First Africa IGF opens with calls for enhanced collaboration to tackle cyber crime

Abstract

Following the successful hosting of the five sub-regional Internet Governance Forums or IGFs by the respective sub-regions, the inaugural Africa Internet Governance Forum (AfrIGF) opened today amidst calls for increased partnership and collaboration to curb cyber crime and enhance online security in the continent. In his opening address Egypt’s ICT Minister, Mr. Hany Mahmoud noted that enhancing security and building confidence and trust in the use of ICT applications is one of the “most important emerging issues that are threatening the ICT sector worldwide.” “Collaboration of regional and international efforts from all stakeholders involved is much needed. In this respect, Egypt has established its national CERT and we are ready to discuss together policy challenges and find ways for cross-border cooperation on cybersecurity. As well, openness and free flow of information should be maintained in way that preserves the stability and robustness of the global Internet,” said Mr. Mahmoud.