Expert urges Africa-focused solutions to tackle cyber threats

By Edward Dankwah

Accra, November 5, GNA – Mr. Emmanuel Adinkra, President and Chief Information Security Officer of the Ghana Internet Safety Foundation, says there is an urgent need for culturally relevant approaches to cybersecurity, especially for African communities.

He argued that global solutions often overlook regional nuances, and emphasized the importance of localized strategies in tackling cyber threats and online harm.

Mr. Adinkra presented at Stanford University’s Trust and Safety Research Conference in California-USA.

The conference brought together experts from different sectors to address pressing issues related to digital security and online harm.

“We cannot rely on a one-size-fits-all solution for cybersecurity. African countries, with their unique cultural and socio-economic contexts, need a tailored approach to protect their digital spaces,” Mr Adinkra added.

Much of Mr Adinkra’s speech focused on Ghana’s ongoing fight against Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), Online Child Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OCSEA) and other forms of cybercrime targeting children.

Mr. Adinkra, who is also a leading voice on trust and security, discussed Ghana’s efforts to combine global knowledge with local action, from raising community awareness to working closely with law enforcement and policymakers.

The President said it is important to develop strategies that reflect local customs and needs, especially in African regions.

He emphasized that community engagement and digital literacy are crucial in the fight against online threats such as CSAM and OCSEA in Ghana.

He said there is a need for partnerships between industry, academia and civil society to make significant progress on trust and security.

“In Ghana, such cooperation has proven to be of great importance in protecting children from online exploitation,” he added.

He praised the cross-pollination of ideas at the conference and shared how Ghana’s cybersecurity measures have benefited from adapting international strategies to local realities.

GNA