Despite steep losses suffered across Africa to cyber threats, spending towards the prevention of future cyber-attacks on the continent has not risen to meet the need for greater protection.
In October 2016, 1.5 million customers of Lonestar Cell MTN, a major local telecom service provider in Liberia, were unable to access network services. Internet connection was disconnected, leaving health providers, transportation, and financial institutions cut off from the network. Farmers were unable to check market updates and bank transactions repeatedly failed, which left businesses unable to fulfil demands and customers stranded. The country’s information minister, Eugene Nagbe, though in Paris at the time, attempted to remedy the situation but was unable to access his email or make any phone calls. As a last resort, he made an appeal on French radio, calling for international aid to resolve the issue...
Every year, The Republic publishes the most ambitious writing focused on Africa, from news and analysis to long-form features.
To continue reading this article, Subscribe or Register for a Free Pass.
Already a subscriber? Log in.