The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by officially licensing and accrediting 51 qualified cybersecurity industry players.

This positions Ghana as the first country in Africa and only the second globally, following Singapore, to implement a comprehensive regulatory framework for Cybersecurity Service Providers (CSPs), Cybersecurity Establishments (CEs), and Cybersecurity Professionals (CPs).

In a historic ceremony held on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, the CSA awarded licenses and accreditations to 51 CSPs, CEs, and CPs, marking a significant step towards enhancing Ghana’s digital security infrastructure.

Addressing the recipients, Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director-General of the CSA, emphasized the importance of compliance with the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038).

He cautioned against providing cybersecurity services without proper authorization, warning of stringent penalties for violators.

“The CSA will spare no effort in ensuring that all cybersecurity entities adhere strictly to regulatory standards. This includes criminal prosecutions and administrative penalties for those found in breach of the law,” Dr. Antwi-Boasiako affirmed.

The Cybersecurity Act empowers the CSA to regulate and oversee cybersecurity activities across Ghana, mandating the licensing of CSPs and accreditation of CEs and CPs.

The registration process commenced in March 2023, following extensive consultations and stakeholder engagements since October 2022 to refine regulatory guidelines.

Dr. Antwi-Boasiako commended the collaborative efforts of stakeholders from various sectors, including industry players, academia, civil society organizations, and government institutions.

He underscored the invaluable insights gathered during these engagements, which facilitated the development of robust guidelines for licensing and accreditation.

Mrs. Adelaide Benneh-Prempeh, a member of the CSA governing board, emphasized the strategic importance of the regulatory framework in advancing Ghana’s cybersecurity landscape.

She described the licensing ceremony as a catalyst for continued collaboration and innovation, fostering adaptive resilience in the cybersecurity ecosystem.

Feedback from newly licensed CSPs, CEs, and CPs reflected their commitment to upholding cybersecurity standards and collaborating closely with the CSA to ensure a secure digital environment.

Despite acknowledging the rigorous process, they expressed enthusiasm for contributing to the growth and resilience of Ghana’s cybersecurity industry.Looking ahead, the CSA remains dedicated to further refining regulatory frameworks and supporting cybersecurity professionals in adapting to evolving threats.

The licensing of CSPs, along with the accreditation of CEs and CPs, marks a pivotal moment in Ghana’s cybersecurity journey, positioning the country as a leader in Africa’s digital security landscape.