National Cybersecurity Awareness Month Launched in Ghana: A Call for Digital Safety

In an era where digital technology is deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life, the importance of cybersecurity has never been more pronounced. Recognizing this critical need, the Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, has officially launched the National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM) in Ghana. This initiative aims to educate the public on the significance of digital safety and to promote best practices in navigating the increasingly complex digital landscape.

The Theme: Combating Misinformation and Disinformation

This year’s NCSAM is themed “Combating Misinformation and Disinformation in a Digitally Resilient Democracy: Our Collective Responsibility.” The launch event took place at the Ministry of Information in Accra, bringing together government officials, private sector representatives, cybersecurity experts, and civil society organizations. The campaign, which runs throughout October, seeks to foster a culture of cybersecurity awareness and responsible digital tool usage among Ghanaians.

The Minister’s Address: Acknowledging the Digital Transformation

During the launch, Hon. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful highlighted the transformative impact of digital technologies on the lives of citizens. She noted that while these advancements have facilitated new ways of living, working, and interacting, they have also introduced significant risks, including cyberbullying, privacy breaches, and the rampant spread of misinformation.

“The point of digitalization is cybersecurity—you can’t have one without the other,” she emphasized. The Minister acknowledged the dual-edged nature of technological advancements, particularly the potential of artificial intelligence to enhance lives while also posing new challenges.

Mobile Connectivity: A Pillar of Digital Transformation

Hon. Owusu-Ekuful underscored the importance of mobile connectivity as a cornerstone of Ghana’s digital transformation journey. The rollout of high-speed data networks, including 4G and 5G, aims to ensure that all citizens can access the myriad digital initiatives emerging in the country. This connectivity is vital for fostering an informed and engaged citizenry, particularly as Ghana approaches its upcoming elections.

The Urgency of Responsible Digital Engagement

As the nation gears up for elections, the Minister urged citizens to utilize digital platforms responsibly. “It is crucial that we use digital platforms to campaign peacefully and factually, rather than to spread fear and heighten tensions unnecessarily,” she stated. This call to action reflects a broader concern about the potential for digital platforms to be misused in ways that could undermine the democratic process.

The Growing Threat of Misinformation

Statistics presented by Hon. Owusu-Ekuful reveal a concerning trend: as of January 2024, Ghana had 24.6 million internet users, representing 69.8% of the population, and 7.4 million active social media users. This widespread access to digital platforms has made Ghanaians increasingly vulnerable to misinformation and disinformation, particularly on social media.

The Minister cited a study by the University of Oxford, which found that social media was used to spread misinformation in 81 countries, with a staggering 70% of online misinformation disseminated by just 10% of social media accounts. This highlights the urgent need for public awareness and proactive measures to combat the spread of false information.

Measures to Combat Disinformation Ahead of Elections

In response to the growing threat of disinformation, Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, the Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, announced that the authority is intensifying efforts to address this issue as the country approaches its elections. He introduced a hotline for citizens to verify any suspicious information circulating online, encouraging them to report any concerns by calling 292.

A Global Movement: The Origins of NCSAM

The NCSAM initiative, which originated in the United States in 2004 under the auspices of the US Department of Homeland Security, has evolved into a collaborative international event. Ghana is the latest nation to join this global effort to promote cybersecurity awareness and ensure a safer digital future for all.

Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility

As Ghana embarks on this important campaign, the message is clear: cybersecurity is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all citizens. By fostering awareness and encouraging responsible digital engagement, Ghana can work towards a digitally resilient democracy that safeguards the rights and safety of its citizens in an increasingly interconnected world. The launch of NCSAM serves as a timely reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures in the face of evolving cyber threats.