African tech leaders discuss digital security through AI and cloud computing at Africa Cybersecurity Summit

The African Cybersecurity Summit has convened in Rabat, bringing together high-level stakeholders from across the continent. The summit, organized by the General Directorate of Information Systems Security (DGSSI) in collaboration with Smart Africa, was held under the theme: “Artificial Intelligence and Trusted Cloud, A Pillar for Strengthening Cybersecurity.”

The event, inaugurated in the presence of the Head of Government, saw the participation of over 900 delegates from 29 Arab and African nations, including ministers, directors of national cybersecurity agencies, government officials, and business leaders. Among the distinguished speakers was the Minister of Digital Transformation and Administrative Reform, Amal El Fallah-Seghrouchni, who highlighted Morocco’s advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity while emphasizing the critical role of regional collaboration in securing Africa’s digital future.

In her address, Mrs. Seghrouchni underscored the necessity of investing in cutting-edge technologies, including AI and cloud computing, to safeguard information systems and facilitate a secure digital transformation across the continent. She stressed that Africa’s digital progress hinges on robust cybersecurity measures and international cooperation.

Lacina Koné, CEO of Smart Africa, reinforced this sentiment in his opening remarks, stating, “A digital Africa cannot exist without a secure Africa. Cybersecurity is not an afterthought—it is a fundamental enabler of Africa’s economic ambitions, from the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to cross-border digital services, digital identity, and cloud computing.” His statement resonated with the summit’s broader objective of positioning cybersecurity as a cornerstone of Africa’s digital and economic agenda.

The summit served as a platform for policymakers, cybersecurity experts, and technology leaders to deliberate on strategies to bolster cybersecurity resilience. Discussions centered on enhancing cooperation among African nations, leveraging AI and cloud solutions for cybersecurity, and ensuring that digital infrastructure remains protected against emerging threats.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye