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Ministry urges joint action to build secure digital ecosystem
ADDIS ABABA – As the magnitude of cyber-attacks grows alongside emerging technologies, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology (MInT) has called on private technology organizations to collaborate in creating a secure digital ecosystem.
Speaking at the International Conference on Collaboration in Cyber-security and Digital Transformation, MInT State Minister Fozia Amin (PhD) stated that the government is implementing both long- and short-term initiatives to build a society that is secure and digitally advanced.
To achieve this goal, solutions must be nurtured by all local stakeholders, she remarked.
Innovation is essential to stay ahead of ever-evolving cyber threats. In this regard, homegrown talents need to be cultivated, and research projects supporting innovative cyber-security solutions should be encouraged, the State Minister added.
She explained that adopting a paradigm of “cyber-security by design” means integrating security principles and frameworks into systems from the earliest stages of design through implementation and operation.
According to her, this approach not only defends against threats but also builds trust among users, investors, classrooms, and institutions alike. When people and organizations feel secure in their digital engagements, they are more likely to embrace the digital economy enthusiastically.
She further emphasized that the responsibility for realizing a secure digital ecosystem cannot rest on a single ministry, agency, or nation. Cyber-security inherently requires coordination among diverse stakeholders, both nationally and globally.
She also highlighted the importance of cross-border collaboration, stating that it is essential for success in cyber-security. Within and beyond Ethiopia’s borders, the government is forging partnerships to share resources, knowledge, and best practices.
The Ethiopian Cyber Security Association President, Birhanu Beyene (PhD), also pointed out that the ongoing digital development race is threatened by cyber-attacks, necessitating collaboration and continuous engagement among stakeholders.
He added that, recognizing the need to produce skilled cyber-security professionals, the Association is working to establish a center of excellence.
Panelists who presented their perspectives at the conference also emphasized the need to strengthen cyber-security infrastructure as the issue gains prominence globally.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 14 JUNE 2025
