Accra: Madam Francesca Quirke, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion Specialist at TAG International, a global security and resilience consultancy, has emphasized the need for balanced female representation in cybersecurity decision-making processes to foster a fairer and more secure digital environment. She highlighted that the disparities experienced in the physical world are being mirrored in the digital realm, often leaving women and other vulnerable groups exposed to exclusion and online violence.
According to Ghana News Agency, Madam Quirke stressed the importance of creating opportunities for women to thrive and contribute meaningfully to cyberspace during her remarks at the Cyber Security 360 Workshop in Accra. The three-day event, organized by Women in Cyber Security (WiCyS) West Africa Affiliate, is part of Ghana's National Cyber Security Awareness Month and focuses on "Building a safe, informed and accountable digital space-Strengthening Our Human Firewall." Supported by TAG International through the UK Government's FCDO Africa Cyber Programme, the workshop aims to develop critical skills in identifying misinformation and enhancing cyber resilience.
Madam Quirke noted that while the digital era presents immense opportunities for social and economic growth, these can only be equitably realized when women and underrepresented groups are integrated into the systems governing cyberspace. She called for addressing inequalities to create a diverse and secure digital world, emphasizing the need to identify who is being silenced and excluded from leadership opportunities.
She advocated for women's involvement to extend beyond participation to leadership roles, where their perspectives can shape cybersecurity frameworks and digital safety policies. She also underscored the role of men as allies in promoting gender inclusion within the digital ecosystem.
TAG International, through the Africa Cyber Programme funded by UKAID, is supporting government initiatives to enhance cybersecurity across the continent with a focus on gender equality and social inclusion. Madam Quirke highlighted the commitment of FCDO and TAG International to incorporate gender equality and social inclusion in cybersecurity efforts.
She also addressed the importance of tackling gender biases from early childhood, noting that cultural perceptions about boys and girls influence their engagement with technology and caregiving roles later in life. Empowering both genders with equal opportunities would enable them to share responsibilities and support each other in various spheres.
Day one of the WiCyS workshop included discussions on promoting gender-responsive approaches to digital transformation. A panel titled "The Human Firewall: Why People Are the First Line of Defence" featured industry experts who encouraged participants, especially women, to pursue personal development to seize opportunities in cyberspace. Participants were also urged to promote cybersecurity awareness through relatable campaigns using local languages and practical illustrations.