ACCRA: Ghana's Minister for Communications and Digitalisation, Ursula Owusu-Ekuful, emphasized the importance of utilizing industry forums to foster a cybersecurity culture aimed at securing and strengthening Ghana's digital landscape. The initiative is part of the country's broader efforts to build a collaborative defense against cyber threats. According to Ghana News Agency, Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful highlighted that the newly launched Cybersecurity Industry Forum serves as a collaborative platform for government, private sector, and civil society stakeholders. It is designed to facilitate the exchange of best practices, strategies, and insights on cybersecurity, thereby enhancing organizational defenses. The forum's establishment aligns with Section 81(1) of the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), and coincides with the inauguration of the first cohort of 18 Independent Assessors in Accra. The Independent Assessors, comprising accredited cybersecurity professionals, will support the Cyber Security Authority (CSA ) in developing Ghana's cybersecurity ecosystem within a collaborative regulatory framework. Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful noted that Ghana has made significant progress in cybersecurity since 2017 when the Ministry was tasked with overseeing the nation's cybersecurity development. Key interventions have included the Safer Digital Ghana Campaign, the passage of the Cybersecurity Act, and the establishment of the CSA. Ghana's Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) score improved from 32.6 percent in 2017 to 99.27 percent in the latest edition released by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Despite these advancements, Mrs. Owusu-Ekuful acknowledged ongoing challenges and urged stakeholders to contribute their expertise to further develop Ghana's cybersecurity framework. Dr. Albert Antwi-Boasiako, Director-General of the CSA, stated that as cyber threats become more sophisticated, collective national responsibility is essential to protect digital assets and infrastructure. The forum is seen as the beginning of a lo ng-term partnership to drive policy, standards, and technological advancements. It allows the industry to nominate representatives to the Authority's governing body, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and collaboration. Dr. Antwi-Boasiako reported that the CSA has registered 266 CSPs, 73 CEs, and 1,677 CPs. The Independent Assessors' involvement advances the CSA's mission by providing independent evaluations and recommendations. The forum's ability to create industry codes aims to guide practices, promote self-regulation, and enhance national cybersecurity standards, fostering public trust.