Dr. Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey: A Visionary Leader in Ghana’s Cybersecurity Landscape

On a significant day for Ghana’s digital future, Dr. Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, the Chairman of the Facilitating Committee for the Industry Forum, played a pivotal role in the official launch of the Industry Forum and the inauguration of Independent Assessors. This event marks a crucial step in enhancing the country’s cybersecurity framework, aligning with the Cybersecurity Act 2020 (Act 1038).

The Importance of the Industry Forum

Dr. Ashigbey, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Chamber of Telecommunications and the EMIs Chamber of Ghana, described the establishment of the Industry Forum as a “pivotal step in our cybersecurity strategy.” The forum is designed to unite industry stakeholders, providing a platform for dialogue on common interests in cybersecurity. This initiative resonates with the sentiments of Prof. Nii Narku Quaynor, often referred to as the "Doyen of the Internet in Africa," who emphasized that the strength of cybersecurity in Africa lies in unity and collaboration.

A Collaborative Effort

The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) initiated preliminary consultations to outline the steps necessary for launching the Forum. This led to the formation of a nine-member facilitating committee, which was tasked with planning the official launch as part of the annual National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM) celebrations. Dr. Ashigbey expressed gratitude to Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, the CSA Board, and the facilitating committee for their contributions, highlighting the collaborative spirit that underpins this initiative.

The committee, composed of representatives from various industry organizations, worked diligently to produce two critical documents: the Constitution of the Industry Forum and the Industry Code. Remarkably, both documents were completed ahead of schedule, showcasing the commitment and efficiency of the team. Dr. Ashigbey acknowledged the leadership of Madam Adelaide Benneh Prempeh and Mr. John Awuah in this endeavor.

Objectives of the Industry Forum

The Constitution of the Industry Forum establishes it as a collaborative platform aimed at sharing knowledge and promoting best practices in cybersecurity across different sectors. It outlines six specific objectives, including the promotion of the overall security posture of member organizations. This framework is essential for fostering a community of professionals who can effectively address emerging trends, threats, and best practices in the cybersecurity landscape.

Conversely, the Industry Code sets forth clear ethical and professional standards for all stakeholders within Ghana’s cybersecurity ecosystem. It aims to ensure compliance with Act 1038 and related regulations, providing a voluntary framework for the conduct of cybersecurity services. This is crucial for protecting government entities, businesses, and critical information infrastructure (CII) from cyberattacks.

A Living Document

Dr. Ashigbey emphasized that both the Constitution and the Industry Code are "living documents." They will be refined and improved over time through workshops and ongoing engagement with the cybersecurity ecosystem. This adaptability is vital in a field that is constantly evolving, ensuring that Ghana’s cybersecurity strategies remain relevant and effective.

Furthermore, he highlighted the Forum’s role in fulfilling Section 5.1(c) of Act 1038, which mandates the Industry Forum to nominate three representatives to serve on the CSA Board. This inclusion is a step towards greater regulatory independence for the CSA, fostering collaboration, transparency, and shared responsibility among stakeholders.

Call to Action

In his address, Dr. Ashigbey expressed appreciation to the Minister of Communications and Digitalisation and the Director-General of the CSA for their visionary support. He urged them to continue providing the necessary resources for the Forum’s successful operation. He also called upon industry members to actively participate in the Forum, stressing that their engagement is essential for deepening cybersecurity practices across Ghana.

Quoting Prof. Adnan Aziz, a prominent cybersecurity specialist, Dr. Ashigbey noted that “Cybersecurity is not just a technical challenge; it is a social and economic imperative that requires multi-stakeholder engagement.” This statement underscores the importance of collective action in addressing cybersecurity challenges.

A Broader Perspective

In concluding his remarks, Dr. Ashigbey drew attention to the ongoing fight against illegal mining (galamsey) in Ghana, encouraging all citizens to contribute to environmental preservation. He stated, “We all have a role to play to save ourselves from extinction,” reminding everyone of the interconnectedness of societal issues and the importance of collective responsibility.

Conclusion

Dr. Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey’s leadership in the establishment of the Industry Forum marks a significant milestone in Ghana’s cybersecurity landscape. His vision for collaboration and shared responsibility among stakeholders is essential for building a resilient digital future for the nation. As Ghana embarks on this journey, the engagement of all industry members will be crucial in fostering a robust cybersecurity environment that can withstand the challenges of the digital age.