By Eric Appah Marfo
Accra, Aug. 4, GNA – Mr Mohammed Adams Sukparu, Deputy Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, has urged journalists to strengthen cybersecurity reporting to promote digital literacy, combat online fraud and support Ghana’s digital transformation agenda.
He said the media had a critical role in improving public understanding of cyber threats, promoting safe online behaviour and strengthening public confidence in digital services.
Mr Sukparu made the call at the launch of the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project (NCMCCBP) in Accra.
“Every accurate report on cybercrime helps protect another citizen. Every public awareness campaign on online fraud can prevent another family from becoming a victim. Every discussion on digital safety contributes to a more resilient nation,” he said.
The project is being implemented by the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) in partnership with the Africa Centre for Digital Transformation (ACDT) and funded by the Government of the Czech Republic.
It seeks to equip community and mainstream media practitioners with the knowledge and skills to educate the public on cyber hygiene, online safety and responsible digital behaviour.
Representing the sector Minister, Mr Samuel Nartey George, the Deputy Minister said the Government remained committed to building a secure, innovative and inclusive digital economy.
He said investments in digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence and digital skills would yield their full benefits only if supported by a secure and trusted cyberspace.
“Digital transformation cannot succeed without trust. Citizens must trust that their personal information is protected. Businesses must trust that digital transactions are secure, and investors must trust that Ghana provides a safe and predictable digital environment,” he said.
Mr Sukparu said flagship initiatives, including the One Million Coders Programme, the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and the Ghana Digital Transformation Project, depended on effective cybersecurity measures for their successful implementation.
He described community media as strategic partners in public cybersecurity education because of their extensive reach, credibility and ability to communicate in local languages.
Mr Divine Selase Agbeti, Director-General of the Cyber Security Authority, said journalists played a vital role in preventing cybercrime by raising awareness of emerging threats and safe online practices.
“They don’t just attack. They study you. They observe what you post, who your family members are, your relationships and your personal interests before striking,” he said.
He advised the public to exercise caution when sharing personal information on digital platforms.
Mr Pavel BĂlek, Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Ghana, said the project formed part of ongoing cooperation between Ghana and the Czech Republic to strengthen cybersecurity, democratic governance and media development.
He reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Ghana through technical cooperation, capacity building and specialised media training to enhance national cyber resilience.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Sackey
Reporter: Eric Appah MarfoÂ
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