Deputy Minister Mohammed Adams Sukparu Launches National Initiative to Combat Cyber Threats Through Community Media

In a significant move to fortify Ghana’s digital landscape, the Deputy Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovation, Mohammed Adams Sukparu, has launched the National Community Media Cyber Capacity Building Project. Speaking at the launch event in Accra on August 3, 2026, Sukparu asserted that while technological safeguards and legislative frameworks are vital, an informed and vigilant public remains the nation's most potent defense against evolving cyber threats. The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between digital advancement and citizen awareness, positioning community-level engagement as the front line of national cybersecurity.

The project focuses on equipping community journalists with specialized skills to educate the public on "cyber hygiene" and online safety. By leveraging the wide reach of local media, the government aims to tackle the surge in mobile money fraud, identity theft, and the spread of misinformation, particularly in underserved regions. Sukparu emphasized that empowering citizens with knowledge is critical to preventing fraud before it occurs, noting that even the most robust security systems can be bypassed if users are unaware of common digital traps and social engineering tactics.

Supporting this effort, the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) has rallied the media to elevate public education to a national security priority. Director-General Divine Selase Agbeti highlighted that accurate reporting can actively prevent digital incidents and bolster the country's collective resilience. A key component of this initiative is the establishment of a Cyber Security Press Corps, designed to foster closer collaboration between journalists and law enforcement. This collaborative framework is supported by the Africa Centre for Digital Transformation and the Embassy of the Czech Republic, reflecting a multi-stakeholder approach to digital safety.

This capacity-building project is part of the government's broader digital transformation agenda. It complements existing flagship programs such as the One Million Coders Programme and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, both of which aim to provide young Ghanaians with the technical expertise required for the modern economy. By integrating public awareness with high-level technical training, the government aims to create a secure digital environment that fosters innovation while protecting the financial and personal data of all Ghanaians.