IMAGE: NicoElNino via Alamy

By David Sethathi

Introduction

As the world becomes increasingly digitised, cybersecurity continues to pose significant
challenges across the globe. However, various regions encounter distinct challenges and adopt
different strategies to address cyber threats. In Africa, where the digital economy is rapidly
evolving, there are challenges related to inadequate cybersecurity infrastructure, ineffective
enforcement mechanisms, and a prevalent issue of cybercrime. Conversely, the United States,
supported by its sophisticated technology sector, emphasizes cyber awareness, proactive defence
strategies, and comprehensive regulatory frameworks. This article examines the primary
differences in cybersecurity initiatives in Africa and cyber awareness strategies in the U.S.,
evaluating the strengths, weaknesses, and overall effects of these methods.

Cybersecurity in Africa: Landscape, Challenges, and Strengthening Efforts.

Over the past decade, Africa has witnessed a rapid digital transformation, with internet penetration
steadily increasing. However, this digital expansion has led to a rise in cyber threats. According to
INTERPOL, organized crime groups in Africa are exploiting digital tools for various criminal
activities, including financial fraud, ransomware attacks, and identity theft.

One of the main challenges in Africa’s cybersecurity landscape is the lack of comprehensive
cybersecurity laws and regulations. According to Diplo only seven countries in Africa are among
the top 50 countries with the highest cybersecurity indices. While some African countries have
established legal frameworks, enforcement remains weak. The absence of standardized cybercrime
laws across the continent makes it difficult to coordinate cross-border efforts to combat cyber
threats. Furthermore, law enforcement agencies often lack the technical expertise and resources to
investigate and prosecute cybercriminals effectively.

In response to the rising threats, several African countries have begun implementing
cybersecurity initiatives. For instance, Nigeria established the National Cybersecurity Policy and
Strategy (NCPS) which is aimed to address Nigeria’s cybersecurity challenges, enhance digital
competitiveness, improve indigenous technology development and safeguard Nigeria’s Critical
National Information Infrastructure. Similarly, Kenya has taken significant steps by establishing
the National Kenya Computer Incident Response Team (KE-CIRT) to coordinate cyber threat
intelligence (Communications Authority of Kenya).

The African Union (AU) also plays a role in regional cybersecurity through the African Union
Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, also known as the Malabo
Convention. However, adoption has been slow, with only a few countries ratifying the treaty.
Another positive development is public-private partnerships aimed at improving cybersecurity
awareness. Companies such as Kaspersky and Fortinet are collaborating with African
governments to enhance cyber defense mechanisms.

Cyber Awareness Strategies in the U.S.

The United States has one of the most advanced cybersecurity ecosystems globally, with a strong
emphasis on cyber awareness and proactive threat mitigation. The U.S. government, private
sector, and academic institutions work together to develop robust cybersecurity frameworks,
train personnel, and implement nationwide awareness campaigns. The U.S. Department of
Homeland Security (DHS) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
lead numerous cyber awareness campaigns. For example, the National Cyber Awareness System
provides alerts, tips, and best practices to help individuals and organizations safeguard against
cyber threats.

Another major initiative is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM), which is
held every October. Organized by CISA and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA), this
campaign educates businesses and individuals on cybersecurity best practices, including
password management, phishing prevention, and secure online behaviour. The private sector also
plays a crucial role in cybersecurity awareness in the U.S. Technology giants like Google,
Microsoft, and IBM provide cybersecurity training programs and resources for businesses and
individuals. Google’s “Be Internet Awesome” initiative, for instance, educates children on online
safety. Additionally, academic institutions contribute to cybersecurity education. The National
Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has established the Cybersecurity Framework, a
widely adopted guideline for organizations to manage cybersecurity risks.

The FBI and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) actively combat cybercrime through public
awareness campaigns and fraud reporting mechanisms. Moreover, cybersecurity policies such as
the Cybersecurity Act of 2015 emphasize information sharing between the government and
private sector to enhance threat intelligence. The U.S. also leads in international cyber
diplomacy, collaborating with other nations through initiatives like the Budapest Convention on
Cybercrime, which promotes global cooperation in investigating cyber threats.

Comparative Analysis: Africa vs. the U.S.

Africa experiences a high prevalence of cyber fraud, data breaches, and ransomware attacks due
to weak cybersecurity infrastructure. In contrast, the U.S. faces advanced persistent threats
(APTs) from nation-state actors, targeting critical infrastructure and intellectual property. The
U.S. government has a well-established cybersecurity framework, with agencies such as CISA
and NIST providing extensive guidelines and awareness programs. Africa, on the other hand,
lacks a unified regulatory approach, with many countries still developing national cybersecurity
strategies.

Cyber awareness is a key focus in the U.S., with nationwide campaigns educating citizens on
cybersecurity best practices. Africa, while making progress, still lags in public awareness, and
many users remain vulnerable to phishing attacks and online fraud. Law enforcement agencies in
the U.S. have advanced capabilities to investigate and prosecute cybercriminals. The FBI, for
example, operates the Internet Crime Complaint Centre (IC3) to track cyber fraud. African law
enforcement agencies, however, struggle with limited resources and expertise, although
initiatives like the Africa Cyber Surge Operation are making strides in combating cybercrime.

Conclusion

Cybersecurity remains a growing concern globally, but the approaches in Africa and the U.S.
differ significantly. While the U.S. focuses on cyber awareness, proactive defence mechanisms,
and strict enforcement, Africa is still in the early stages of developing comprehensive
cybersecurity policies and response strategies. However, initiatives by INTERPOL, AFRIPOL,
and national governments signal progress in strengthening Africa’s cyber resilience. Moving
forward, Africa could benefit from adopting elements of the U.S. cyber awareness model while
investing in stronger regulatory frameworks and capacity-building programs.