Washington, DC Braces For Historic African Ambassadorial Cyber Diplomacy Roundtable

By Ajong Mbapndah L & Adonis Byemelwa

In a landmark event poised to reshape digital security across Africa, the Center for Cyber Diplomacy and Leadership (CCDL), in partnership with George Washington University, will host a cybersecurity forum on November 7, 2024.

This unprecedented gathering will bring together top African ambassadors, government leaders, and global industry experts to address the pressing need for cyber diplomacy across the continent. With cyber threats increasing in frequency and sophistication, the forum aims to bolster Africa’s digital infrastructure, encourage international collaboration, and position Africa as a key player in global cybersecurity governance.

The forum's mission is timely, given the sharp rise in cyberattacks targeting African government institutions, banks, and other critical infrastructure. The impact of these breaches is severe, causing substantial financial losses and compromising sensitive data.

A recent report by The Africa Report highlighted that Africa’s cybersecurity vulnerabilities have left critical data exposed and created significant financial risks. As Africa’s digital economy continues its rapid growth, so does the need for resilient digital defenses. Strengthening cybersecurity policies, enhancing regional cooperation, and establishing partnerships with international stakeholders are essential goals for this high-stakes forum.

Ambassador Omar Arouna, the visionary Founder and Board Chair of CCDL, has consistently emphasized that cybersecurity is not solely a technological issue but a matter of national security and economic stability.

“Cybersecurity in Africa isn’t merely a technology concern; it is a fundamental issue of national security and economic stability,” Arouna stated. “With this forum, our goal is to equip African leaders with the insights and alliances they need to defend their digital borders and safeguard their sovereignty in the digital age.”

The forum will bring together representatives from major African regional blocs, such as the East African Community (EAC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Ambassadors from the African Union and cybersecurity experts from the U.S. are also expected to attend, signaling a collective push toward a more unified cyber defense strategy for the continent. More than a conference, the event is a strategic call to action, urging African nations to align their cybersecurity policies to protect their rapidly expanding digital economy.

Dr. Pape Cissé, the CCDL’s Executive Director, underscores the high stakes of this forum. Bringing over 20 years of cybersecurity expertise to the event, Dr. Cissé is clear about the urgency of the issue: “Cyber threats are no longer the future—they’re the present.

This event is about equipping Africa to face those threats head-on and to build resilience into our systems from the top down.” With internet penetration across Africa having surged by over 50% in recent years, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has become essential for economic growth and stability.

One key initiative CCDL will highlight is the Distinguished Diplomacy Cybersecurity Fellowship. This program is designed to train the next generation of African cyber diplomats and cybersecurity professionals, preparing them to engage in international cybersecurity governance and safeguard digital assets at home.

According to Dr. Cissé, “Unity in cyber governance isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential for Africa. When we work together, we protect each other.” By training skilled cybersecurity professionals and fostering cooperation, the fellowship aims to build a resilient network of cyber leaders who will protect Africa’s digital future.

The CCDL’s partnership with George Washington University is instrumental in advancing this educational mission. Through this collaboration, African leaders will have access to top-tier cybersecurity research resources, tailored to address Africa’s unique challenges.

For Ambassador Arouna, who holds an MBA in cybersecurity from George Washington University, the partnership is deeply significant. “This partnership is personal for me,” Arouna told Washington Tech Review.

“I want to bring the highest standards of cybersecurity education to Africa’s leaders, empowering them with the skills they need to protect their nations.” This educational initiative is expected to foster innovative solutions that address Africa’s specific cybersecurity challenges, equipping African leaders with the tools to defend their nations’ digital sovereignty.

Cybersecurity has also become a top priority for investors in African markets. According to a 2024 report by African Business, cybersecurity is now one of the key concerns for those looking to invest in Africa. Ensuring a secure digital environment can enhance investor confidence, which is essential for Africa’s long-term economic growth.

The forum will explore ways to harmonize cybersecurity policies across the continent, creating a cohesive response to digital threats and positioning Africa as a competitive player in the global economy.
Ambassador Arouna and Dr. Cissé view the forum as the beginning of a sustained commitment to cyber resilience across Africa. CCDL’s mission is not only to protect Africa’s digital assets but also to elevate the continent as a leader in cyber diplomacy.

In recent interview with PAV, Ambassador Arouna expressed his long-term vision for the CCDL’s role in shaping Africa’s cybersecurity future. “We aim to expand our programs, build stronger partnerships, and create a robust network of cyber diplomats and professionals. This is just the beginning.”

As Africa’s digital economy continues to grow, the urgency for comprehensive cybersecurity measures becomes even more pressing. The November 7 forum represents a pivotal step in Africa’s journey toward cyber resilience and highlights the continent’s commitment to collaborative and proactive cyber governance.

With knowledge-sharing, strategic alliances, and a unified approach, African leaders are charting a course for the continent’s role in international cybersecurity for years to come. “Africa has an opportunity to lead in cybersecurity,” Ambassador Arouna stated. “By investing in cyber diplomacy, we invest in our future, our security, and our prosperity.”