Blog - 1 in 15 African Businesses Will Be Hacked – Two U.S. Navy Veterans Launch Groundbreaking Cybersecurity Initiative in Ghana

1 in 15 African Businesses Will Be Hacked – Two U.S. Navy Veterans Launch Groundbreaking Cybersecurity Initiative in Ghana


 

FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE


Accra, Ghana – September 26, 2024 — In a press statement to DAME Media And PR Solutions, United States military veterans have announced the launch of a groundbreaking cybersecurity initiative in Ghana, West Africa. In a bold move to address Africa’s escalating cybersecurity challenges, Krafo Systems, co-founded by two U.S. Navy veterans with over 40 years of combined experience, is introducing a comprehensive Cybersecurity Capacity-Building Initiative across the continent.

Set to begin in October, during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the initiative aims to equip African businesses, organizations, and individuals with essential skills to combat growing cyber threats.

The initiative will kick off with the Cybersecurity Capacity Building Course (CCBC), offering both virtual and in-person classes tailored to Africa's rapidly growing digital ecosystem. The program also features the Cyber Defenders Sponsorship Program and Cybersecurity Internships and Job Opportunities, providing participants with financial aid and career pathways in the cybersecurity field.

With African businesses increasingly at risk, including the alarming statistic that 1 in 15 businesses is being targeted by cybercriminals, the initiative couldn't be timelier. Globally, 1 in every 30 businesses experiences cyberattacks, and a staggering 90% of all data breaches are preventable, with human error as the leading cause. These statistics underscore the critical need for enhanced cybersecurity measures across Africa.

“The current state of cybersecurity in Africa is alarming,” says Mamaga Ami Fafali, co-founder of Krafo Systems. “It is disheartening to see people suffering from preventable issues that could be solved with simple awareness exercises. This initiative is our way of addressing that gap.”

Course Highlights:

  • Cybersecurity Capacity Building Course (CCBC): Offers foundational and advanced training, equipping participants with the skills needed to secure digital environments.
  • Cyber Defenders Sponsorship Program: Financial support for participants, particularly those from underrepresented groups, ensuring access to vital training.
  • Cybersecurity Internships and Job Opportunities: Provides career pathways for graduates of the course within Africa’s rapidly expanding cybersecurity sector.

Why Africa Needs This Initiative Now
Africa is home to one of the fastest-growing digital ecosystems globally, with the rapid expansion of mobile banking and digital transactions. However, this growth has also led to increasing cyber threats. “Cybercrime has evolved into a highly sophisticated industry,” explains Komla Elikem, “African businesses must equip themselves with the skills to defend against these threats.”

Recent research by Check Point revealed that Africa experienced a 23% increase in cyberattacks per organization in 2023, the highest globally. The top threats include ransomware, business email compromise (BEC), and phishing scams.

“Too many cyber incidents are avoidable,” adds Komla Elikem. “A lack of basic cyber hygiene is putting African businesses at unnecessary risk. Our initiative aims to give these businesses the knowledge and tools to protect themselves, their clients, and their countries.”

The Need for Cyber Awareness in Africa
Cybercrime costs African businesses millions annually, and the lack of cybersecurity infrastructure leaves many nations vulnerable. Given that 90% of data breaches are caused by human error, basic awareness and training are critical.

The CCBC will address these shortcomings, covering essential topics like incident response, business continuity, disaster recovery, and ransomware prevention. Each session will feature practical exercises and real-life case studies specifically tailored to African challenges, ensuring that participants are well-prepared to tackle both local and global threats.

About Krafo Systems
Krafo Systems, based in Accra, Ghana, was founded by two U.S. Navy veterans with a mission to "Connect and Protect." The company provides cutting-edge cybersecurity training and solutions for African businesses, governments, and individuals. With decades of combined experience, the Krafo Systems team is dedicated to developing the next generation of African cyber defenders.

Launch Event
The Cybersecurity Capacity Building Course will begin in Accra, Ghana, on October 3, 2024. Early bird pricing ended on September 27, 2024, however, participants who locked in the price will receive special discounts.

Register Here: https://selar.co/CCBC

The next few sign-ups will also receive a complimentary Krafo Systems Power Bank, while supplies last.

For more information or to register for the CCBC, visit krafosystems.com or contact info@krafosystem.com.

For Media Inquiries:
Ndali Modebe
DAME Media Solutions
www.damemediasolutions.com