Building an Integrated Cyber Defence Capability for African Missions
Abstract:
Cyberspace has been designated by organizations such as NATO as the fifth domain for battlespace, and many nations are already having and/or building their capabilities in the cyber defence environment in order to protect and defend their assets against any onslaught by their adversaries. It is a common belief that many African countries are not well positioned or prepared to respond effectively to cyberattacks against their citizens, critical infrastructure, and government. In many instances, the gap can be traced to the shortage of skills, lack of cybersecurity readiness and preparedness, and lack of investment in cybersecurity programmes, including policies within the military’s strategic, tactical, and operational environments. This paper seeks to present a conceptual approach into how African countries could develop a resilient cyber defence capability in order to effectively respond to constant cyberattacks. The approach is underpinned by an integrated capability management philosophy using case studies in large and complex environments, including strategic and capability development learnings from other military domains outside the African continent. It is envisaged that the output of this paper may influence and support African states in building their cyber defence capabilities in a coordinated and integrated manner.
AUTHORS
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Defence, Peace, Safety, and Security Pretoria,
South Africa
Dr. Jabu Mtsweni is a Head of Information and Cyber Security Centre at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) focusing on secure identity systems, cybersecurity systems, data security and analytics, including governance, privacy, and trust.
Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR),
&
Technology for Special Operations Defence and Security Cluster
Pretoria, South Africa
Mphahlela Thaba is currently employed as the Impact Area Manager for Technologies for Special Operations in the CSIR. Prior to working for the CSIR, he also worked for the Armaments Corporations of South Africa (ARMSCOR), and spent over 11 years as a senior officer in the South African National Defence Force. He holds a Master’s degree in Technology Management.
Published In
Journal of Information Warfare
The definitive publication for the best and latest research and analysis on information warfare, information operations, and cyber crime. Available in traditional hard copy or online.
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