Accra: Mr Mohammed Adams Sukparu, Deputy Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, has urged journalists to strengthen cybersecurity reporting to promote digital literacy, combat online fraud, and support Ghana's digital transformation agenda. He emphasized the media's critical role in improving public understanding of cyber threats, promoting safe online behavior, and strengthening public confidence in digital services. Mr Sukparu made these remarks at the launch of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project (NCMCCBP) in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the project is being implemented by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) in partnership with the Africa Centre for Digital Transformation (ACDT) and funded by the Government of the Czech Republic. It aims to equip community and mainstream media practitioners with the knowledge and skills to educate the public on cyber hygiene, online safety, and responsible digital behavior.
Representing the sector Minister, Mr Samuel Nartey George, the Deputy Minister stated that the Government remains committed to building a secure, innovative, and inclusive digital economy. He highlighted that investments in digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and digital skills would yield their full benefits only if supported by a secure and trusted cyberspace.
Mr Sukparu underscored the importance of trust in digital transformation, stating that citizens must trust that their personal information is protected, businesses must trust that digital transactions are secure, and investors must trust that Ghana provides a safe and predictable digital environment. He noted that flagship initiatives, such as the One Million Coders Programme, the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, and the Ghana Digital Transformation Project, depend on effective cybersecurity measures for successful implementation.
He also highlighted the role of community media as strategic partners in public cybersecurity education due to their extensive reach, credibility, and ability to communicate in local languages. Mr Divine Selase Agbeti, Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the vital role journalists play in preventing cybercrime by raising awareness of emerging threats and safe online practices.
Mr Pavel Blek, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Ghana, noted that the project is part of ongoing cooperation between Ghana and the Czech Republic to strengthen cybersecurity, democratic governance, and media development. He reaffirmed his country's commitment to supporting Ghana through technical cooperation, capacity building, and specialized media training to enhance national cyber resilience.