Cybersecurity in the Military: Protecting Ghana from Digital Threats

In today’s world, wars are no longer just fought on land, sea, and air—they are waged in cyberspace. With cybercriminals constantly finding new ways to attack, Ghana is stepping up its defenses to protect both its military and its people.

Cyberattacks can cripple entire economies, steal sensitive government data, and even threaten national security. Recognizing these dangers, the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) is launching the Directorate of Cyber and Electronic Warfare Operations to fortify its digital defenses. Vice Admiral (V/Adm) Seth Amoama (Rtd) – then Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS), GAF, put it best:

“We have a responsibility to protect our data, networks, and communications infrastructure.”

With cybercrime skyrocketing across Africa, Ghana is not waiting to become a target—it is taking bold steps to strengthen its cybersecurity now.

Ghana’s Rise as a Cybersecurity Leader in Africa

Ghana is quickly establishing itself as a cybersecurity powerhouse in Africa. It is one of only 14 African nations to sign the African Union Convention on Cyber Security and Personal Data Protection, ranking third in Africa on the Global Cybersecurity Index, just behind Mauritius and Tanzania. This is a significant leap forward, considering that Ghana ranked 11th in 2017.

The Joint Cybersecurity Committee, established in 2020, plays a crucial role in monitoring cyber threats, while the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) ensures businesses and government agencies follow strict cybersecurity regulations. Ghana isn’t just protecting itself—it’s leading the way for other African nations to do the same.

The Rising Threat of Cybercrime in Ghana

Despite its cybersecurity achievements, Ghana still faces a growing cybercrime crisis. The Bank of Ghana reported that cybercriminals stole over $4 million in just the first half of 2023, and in 2021, cybercrime cost Ghanaians a staggering $9.4 million.

With 68% of the population (23 million Ghanaians) online, hackers have more opportunities than ever to exploit unsuspecting users. Some of the biggest threats include:

• Phishing Scams – Cybercriminals send fake emails or links to trick people into giving away personal information.
• Financial Fraud – Fraudsters infiltrate banking systems to steal money.
• Identity Theft – Criminals use stolen personal details for illegal activities.

Cybersecurity expert Samuel Sarfo warns that many Ghanaians aren’t fully aware of the dangers lurking online, making them easy targets for scammers. Education is key to reducing cyber threats, and Ghana is actively working to boost public awareness.

The Fight Against Cybercrime in the Financial Sector

Ghana’s financial industry has become a prime target for cybercriminals, but the Bank of Ghana is fighting back. It launched the Financial Industry Command Security Operations Centre (FICSOC), a high-tech system that allows banks and financial institutions to share real-time intelligence on cyber threats.

Additionally, the Bank of Ghana’s Cybersecurity Directive forces banks, FINTECH (financial technology) companies, and mobile money operators to follow strict cybersecurity guidelines. These measures are making it much harder for cybercriminals to exploit Ghana’s financial systems.

Maritime Cybersecurity: Protecting Ghana’s Waters

Cybersecurity threats don’t stop on land—they extend to Ghana’s 225,000 square kilometers of ocean territory. The Ghana Navy is rolling out a new over-the-horizon radar system, which can track ships far beyond the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Ghana’s past Chief of Naval Staff – V/Adm Issah Adam Yakubu, calls this new system a “game changer” because it allows the Navy to detect suspicious vessels, even when criminals turn off their tracking systems, to evade detection.

This cutting-edge surveillance system helps Ghana fight:

1. Piracy – Protecting commercial vessels from attacks.
2. Illegal Fishing – Stopping foreign vessels from exploiting Ghana’s marine resources.
3. Smuggling & Human Trafficking – Preventing criminals from using Ghana’s waters for illicit activities.

By combining maritime security with cybersecurity, Ghana is ensuring that its waters remain safe and its blue economy, and the main economy are protected.

Building a Cyber-Savvy Military

To stay ahead of cyber threats, Ghana is investing in education and training for its military personnel. Former President Nana Akufo-Addo unveiled plans for a National Defence University, to offer Master’s and PhD programs in cybersecurity, defence studies, and national security.

This initiative will train:

• Military Officers – Enhancing their ability to combat cyber warfare.
• Government Officials – Equipping them with cybersecurity knowledge to protect national infrastructure.
• International Students – Strengthening Africa’s cybersecurity landscape through collaboration.

Additionally, the National College of Defence Studies (NCDS) and the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College – constituents of Ghana’s NDU, will provide advanced training for military leaders and cybersecurity specialists.

According to NCDS Commandant – Major General (Maj Gen) Irvine Aryeetey, the institution will be “more than just a place of learning—it will be a symbol of our commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s sovereignty and digital future”.

Conclusion

Cyber threats will continue to evolve, but Ghana is taking proactive steps to stay ahead. With bold strategies, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained professionals, the country is well on course to becoming a global leader in cybersecurity.

In this new era of digital warfare, Ghana isn’t just defending itself—it’s shaping the future of cybersecurity across Africa.