Ghana’s Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has licensed 51 cybersecurity companies, marking a drastic move towards aligning the West African nation’s cybersecurity standards with global frameworks.
This initiative makes Ghana the first country in Africa and the second globally, after Singapore, to implement a comprehensive regulatory framework for cybersecurity players.
The cybersecurity agency’s Director-General, Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako warned that offering cybersecurity services without proper licensing or accreditation violates the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038). He emphasized that violators would face strict sanctions, including criminal prosecutions and administrative penalties.
Additionally, Antwi-Boasiako urged other CSPs, CEs, and CPs in the process of obtaining their licenses to meet all necessary requirements. He noted that the CSA, in collaboration with the Public Procurement Authority (PPA) and other stakeholders, is working to ensure compliance with the guidelines of the Cybersecurity Act.
The CSA began the registration process in March 2023, following extensive stakeholder engagements since October 2022. Over 30 industry engagements were conducted across various sectors, including academia, civil society organizations, and government institutions, to refine regulatory guidelines and support applicants.
Mrs. Adelaide Benneh-Prempeh, a CSA governing board member, highlighted that the regulatory framework is a strategic pillar for developing Ghana’s cybersecurity industry and demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding the digital landscape.
She emphasized that the collaboration among CSPs, CEs, and CPs would drive adaptive resilience and continuous improvement in the cybersecurity ecosystem.
“Today’s ceremony is not just a culmination but a catalyst for continued collaboration and innovation in our cybersecurity ecosystem,” she said.
The Cybersecurity Service Providers (CSPs), Cybersecurity Establishments (CEs), and Cybersecurity Professionals (CPs) were among the players that was endorsed by the CSA.
