Africa’s digital world is growing fast. More businesses, banks, and governments are moving online. While this is indeed great progress, it also comes with serious risks. Cybercrime is increasing, but cybersecurity is not getting the attention it deserves.
This leaves people, businesses, and governments exposed to threats that could have devastating financial and reputational consequences.
The rise of cybercrime in Africa is evident in the increasing number of fraud cases. One well-known example is “Yahoo Yahoo,” a term used in Nigeria to describe internet fraud schemes. Scammers engage in various tactics, including romance scams, business email compromise, and cryptocurrency fraud.
A notable case was that of Hushpuppi (Ramon Abbas), a Nigerian fraudster arrested in June 2020 for laundering millions of dollars through cybercrime. His arrest exposed the deep connections between online scams and organized financial fraud worldwide.
To build a strong cybersecurity industry, Africa needs more skilled professionals, security solutions that are researched, designed, and developed within the continent to address its unique digital threats, and stronger laws. Currently, most cybersecurity tools come from foreign companies. While these can help, they are not tailored to Africa’s specific challenges and cannot be a long-term fix.
Sulaimon Adeniji, a cybersecurity expert with multiple certifications, including CISSP, CISA, and CCSP, emphasizes the urgent need for Africa to develop its own cybersecurity infrastructure. With expertise in cloud security, risk management and compliance, he highlights that Africa has many talented young people, but few see cybersecurity as a viable career option.
The lack of training, mentorship, and job opportunities discourages them. Many who develop skills leave for better opportunities abroad, making it harder for Africa to build its own cybersecurity industry. This talent drain has weakened local efforts to combat threats, leaving the continent vulnerable.
“This needs to change,” Adeniji stresses. Schools and training centers should offer more cybersecurity courses, companies should create internship programs, and governments should provide scholarships. Experienced professionals must also mentor young talent, helping them develop both the technical skills and problem-solving mindset needed to tackle security challenges.
Africa’s cybersecurity problems are different from those in places like the U.S., Canada, or China. Issues such as mobile banking fraud, weak IT infrastructure, and low security awareness make cybercrime easier. One major challenge is SIM swap fraud, where criminals hijack victims’ phone numbers to gain access to their banking apps. Another is cryptocurrency scams, where fraudsters trick people into investing in fake schemes. Despite these growing threats, most security tools used in Africa are imported and may not fully address local needs.
Instead of relying only on foreign solutions, Adeniji advocates for investing in local cybersecurity startups. “These companies can create security solutions that work better for African businesses and governments,” he explains. Supporting research, funding local projects, and encouraging tech companies to work with universities will make it easier to create security systems that fit Africa’s specific cybersecurity needs. If Africa develops its own cybersecurity infrastructure, it can reduce dependency on external solutions and create jobs in the process.
Public awareness is just as important. Cybersecurity is not just for IT experts; it affects everyone. Many cybercrimes happen simply because people do not know how to protect themselves. Teaching people how to use strong passwords, avoid scams, and secure their data can prevent many attacks. Awareness campaigns, digital literacy programs, and online safety education should become a priority.
“Africa must take cybersecurity seriously now before a major cyberattack forces action,” Adeniji warns. “The talent is here, the need is urgent, and the risks are real. Cybersecurity is not just about preventing attacks; it is about protecting Africa’s future in the digital world. If we do not take action now, we will face even greater threats in the future.”
The question is, will we act before it is too late?
and then