Monrovia, Liberia – Liberia’s President Joseph N. Boakai has declared that the country is urgently in need to solve its technology problems, comparing the devastation caused by cybercrime to that of war. At the opening of the Cybersecurity conference in Congo Town on October 9, 2024, with the theme “Secure our World,” President Boakai stated that while technology develops, dishonest people try to impede progress by attacking systems, influencing political outcomes, and defrauding financial institutions.
He claimed that cybercrime has evolved into a highly sophisticated crime that affects many different industries in today’s global society. “Over the past 20 years, there has been a 70% rise in cybersecurity breaches. In 2023, companies reported losses over $2 billion as a result of cyberattacks on their email systems.”
The Liberian leader went on to say that these losses not only hurt individuals and organizations but also help criminals who participate in illegal operations like drug and human trafficking and money laundering. As such, it is critical that the public pay attention to this issue.
Boakai has also urged organizations to give cybersecurity top priority as a key element of their risk mitigation plans, arguing that putting in place the tools, procedures, and guidelines to stop cyberattacks may drastically lessen their effects.
He pointed out that an organization’s computer systems, apps, devices, data, and financial assets are better safeguarded from cyber attacks when cybersecurity is given top priority.
President Boakai recounted that youth empowerment was his top priority when he assumed office a few months ago and addressed the youth population. “This would be done by instituting a national program that would sharpen their abilities to contribute to the herculean task of post-war rebuilding.”
President Boakai, “In furtherance of this ambitious goal, I launched the Digital Transformation Program which targeted the training of the first ten thousand young people to benefit from computer skills. Our youths are smart, and I have no doubt they can pick up quickly.”
He declared that the fight against cybercrime is well under way and doing well. According to the President, putting in place a thorough progression program would enable youth to assume leadership positions in the battle against cybercrime.
In order to protect our cyberspace, he said, the Liberian Telecommunications Authority (LTA) is dedicated to educating and assisting young people in becoming cybersecurity specialists. Given this, we would anticipate receiving regular updates on the state of the digital program across the country.
President Boakai said, the Liberian Legislature is presently debating a law that will boost cybersecurity, fight cybercrime, and safeguard our cyberspace. The President narrated that given the significance and urgency of this bill for our national security, I urge the Legislature to expedite its passage.
“I have faith that this law will enable the required legal steps against cybercrime and help impacted individuals and institutions regain their credibility and sense of confidence. The victims will feel more optimistic that their privacy will be protected going forward.”
Reported by: Prince Saah
Contact: +231778239813
Email: saahprince119@gmail.com
