Fatshimetrie, your digital news magazine, takes you to the heart of cybersecurity and digital sovereignty issues in the DRC and Africa. The opening of the Africa Cyber Trust, a landmark event held at the Fleuve Congo Hotel on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, highlighted the robustness of the Congolese banking sector in the face of cyberattacks, but also the persistent challenges in digital sovereignty and connectivity on the continent.
Securing banking operations in the DRC is a crucial point, as evidenced by Valérie Kitombole, Head of the Security and Information Systems Department at BGFIBank. She emphasizes the use of advanced technologies such as antiviruses, regular updates and intrusion tests to protect customers of Congolese banking institutions. However, despite these advances, vulnerabilities persist, highlighting the need for constant vigilance and strategic partnerships to strengthen cybersecurity.
At the same time, the challenge of digital sovereignty in the DRC remains a major issue. Experts agree that the country has not yet achieved sufficient technological autonomy. Digital sovereignty, defined as the ability to control one’s digital sphere independently, is essential to ensure strategic autonomy and freedom of choice in national technological decisions.
In Africa, the situation is alarming. Only half of the population has access to 4G Internet, highlighting a major connectivity challenge. In addition, the continent has a very limited number of data centers, highlighting a structural delay in digital infrastructure. Yet, the future of economic competitiveness in Africa relies on improved connectivity and data security.
In the face of these challenges, it is imperative for the DRC and Africa as a whole to strengthen their digital capacities. A sovereign and secure digital ecosystem is essential to ensure the economic resilience and prosperity of the continent. It is time to take concrete measures to ensure cybersecurity, strengthen connectivity and promote digital sovereignty in Africa.
Fatshimetrie remains on the lookout for the evolution of these crucial issues and will continue to inform you about the latest advances in cybersecurity and digital sovereignty in Africa. Stay connected to not miss any of the digital news that is shaping our modern world.