Building a sustainable Cybersecurity Culture through Cybersecurity Education and Training

In a recent engaging discussion with our special guest, Mr. Faris Mubarek, we delved into a wide range of topics, shedding light on the current state of cybersecurity, its impact on various sectors, and the pressing need for awareness and inclusivity. Here's a brief overview of the key points from our enlightening conversation:

Ecysa: An Organization on the Rise

Faris Mubarek is not only an accomplished professional but also the founding member and executive director of Ecysa, a rapidly growing organization set to make significant contributions to the public and private sectors in the realm of cybersecurity. With Cybersecurity Awareness Month in full swing, Ecysa is gearing up to participate in multiple events, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity in today's digital landscape.

Cyber Threats Targeting GERD

During our discussions and events, we learned that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a prime target for cyberattacks. In response, the Information Network Security Agency (INSA) has expressed its intention to collaborate with the private sector to bolster cybersecurity defenses and protect critical infrastructure.

Cybersecurity Awareness in Africa

A striking statistic emerged during our conversation: a staggering 90% of private businesses in Africa lack a cybersecurity policy, rendering them vulnerable to cyberattacks. Fortunately, there's a growing recognition among these businesses of the paramount importance of cybersecurity.

The Cost of Cybercrime

A stark reminder of the consequences of inadequate cybersecurity practices, Ethiopia recently suffered substantial financial losses, totaling over 1.9 billion Ethiopian Birr, due to cyberattacks. These losses stemmed from a combination of cybercrime and user negligence.

The Urgent Need for Cybersecurity Culture

One resounding message that came through was the critical need for a cybersecurity culture. This culture encompasses awareness, ensuring the technologies we use have robust cybersecurity protections, and organizations taking significant steps to protect their data.

Cybersecurity Policies in Ethiopia

One concerning revelation is that, currently, only banks in Ethiopia have comprehensive information security policies. A multitude of private entities lack such security policies, which leaves them vulnerable to cyber threats. The approval of the National Data Protection Act is eagerly awaited, as it promises to play a pivotal role in enforcing information security standards across the board.

Empowering the Youth

Faris Mubarek is actively engaged in nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. He recently conducted a 40-hour cybersecurity training program at INSA, catering to a diverse audience, including high school students and professionals. This underscores the importance of building a skilled and aware workforce, starting from a young age.

Gender Diversity: A Growing Imperative

Our discussion also highlighted the underrepresentation of women in the cybersecurity field in Ethiopia. The need to encourage and equip women to pursue careers in cybersecurity is evident, and Mr. Faris emphasized the role of the government in diversifying the workforce in terms of gender.

Our conversation with Mr. Faris Mubarek illuminated the critical nature of cybersecurity in today's world, with a specific focus on Ethiopia. It served as a reminder that cybersecurity is not only a technical challenge but also a cultural and societal one. As we navigate this ever-evolving landscape, it's essential to remain vigilant, promote awareness, and work towards a more inclusive and secure digital future.