ICT Company Calls for Robust Cyber Security Law -Says GoL Investment in Cyber Education Imperative

By: H Matthew Turry

The Liberian Information Communication Technology (ICT) group, UHURU Tech Solution, has called on the government of Liberia to invest in cyber security education and robust legislation to address cyber-crimes in Liberia.

Speaking Thursday at a cybersecurity program held in Congo Town October 10, 2024, UHURU Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Foldestine Paye called on the Liberian government to invest in cyber security education to ensure both the youth and adults are equipped with knowledge to navigate the digital landscape safely.

He added that the government of Liberia should establish partnership with educational institutions, technology companies, and international organizations to help develop an effective training program to foster a safe internet environment.

Paye stressed the importance of fostering a culture of cyber security awareness among students to create a safer online environment. By empowering the next generation with the right tools and insights, this initiative seeks to build a proactive community prepared to confront cyber challenges effectively.

“We are calling on the government to pass the cyber security law which in the Telecommunication room, and a robust legislation to address cyber security crimes. We also want to use this medium to call on the Liberia Telecommunication Authority (LTA) to create the Cyber Security Regulatory Framework to protect the people of Liberia in the cyber space”, he urged.

He added by calling on the LTA to set up a Digital Forensic Lab (DFL) and the Cyber Response Unit (CRU) to protect people in the cyber world.

According to the UHURU boss, by establishing these clear policies will not only detect potential threats, but also provide a framework for accountability in committing cyber crimes

Providing the introduction to the program, DMG HR Florence Gaye noted that the symposium is held in commemoration of Cyber security Month, celebrated each October. This global initiative aims to educate individuals and raise awareness about the importance of cyber security.

Foldestine Paye, emphasized the government’s vital role in fostering cyber security. He stated, “We need robust legislation to combat cybercrimes,” highlighting the necessity of legal frameworks to address these challenges effectively.

Paye stressed that collaboration between public and private sectors is crucial for developing comprehensive strategies to combat cyber threats.

Mr. Paye acknowledged the youth as leaders of tomorrow, noting their profound engagement with technology. He stressed that cyber threats are real, stating, from identity theft and cyber bullying to scams and misinformation, the dangers are numerous. He emphasized the importance of people educating themselves about these risks and knowing how to protect personal information.

The Chief Executive urged internet users to use strong, unique passwords, think before sharing, and always question the validity of online sources. He caution by saying, Remember, once information is shared online, it can be challenging to retract

Representing the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), Cllr. T. Emmanuel Tomah recounted by saying, In 2011 the Economic Community of West African States at its Extraordinary Sitting in Abuja, Nigeria adopted nine (9) supplementary acts, three of the nine were; data protection, electronic transaction, and cybercrime act which Liberia is signatory to.

According to him, the supplementary acts adopted in 2011, cover a number of thematic areas that includes, fraudulent access to computer system, fraudulent data remaining in the computer, interference with operations of a computer system, fraudulent intersection of a computer data, among others has ever since serve as guide for Liberia cyber space.

He also said the LTA is partnering with the National Identification Registry (NIR) on SIM card registration to better track cyber activities in the country. This collaboration aims to enhance accountability and security in the telecommunications sector.

Tomah informed the occasion that Liberia has, in line with international protocols and treaties, adapted a supplementary act as a framework for the governance of cyberspace. This approach would ensure that the country’s cyber security policies are aligned with global standards and best practices.

He encouraged participants to be good citizens as they navigate the internet, reminding them of their responsibility in fostering a safe online community.