Over 1000 World Cyber Security Experts Gather In Accra

Ghana will from today – Wednesday and Thursday, play host to the maiden Global Conference on Cyber Capacity Building (GC3B) scheduled to take place at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City in the capital city – Accra. 

The event will be attended by over 800 delegates and other stakeholders in the cyber space from 100 countries across the world.

The global conference, on the theme: “Cyber Resilience for Development”, is being held in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, Cyber Security Authority, Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE), the Cyber Peace Institute, the World Bank and the World Economic Forum.

It, among other things, aims at gathering leaders, decision-makers and experts across borders and sectors working towards effective, sustainable and inclusive stewardship of international cooperation for cyber capacity building in the era of rampant cyber threats.

Accra Call

Briefing the press on the conference at the Ministry of Information last Friday, the Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, Dr Albert Antwi-Boasiako, said an important legacy of the conference would be the launch of the Accra Call.

“The Accra Call for Cyber Resilient Development is the outcome document of the GC3B and aims to stimulate global action to elevate cyber resilience across international and national development agendas; promote cyber capacity building that supports broader development goals; effectively serving the needs and priorities of developing countries; and draw from the existing shared commitments and ongoing relevant efforts in international for a and processes,” he said.

The actions set out in the document, he said, would strengthen the role of cyber resilience as an enabler for sustainable development; advance demand-driven, effective and sustainable cyber capacity building; foster stronger partnerships and better coordination; and unlock financial and implantation modalities.

Document

Dr Antwi-Boasiako said the document which countries and global institutions were being called to endorse would serve as an important reference point for global cyber security development.

“After the conference, Ghana is expected to play an active role to facilitate and support global action on implementation,” he said.

He said the conference would present an opportunity for countries to meet global leaders in cybersecurity, build their capacity in cybersecurity and showcase the continent’s cyber security exhibitions and expertise globally.

Moreover, the Cyber Security Authority Director General noted that it would also pave the way to assist in the creation of a platform that sought to offer networking opportunities, giving the cyber leaders wealth of resources to collaborate with, learn from and interact with.

“For Ghana, the conference will further bolster our commitment and availability to pushing the agenda for a safer and secure digital nation, foster key partnerships, and catalyse clear commitments on cyber capacity building,” he emphasised.

Critical realm

The President of the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE) Foundation, Christopher Painter, said Ghana was poised to lead discussions and collaborations in the critical realm of cyber security, contributing to global efforts for a more secure digital future.

He described the conference as unique, saying that it was an event that was not only dedicated to capacity building but also bringing different communities together.

Conference Aim

The digital world aims to touch every aspect of lives to enable human to connect, work, learn and travel, and plays an important role in safeguarding life essentials such as food, water, and healthcare. The huge opportunities also come with digital risks that is needed to be aware of including Governments, Businesses, Academia and the Society at large.

The inaugural Global Conference on Cyber Capacity Building (GC3B) is organized to raise awareness of the importance that every nation has the expertise to invest in their digital future, and to encourage countries to work together to ensure a free, open, and secure digital world.

Minister Message

Mrs. Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, MP – Minister for Communications and Digitalisation in her welcome message said “Dear Esteemed Participants. On behalf of the Government of Ghana, I am delighted to welcome you all to our capital city, Accra, as we host the inaugural Global Conference on Cyber Capacity Building (GC3B) in our vibrant and culturally rich nation. As the Minister responsible for cybersecurity, I view this conference as a momentous one for the international community as it will foster collaboration among 800 global leaders and organisations.

“In cyberspace, no nation is an island, and it is through our collective efforts that we can build resilience against current and emerging cyber threats. The GC3B will provide a platform for thought leaders, industry experts, and professionals to share insights, exchange knowledge, and forge partnerships that transcend borders. I encourage you to participate actively in the various sessions, engage in fruitful discussions, and take advantage of the networking opportunities provided. Together, let us lay the foundation for a more secure and resilient future.

“For Ghana, this conference is not just an event; it is a testament to our dedication to advancing cybersecurity on the global stage. We aim to showcase the rich cultural diversity of our country while facilitating discussions on the critical cybersecurity issues that affect us all. Thank you for being part of this historic moment. While in Accra, I hope you will also make time to taste, wear and see Ghana as we welcome you with open arms. I am looking forward to a successful and impactful GC3B!! Akwaaba.”