ZAMBIA FORTIFIES ITS DIGITAL WALLS

 THE Country is building a stronger defense against cyber threats, with Technology and Science minister Felix Mutati calling for increased cyber security expertise.

This move aims to create a safe haven for Zambians in the vast digital landscape.

This morning, the minister held a meeting with a team from Kaspersky, an award winning cyber security company offering premium protection against all cyber threats.

The courtesy call to the minister came as an opportunity for the IT company to also give an update on its global works against cyber crimes.

During the meeting, Mutati informed guests of Government's compelling initiatives and efforts in digitisation through its ‘paint Zambia digital campaign’ in order to drive the country’s economy digitally, while attracting more investments.

“Knowing that Kaspersky works beyond just producing anti-virus from computers, I asked the team for capacity building so that we can have a safe cyberspace for our citizens,” said Mutati.

Currently, Government through the ministry of Technology and Science among many other projects is working on digitalising all public schools by way of connecting them to StarLink.

As at now, schools such as Kalomo Secondary school already have access to it, while the installation of network towers in all parts of rural areas in the country stands at 80 percent.

Mutati said these efforts are all concentrated at ensuring that Zambia does not only graduate pupils equipped with the general school knowledge, but those that can tackle society challenges positively using technology as the time demands.

Also present in the meeting was Technology and Science Permanent Secretary Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, who bemoaned the financial threats that come with cyber hackers, adding that Zambia needs a system that can completely shutdown scammers and bring them to books.

He said this success story can only be written once private companies, both local and international such as Kaspersky come to partner with Government in one common fight.

Meanwhile, Kaspersky director for government affairs and public policy, Genie Sugene Gan thanked Mutati and Habeenzu for the welcome, stating that his company is more than ready to collaborate with Zambian banks and law enforcement agencies to fight cyber-attacks.

She added that Africa's vulnerability to cyber attacks and scams can be because of the number of threats the continent is receiving on an annual basis which are many.

By Buumba Mwitumwa

Kalemba May 13, 2024