The 4th National Cybersecurity Conference has officially commenced in Mogadishu, Somalia, co-organized by the National Communications Authority (NCA) and Mogadishu University. The two-day conference brings together government officials, representatives from communication and technology companies, internet service providers, banks, universities, civil society organizations, researchers, and cybersecurity experts. This year's theme, "Building Confidence and Resilience in Cybersecurity through Design," aims to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities, improve digital systems, and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
The conference seeks to enhance cybersecurity, develop secure digital systems, and promote cooperation among stakeholders. Mogadishu University's Vice Chancellor, Dr. Ibraahim Maxamed Mursal, emphasized the role of universities in producing cybersecurity professionals and highlighted the university's new Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics program. He stressed that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility requiring collaboration between government, universities, private companies, and society.
Dr. Ibraahim Maxamed Mursal noted that universities play a crucial role in developing skills and research needed to address emerging cybersecurity challenges. The Vice Chancellor's remarks underscored the importance of academic institutions in shaping the country's cybersecurity landscape. By investing in education and research, Somalia aims to build a robust cybersecurity framework.
The National Communications Authority's Managing Director, Mustafa Yaasiin Sheekh, presented the authority's achievements in cybersecurity, including the launch of the Somali Computer Incident Response Team (SOMCIRT) in March 2024. The authority has also provided training for government employees, raised public awareness, and developed guidelines for cybersecurity and risk management. These efforts demonstrate Somalia's commitment to enhancing its cybersecurity posture.
Mustafa Yaasiin Sheekh highlighted that this year's progress lays a critical foundation for strengthening Somalia's cybersecurity. The conference provides a platform for knowledge sharing, research, and expertise exchange, aiming to develop effective solutions for national cybersecurity efforts. The Managing Director's remarks emphasized the importance of collaboration and capacity building in addressing cybersecurity challenges.
The conference was officially opened by the Minister of Communications and Technology of the Federal Government of Somalia, Xildhibaan Maxamed Aadan Macallin. The Minister commended the NCA and Mogadishu University for hosting the conference for the fourth consecutive year. He noted the launch of SOMCIRT and plans to establish the National Cybersecurity Academy by the end of 2024. The Minister encouraged participants to share ideas and develop practical recommendations for enhancing cybersecurity and public awareness.
The conference features research and discussions on cybersecurity policies, digital infrastructure protection, emerging threats, and national cybersecurity incident response. The event focuses on designing secure digital systems, aligning with this year's theme. Key outcomes from the conference are expected to inform Somalia's cybersecurity strategy and promote a safer digital environment for its citizens.
Key points
- The conference aims to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities and promote collaboration among stakeholders.
- Somalia's National Communications Authority has made significant progress in cybersecurity, including the launch of SOMCIRT.
- The conference focuses on designing secure digital systems and enhancing public awareness about cybersecurity.
