-CCDL and Partners Launch Strategic Cyber-Leadership Exercise at George Washington University.
By Ajong Mbapndah L
The Center for Cyber Diplomacy & Leadership (CCDL), in partnership with Tech & Media Convergency (TMC) and Tunza Trade, is set to host an exclusive Digital Resilience Simulation and Policy Briefing at The George Washington University School of Business on November 4, 2025.
The closed-door simulation will bring together a high-level delegation of twelve senior Tanzanian policymakers and regulators for a day-long, hands-on exercise focused on strengthening cyber-resilience, governance, and leadership cooperation between Tanzania and the United States.
A Nation on the Frontline of Digital Transformation
Tanzania’s rapid digital transformation — fueled by mobile-money systems, e-government platforms, and AI-driven services — has unlocked major opportunities but also exposed the country to sophisticated cyber threats.
Recent analyses point to AI-enabled scams, deepfakes, IoT vulnerabilities, and disinformation campaigns as rising challenges. In response, Tanzania has launched a five-year national cybersecurity strategy (2023–2028) emphasizing capacity building and regional collaboration to address these emerging threats.
Inside the Simulation
The upcoming interactive tabletop exercise, led by Dr. Pape Cissé, Co-Founder and Executive Director of CCDL, will place Tanzanian delegates in real-time cyber-attack scenarios. Participants will be tasked with managing simulated incidents, coordinating national response mechanisms, and shaping coherent policy reactions.
“This exercise will test how leadership decisions can make or break cyber resilience,” said Dr. Cissé. “Cybersecurity is not just a technical issue — it’s a matter of national security, economic prosperity, and public trust.”
Expert-Led Briefings
Among the featured speakers is Dr. Divine S. Anye, Senior Cybersecurity Advisor to the U.S. Department of State, who will deliver a policy briefing on emerging digital threats, including AI governance, data protection, and critical-infrastructure security.
The event will conclude with closing reflections from Ambassador Omar Arouna, former Beninese Ambassador and Co-Founder & Chairman of CCDL. Ambassador Arouna will emphasize the growing importance of cyber diplomacy and international cooperation in mitigating global digital risks.
Who’s Participating
The Tanzanian delegation will include senior representatives from:
- The Ministry of Communication & Information Technology
- The Public Procurement Regulatory Authority
- KUZA Stem and the Tanzania Startup Association
- Youth Challenges Organization (Zanzibar) and other civil-society leaders
Strengthening U.S.–Africa Cyber Partnerships
The Washington exercise is part of CCDL’s broader initiative to strengthen Africa-U.S. collaboration on digital governance, resilience, and responsible innovation.
While the session is invitation-only, organizers plan to release a post-event briefing summarizing key insights and recommendations for policymakers and digital-governance practitioners across Africa.
About the Partners
The Center for Cyber Diplomacy & Leadership (CCDL) works to advance cyber diplomacy, leadership, and policy innovation through training and high-level simulations. Tech & Media Convergency (TMC) drives digital-transformation advocacy across East Africa, while Tunza Trade supports sustainable tech partnerships and enterprise development.
