from identity theft and financial fraud to more sophisticated attacks on critical infrastructure such as energy grids, financial systems, and healthcare networks.”

The KRIF Ghana Limited Executive Chairman said the impact of such breaches could be devastating, eroding trust, causing economic damage, and endangering lives; therefore, it was crucial to recognise that cyber security was not merely an IT issue but a shared responsibility.

He warned, “We are all at risk, and therefore, we must all be part of the solution. As we navigate the digital age, let us remember that cyber security is not a destination but a journey. It requires continuous effort, adaptation, and vigilance.

“By staying informed, adopting best practices, and fostering a collective sense of responsibility, we can mitigate the risks and safeguard our digital lives.”

Rev. Okosun pledged KRIF Ghana Limited’s commitment to bringing to corporate Ghana cybersecurity solutions to secure networks whenever, wherever, and without complexity.

“As we continue to be reminded that the threat landscape is always evolving, we shall provide solutions that keep you consistently ahead.

“We aim to apply Al in our efforts to provide security solutions that prevent evasive threats,” he stated.

Rev. Okosun stressed the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures in Africa, emphasizing that Africa's rapid digital growth is outpacing cybersecurity infrastructure, leaving individuals and organizations vulnerable to sophisticated attacks.

He, therefore, urged African governments and private sector actors to collaborate on building resilient cybersecurity frameworks to safeguard the continent's digital landscape.

He stressed that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, requiring continuous effort, adaptation, and vigilance.

"We must recognize that cybersecurity is not just an IT issue but a national security concern that requires a collective response," he added.

He noted that as Africa embraces technology, it is crucial to recognize cybersecurity as a journey, not a destination. By fostering innovation and adopting AI-powered security solutions, Africa can stay ahead of evolving threats and ensure a safer digital future.

Rev. Okosun noted that the threat of cyber attacks in Africa is real and urgent, and it requires a collective response and a commitment to building resilient cybersecurity frameworks.

“By working together, we can safeguard Africa's digital landscape and ensure a safer future for all,” the KRIF Ghana Limited Executive Chairman noted.

The Radware CyberSec summit in Kenya was attended by IT professionals and cyber security experts who discussed the latest trends, challenges, and advancements in cybersecurity, providing insights and strategies to strengthen cybersecurity posture and drive socioeconomic growth.

Source: Francis Ameyibor, Contributor