Excerpt
The Cyber Security Authority (CSA) of Ghana stands as a pivotal institution in safeguarding the nation’s digital landscape. Established under the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), the CSA is mandated to regulate cybersecurity activities and promote the development of cybersecurity in the country.
Historical Background
The journey towards the formation of the CSA began with the establishment of the National Cyber Security Secretariat (NCSS) in 2017, following the appointment of the National Cybersecurity Advisor. This initiative evolved into the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in 2018. Recognizing the escalating cyber threats and the need for a robust regulatory framework, the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) was enacted, leading to the official commencement of the CSA’s operations on October 1, 2021.
Mandate and Constitutional Role
As a government agency under the Ministry of Communications and Digitalisation, the CSA is entrusted with several critical responsibilities:
- Regulating cybersecurity activities within Ghana.
- Preventing, managing, and responding to cybersecurity threats and incidents.
- Overseeing owners of Critical Information Infrastructure concerning cybersecurity activities, as well as regulating cybersecurity service providers and practitioners.
- Promoting the development of cybersecurity to ensure a secure and resilient digital ecosystem.
- Establishing platforms for cross-sector engagements on cybersecurity matters to foster effective coordination between public institutions and the private sector.
- Raising awareness on cybersecurity issues.
- Collaborating with international agencies to enhance the nation’s cybersecurity posture.
Organizational Structure and Leadership
The CSA operates under the leadership of the Director-General, Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, a renowned cybersecurity expert appointed as the first Director-General in 2021. The organizational structure includes various departments and units dedicated to specific aspects of cybersecurity, such as regulation, incident response, and public engagement. Notably, the Ghana National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-GH), established in August 2014, functions under the CSA to address cyber infractions on government networks and serves the private sector as well.
Mode of Appointment and Recruitment
Appointments within the CSA are guided by the provisions of the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038). The Director-General is appointed by the President of Ghana, while other key positions are filled through a combination of presidential appointments and standard recruitment processes, ensuring that qualified professionals are enlisted to uphold the Authority’s mandate.
Collaborations and Partnerships
The CSA collaborates with various national and international entities to bolster cybersecurity. Domestically, it works closely with government agencies, private sector organizations, and civil society groups. Internationally, the CSA engages with bodies such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE) to align Ghana’s cybersecurity practices with global standards.
Constitutional Reforms
The enactment of the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) marked a significant constitutional reform, providing a comprehensive legal framework for cybersecurity in Ghana. This legislation not only established the CSA but also outlined its powers, functions, and the regulatory mechanisms necessary to enhance the nation’s cybersecurity infrastructure.
Achievements
Since its inception, the CSA has made significant strides in enhancing Ghana’s cybersecurity landscape:
Licensing and Accreditation:
- In a landmark move, the CSA officially licensed and accredited 51 cybersecurity service providers and professionals in July 2024, aligning Ghana’s cybersecurity standards with global benchmarks.
National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy:
- The government, through the CSA, launched Ghana’s National Cybersecurity Policy and Strategy (NCPS) to address the increasing cybersecurity threats arising from the nation’s rapid digital transformation.
Global Recognition:
- Ghana’s cybersecurity efforts have been recognized internationally, with the country achieving a commendable position in the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index.
References
- https://www.csa.gov.gh/
- https://moc.gov.gh/csa/
- https://www.csa.gov.gh/about-us.php
- https://www.csa.gov.gh/cert-gh
- https://gna.org.gh/2024/07/cybersecurity-authority-licenses-51-cybersecurity-players/
- https://www.csa.gov.gh/ghana-launches-national-cybersecurity-policy-and-strategy.php
- https://www.modernghana.com/news/1369943/ghanas-cybersecurity-landscape-looked-impressive.html
- https://dev.trade.gov/market-intelligence/ghana-cybersecurity
- https://www.csa.gov.gh/licensing-and-accreditation-faq
- https://ncsam.cybersecurity.gov.gh/
- https://www.cybersecurityintelligence.com/cyber-security-authority-csa-ghana-8377.html