Ghana is exploring ways to establish a cyber-security fund for short-term and long-term cyber-security development goals, the Minister of Communications has said.
Madam Ursula Owusu-Ekuful bemoaned the lack of awareness on cyber-security threats among internet users in the country.
Speaking at her presentation for Parliamentary Select Committee Communications on digital safety, the Minister said that it is important for the public to be sensitized about the dangers of the internet.
“As part of the cybersecurity bill, the government is exploring ways to establish a cybersecurity Fund to support our short term, medium-term and long-term cybersecurity development goals. I implore the Select Committee to provide useful suggestions towards the establishment of this fund.”
“There is generally a lack of awareness among people who use the internet. Referencing the issues that emanate from frequent use of the internet, it is paramount that people are sensitized about certain habits that can become major threats to cybersecurity.”
The Minister for Communications also called for greater collaboration between the relevant state agencies and stakeholders towards ensuring a digitally safe country.
“Inculcating essential cyber hygiene practices in the citizens will address certain habits that lead to cyber-attacks.
Lack of domestic cooperation has also gravely impeded our ability to effectively fight cybercrime and address cyber-related issues. State and non-state actors need to effectively collaborate to tackle cyber threats and attacks.
These include cooperation among government agencies, intelligence agencies, private sector actors, academia, among others in fighting cybercrime.”
Madam Ursula Owusu-Ekuful also lamented the lack of a sustainable budget to fund her ministry’s effort to fight on cyber threats.
The Minister also touched on the legal limitations and how it is affecting the ministry’s work.
“A lack of a dedicated and sustainable budget to fund cybersecurity activities has been a major challenge. A sustainable budget is crucial to be able to develop our cyber-security in a sustainable manner.
Legal limitations have also been a major factor. Technology develops at a very fast the pace and our legislation must similarly be developed to deal with new and emerging threats within the cyberspace.”
The three-day residential retreat for member of the Parliamentary select committee too place From Friday, 31st May and ended on Sunday, 2nd June.
