Internet infrastructure security guidelines unveiled

The African Internet Summit, currently taking place in Nairobi, has brought important developments in the field of internet security. The Internet Society, in collaboration with the Africa Union Commission, has released a new set of Internet infrastructure security guidelines. This release underscores the pressing need for African nations to transform their approach to cybersecurity preparedness in the face of growing cyber threats. Dawit Bekele, Director of the Africa Region Bureau, joined CNBC Africa from their Nairobi studio to shed light on this crucial initiative. Bekele mentioned that the guidelines were developed due to the increasing reliance of individuals and businesses in Africa on the internet. The need to establish trust in the online environment is paramount, particularly in light of the rising incidents of cyber threats such as ransomware. These guidelines aim to assist African nations in mitigating the various cyber threats prevalent in the continent. Reflecting on Kenya's ranking of 69 out of 127 countries in Deloitte's Global Threat Index, Bekele acknowledged the country's efforts in enhancing cybersecurity. Despite the progress made, there is still significant work to be done to bolster security measures for businesses and citizens. Kenya, as a major African economy with a burgeoning internet sector, is a prime target for cyber attacks, necessitating a collaborative approach involving ISPs, government bodies, organizations, and individual users. Bekele emphasized the importance of collaboration among diverse institutions to ensure comprehensive internet security. No single entity can solely address the complexities of cybersecurity, underscoring the need for a united front in implementing essential security principles for safeguarding online activities. Trust in the online sphere is vital for leveraging the internet effectively to enhance various aspects of life. Addressing concerns about internet penetration, currently at 25.1% on the continent, Bekele stressed the significance of both access and trust. While expanding access to the internet remains a crucial goal for the Internet Society, building trust in online platforms is equally essential. Without trust, the potential benefits of the internet cannot be fully realized, making it imperative to address both access issues and security concerns simultaneously. The release of these new internet infrastructure security guidelines marks a significant step towards fortifying cybersecurity measures across Africa. By fostering collaboration, implementing essential security principles, and prioritizing trust in the online environment, African nations can navigate the evolving landscape of cyber threats with greater resilience and preparedness.