Ivory Coast’s cybersecurity strategy (2021-2025)

The ‘Stratégie Nationale de Cybersécurité 2021-2025’ for Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) cybersecurity strategy (2021-2025) is a comprehensive plan designed to enhance the country’s cybersecurity framework. This strategy is critical for establishing Côte d’Ivoire as a digital hub in West Africa.

The strategy was initiated due to the increasing cyber threats and the need to secure the digital transformation of Côte d’Ivoire. The country’s ambition is to accelerate its digital economy while ensuring the security of its cyberspace, thereby fostering a trustworthy environment for technological innovation and development.

Key Objectives and Specific Goals

The strategy outlines several strategic objectives, each with specific goals to achieve a secure cyber environment:

1. Strengthen the Legal Framework

To optimise and operationalise the legal framework, the strategy focuses on:

• Updating existing laws and regulations related to cybersecurity.
• Ensuring the legal provisions are effectively implemented across all sectors.

2. Protect the Cyberspace

The protection of cyberspace involves:

• Establishing mechanisms for incident detection and response.
• Developing and operationalising a national crisis management plan.
• Securing government information systems and critical infrastructures.

3. Enhance Digital Trust

To bolster trust in digital services, the strategy aims to:

• Safeguard user data through robust data protection measures.
• Improve the security of online services and platforms.

4. Restructure the Institutional Framework

A key component is the establishment of an optimal governance framework, which includes:

• Creating a dedicated national cybersecurity agency.
• Implementing security standards and norms across public and private sectors.

5. Strengthen Human Capital

Developing cybersecurity capabilities is crucial, focusing on:

• Increasing cybersecurity training and education.
• Promoting continuous awareness and research initiatives.

6. Enhance International Cooperation

International collaboration is vital, and the strategy includes:

• Active participation in regional and international cybersecurity initiatives.
• Ratification and implementation of key international conventions, such as the Budapest and Malabo Conventions.

Vision and Principles

The vision articulated in the strategy is to make Côte d’Ivoire a leader in cybersecurity in Africa. The principles guiding this vision include shared responsibility, innovation, adherence to legal standards, and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. Additionally, continuous improvement and a risk-based approach are emphasised to adapt to evolving cyber threats.

Implementation and Monitoring

The strategy will be implemented by the National Cybersecurity Agency, which will oversee various projects and reforms. Regular evaluations and updates every five years are planned to ensure the strategy remains effective and responsive to new challenges.

Action Plan

The action plan includes:

• Establishing a national cybersecurity roadmap.
• Conducting legal framework optimisation studies.
• Developing national plans for protecting critical infrastructures and managing crises.
• Formalising a network of cybersecurity focal points within public administration.
• Launching a forensic laboratory and national cybersecurity drills platform.

By following these steps, Côte d’Ivoire aims to create a secure and resilient cyberspace, supporting its digital transformation goals and establishing itself as a cybersecurity leader in the region .