Sierra Leone Unveils National Cybersecurity Strategy to Protect Country’s Digital Future
FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE - The Government of Sierra Leone has launched a comprehensive National Cybersecurity Strategy aimed at safeguarding the country’s digital infrastructure and protecting its citizens from cyber threats.
Aims and Objectives
The strategy aims to transform Sierra Leone into a digitally inclusive society empowered by a digital economy by 2029. The plan seeks to leverage digital technologies to unleash the innate potentials of every citizen and provide opportunities for economic growth and development.
Key Objectives
- Improving Cybersecurity Posture: Strengthening institutional frameworks, legal and regulatory mechanisms, and public education and awareness campaigns.
- Protecting Critical Digital Infrastructure: Protecting government networks, financial systems, and critical national infrastructure.
- Developing Cyber Capabilities: Supporting national security objectives and responding effectively to cyber threats.
- Promoting International Cooperation: Combating cybercrime with regional and global partners.
Risk-Based Approach
The strategy adopts a risk-based approach to cybersecurity, which involves identifying, assessing, and understanding the cyber risks faced by the country. This approach enables stakeholders to take proportionate measures to mitigate these risks, depending on their level of exposure.
Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
- The government will work with various stakeholders, including:
- Private sector organizations
- Academia
- Civil society organizations
- Promoting national cooperation and coordination for cybersecurity-related activities
Human Rights and the Rule of Law
The strategy is designed to be consistent with Sierra Leone’s international, regional, and national human rights obligations. It acknowledges the importance of protecting fundamental human rights and freedoms, including privacy, in the digital age.
Capacity Development
- Continuous capacity development in cybersecurity to address fast-changing threats and developments.
- Investing in training and capacity-building programs for personnel and partners to enhance their cybersecurity capabilities.
Socio-Economic Development
The strategy aims to leverage cyberspace to spur broader socio-economic development across the entire nation, recognizing its potential to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve living standards.
Addressing Cybercrime
- Promoting individual and collective action in combating cybercrime.
- Recognizing both individual responsibility and collective responsibility in taking steps to combat this threat.
Conclusion
The National Cybersecurity Strategy is a critical step towards protecting Sierra Leone’s digital future and ensuring that its citizens can safely use the internet for socio-economic benefit.