Experts Urge Liberia to Implement Immediate Cybersecurity Regulations

Amid escalating concerns regarding the vulnerability of Liberia's communications sector to cyber threats, experts are urgently advocating for the swift establishment of comprehensive cybersecurity regulations and policies. This call to action follows a three-day cybersecurity awareness conference organized by the Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), aimed at shedding light on the myriad dangers posed by cybercrime, both locally and globally.

During the conference, stakeholders, including government officials, business leaders, and members of civil society, came together to emphasize the critical importance of cybersecurity. They collectively stressed that safeguarding the nation’s digital infrastructure necessitates collaborative efforts from all segments of society. "Cybersecurity is everyone's business," declared Mark Kamara, a Cybersecurity Expert and Consultant. He underscored the necessity for a united front among government agencies, businesses, and civil society to bolster defenses against the burgeoning threats posed by cybercriminals.

Currently, Liberia lacks a comprehensive framework for cybersecurity, leaving its digital landscape alarmingly exposed to potential cyberattacks. Kamara pointed out that this regulatory void has rendered individuals, businesses, and essential institutions vulnerable to various online risks, including data breaches, hacking, and identity theft. "There is an urgent need for Liberia to establish a national cybersecurity framework," he emphasized. "Without the right policies in place, we are all at risk. The government must engage the national legislature to move forward with these protections."

The conference participants advocated for Liberia to leverage international partnerships to enhance its cybersecurity capabilities. They suggested that collaboration with countries that have successfully implemented cybersecurity frameworks could provide invaluable insights and strategies. An international cybersecurity consultant remarked, "We don't need to do this alone. Liberia can benefit from the experiences of other nations, learning from their challenges and successes."

A significant recommendation from the conference involved tapping into the expertise of qualified Liberians in the diaspora, particularly those with backgrounds in cybersecurity. Attendees proposed that experienced Liberians living abroad, especially in the United States and other countries, could play a crucial role in capacity-building efforts. "It is crucial that we invest in building local capabilities," stated Vivien Jones, CEO of MWETANA. "Cybersecurity should not be seen as an impossible challenge. With the right investments in training, technology, and infrastructure, we can make progress."

In addition to enhancing local expertise, Jones advocated for the establishment of baseline security standards for both public and private sectors to ensure compliance with national cybersecurity protocols. She called for a coordinated approach to national cyber defense, emphasizing that structured accountability and proper resource allocation are essential for strengthening Liberia’s cybersecurity posture. "Liberia's cybersecurity is still in its infancy, but that doesn't mean we should be overwhelmed by the task ahead," another expert elaborated. "We need to take small, strategic steps to build a solid foundation. It's about starting somewhere."

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and geopolitical tensions evolve, participants at the conference underscored that fortifying Liberia's cybersecurity infrastructure is not merely about protecting digital assets; it is also a critical element of national security. By enhancing the country's ability to withstand cyber threats, Liberia can better safeguard its economic stability and social cohesion.

In her closing remarks, Angela Cassell Bush, Acting Commissioner for International Gateway Services at the LTA, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the conference's success. "We extend our deepest thanks and appreciation to all participants, experts, panelists, and stakeholders who contributed to this important dialogue on cybersecurity," she said. The conference, themed "Secure Our World," not only focused on technical discussions but also celebrated local culture, featuring cultural exchanges, spoken word performances, and refreshments, including traditional beverages like fresh coconut water, lemongrass, and Bissap.

Bush concluded by expressing optimism for Liberia's digital security future, stating, "We look forward to continuing the journey of building a safer digital future for Liberia." Her remarks resonated with the collective commitment to enhancing cybersecurity and fostering a safer digital landscape for all Liberians. The conference marked a pivotal moment in Liberia's ongoing efforts to confront cyber threats and build resilience in its digital infrastructure.